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 a new diagnosis of hypothyroidism is being taught about medication management. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You should take your medication with a high-fiber meal.
• B. You should take your medication on an empty stomach.
• C. You should take your medication with a calcium supplement.
• D. You should take your medication before bedtime.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'You should take your medication on an empty stomach.' When educating a client with hypothyroidism, it is essential to advise taking thyroid medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption and effectiveness. Taking the medication with food, especially high-fiber or with supplements like calcium, can interfere with absorption and reduce its efficacy. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to follow the recommendation of taking the medication on an empty stomach. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because taking the medication with a high-fiber meal (Choice A) or with a calcium supplement (Choice C) can hinder absorption, and taking it before bedtime (Choice D) does not optimize absorption compared to taking it on an empty stomach.

3. During an admission interview, a nurse is assessing a client's personal identity. Which of the following questions should the nurse ask?

• A. What is your marital status?
• B. How would you describe yourself?
• C. Are you employed?
• D. Do you have any children?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When assessing personal identity, it is important to ask questions that prompt clients to describe themselves. Question B, 'How would you describe yourself?' is the most appropriate as it allows the client to share their own perceptions and characteristics, aiding in understanding their personal identity. Choices A, C, and D are more focused on specific personal details such as marital status, employment status, and parental status, which do not directly contribute to understanding personal identity.

4. When teaching a client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus about foot care, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Soak your feet in hot water every day.
• B. Apply lotion between your toes.
• C. Inspect your feet daily.
• D. Use over-the-counter products to remove corns.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Inspecting the feet daily is crucial for clients with diabetes mellitus to detect early signs of injury or infection promptly. This practice helps prevent serious complications such as diabetic foot ulcers. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to skin dryness and increase the risk of injury. Applying lotion between toes can cause moisture buildup, leading to fungal infections. Using over-the-counter products to remove corns can result in skin damage and should be done under healthcare provider supervision.

5. A client has a new prescription for digoxin, and a nurse is providing teaching. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take my pulse before taking this medication.
• B. I will take this medication with an antacid.
• C. I will double the dose if I miss one.
• D. I will avoid eating bananas.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because taking the pulse before administering digoxin is crucial as the medication can cause bradycardia. Monitoring the pulse helps in identifying any signs of bradycardia, a common side effect of digoxin. Options B, C, and D are incorrect. Taking digoxin with an antacid may interfere with its absorption. Doubling the dose if a dose is missed can lead to overdose and adverse effects. Avoiding bananas is not specifically related to digoxin therapy.

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