Nursing Elites

1. A client with severe preeclampsia is receiving magnesium sulfate IV at 2 g/hr. Which of the following findings indicates that it is safe to continue the infusion?

• A. Diminished deep-tendon reflexes
• B. Respiratory rate of 16/min
• C. Urine output of 50 mL in 4 hours
• D. Heart rate of 56/min

Correct answer: Respiratory rate of 16/min

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 16/min within the normal range is an essential parameter to monitor when administering magnesium sulfate, as respiratory depression is a potential adverse effect. Diminished deep-tendon reflexes may indicate magnesium toxicity, warranting immediate intervention. A urine output of 50 mL in 4 hours is below the expected amount, suggesting decreased kidney perfusion, which can be exacerbated by magnesium sulfate. A heart rate of 56/min is bradycardic and may indicate magnesium toxicity, requiring assessment and possible discontinuation of the infusion.

2. A healthcare professional is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who has respiratory acidosis. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?

• A. HCO3- 30 mEq/L
• B. PaCO2 50 mm Hg
• C. pH 7.45
• D. Potassium 3.3 mEq/L

Correct answer: PaCO2 50 mm Hg

Rationale: In respiratory acidosis, the primary disturbance is an increase in PaCO2 levels above the normal range of 35-45 mm Hg. Option B, PaCO2 50 mm Hg, indicates an elevated partial pressure of carbon dioxide, which is consistent with respiratory acidosis. Options A, C, and D are not directly indicative of respiratory acidosis. HCO3- (Option A) is more related to metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, pH (Option C) is within the normal range indicating no acid-base imbalance, and potassium (Option D) levels are not specific to respiratory acidosis.

3. A newborn's mother is positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen. Which of the following should the infant receive?

• A. Hepatitis B immune globulin at 1 week followed by hepatitis B vaccine monthly for 6 months
• B. Hepatitis B vaccine monthly until the newborn tests negative for the hepatitis B surface antigen
• C. Hepatitis B immune globulin and hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hr of birth
• D. Hepatitis B vaccine at 24 hr followed by hepatitis B immune globulin every 12 hr for 3 days

Correct answer: Hepatitis B immune globulin and hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hr of birth

Rationale: In the scenario where a newborn's mother is positive for hepatitis B surface antigen, the infant should receive both hepatitis B immune globulin and hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth. This is crucial to provide passive and active immunity against the Hepatitis B virus. Hepatitis B immune globulin provides immediate protection by giving passive immunity, while the vaccine stimulates active immunity in the infant. Administering both within 12 hours of birth is important to prevent vertical transmission of the virus.

4. A client with preterm labor is being admitted. The nurse anticipates a prescription by the provider for which of the following medications?

• A. Prostaglandin E2
• B. Indomethacin
• C. Methylergonovine
• D. Oxytocin

Correct answer: Indomethacin

Rationale: Indomethacin is used to delay premature labor by inhibiting uterine contractions. Prostaglandin E2, Methylergonovine, and Oxytocin are not typically used to manage preterm labor. Prostaglandin E2 can be used for cervical ripening and labor induction. Methylergonovine is used to prevent or control postpartum hemorrhage. Oxytocin is used for labor induction and augmentation of labor in term pregnancies.

5. A nurse on the postpartum unit is caring for a group of clients with an assistive personnel (AP). Which of the following tasks should the nurse plan to delegate to the AP?

• A. Provide a sitz bath to a client who has a fourth-degree laceration and is 2 days postpartum.
• B. Observe an area of redness on the breast of a client who is 1 day postpartum.
• C. Monitor vital signs during admission of a client who has gestational hypertension.
• D. Change the perineal pad of a client who just transferred from labor and delivery.

Correct answer: Provide a sitz bath to a client who has a fourth-degree laceration and is 2 days postpartum.

Rationale: Delegating the task of providing a sitz bath to a client with a fourth-degree laceration and who is 2 days postpartum to the assistive personnel (AP) is appropriate. This task involves assisting the client with personal hygiene and comfort measures that can be safely performed by the AP under the supervision and direction of the nurse. Tasks like observing redness on the breast, monitoring vital signs during admission for gestational hypertension, and changing perineal pads may require a higher level of assessment and nursing judgment, making them more appropriate for the nurse to perform.

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