Nursing Elites

1. A client has major fecal incontinence and reports irritation in the perianal area. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Apply a fecal collection system
• B. Apply a barrier cream
• C. Cleanse and dry the area
• D. Check the client's perineum

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client with major fecal incontinence reports irritation in the perianal area, the nurse's initial action should be to assess the client's perineum to gather more information. By checking the perineum, the nurse can identify the extent and nature of the irritation, allowing for appropriate interventions to be initiated. This assessment is crucial in developing a comprehensive care plan and addressing the client's immediate needs effectively. Applying the nursing process priority-setting framework helps in planning care and prioritizing nursing actions, making assessment the initial step in this scenario. Applying a fecal collection system (choice A) would be premature without assessing the perineal area first. Similarly, applying a barrier cream (choice B) or cleansing and drying the area (choice C) should follow the assessment to ensure appropriate interventions are chosen based on the assessment findings.

2. A client with dysphagia and at risk for aspiration needs care planning. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Encourage the client to drink thickened liquids.
• B. Instruct the client to swallow with chin tucked.
• C. Provide the client with a cup with a lid.
• D. Place the client in Fowler's position for meals.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Placing the client in Fowler's position is crucial in preventing aspiration as it helps maintain an open airway and reduces the risk of food or liquid entering the lungs during swallowing. This position promotes safer swallowing and minimizes the chances of aspiration pneumonia. Choices A, B, and C are less effective interventions for preventing aspiration. Encouraging the client to drink thickened liquids may help, but the position is more critical. Instructing the client to swallow with chin tucked is beneficial for some individuals but not as effective as positioning. Providing a cup with a lid does not directly address the risk of aspiration associated with dysphagia.

3. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Encourage pursed-lip breathing.
• B. Administer oxygen at 6 L/min via nasal cannula.
• C. Place the client in a supine position.
• D. Restrict fluid intake to less than 1,500 mL/day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging pursed-lip breathing is essential for clients with COPD as it aids in improving ventilation and gas exchange. This technique helps keep the airways open longer during exhalation, preventing air trapping and promoting more effective breathing. Administering oxygen, placing the client in a supine position, or restricting fluid intake are not primary interventions for managing COPD and may not address the specific respiratory needs of the client.

4. What is the primary purpose of therapeutic communication in healthcare?

• A. To gather client information.
• B. To provide client education.
• C. To establish a therapeutic relationship.
• D. To document client care.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of therapeutic communication in healthcare is to establish a therapeutic relationship between the healthcare provider and the client. Through effective communication, trust, empathy, and understanding can be fostered, which are essential for providing quality care and promoting positive health outcomes. Building a therapeutic relationship enhances patient satisfaction, improves adherence to treatment plans, and increases the likelihood of successful health outcomes.

5. A client has a new diagnosis of hyperlipidemia and is receiving teaching from a nurse about dietary management. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You should increase your intake of trans fats.
• B. You should decrease your intake of fiber-rich foods.
• C. You should avoid foods that are high in cholesterol.
• D. You should increase your intake of high-fat foods.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement the nurse should include in teaching the client with hyperlipidemia is to avoid foods that are high in cholesterol. Foods high in cholesterol, like those high in saturated and trans fats, can contribute to elevated lipid levels and increase cardiovascular risk. Decreasing intake of these foods can help improve lipid profiles and reduce the risk of complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because increasing intake of trans fats, decreasing fiber-rich foods, and increasing intake of high-fat foods can exacerbate hyperlipidemia and worsen the lipid profile.

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