Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 hours postoperative following a cholecystectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent postoperative complications?

• A. Instruct the client to perform deep breathing and coughing exercises.
• B. Have the client wear sequential compression devices (SCDs).
• C. Place the client in a supine position with the head of the bed flat.
• D. Encourage the client to ambulate every 2 hours.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Have the client wear sequential compression devices (SCDs). Following a cholecystectomy, the client is at risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) due to reduced mobility and surgical stress. SCDs help prevent VTE by promoting venous return and reducing the risk of blood clots. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. While deep breathing and coughing exercises are essential postoperatively, SCDs take precedence in preventing VTE. Placing the client in a supine position with the head of the bed flat can increase the risk of respiratory complications. Encouraging ambulation is important, but SCDs are a higher priority in this situation to prevent VTE.

2. A client has a new prescription for digoxin. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?

• A. You should take this medication on an empty stomach.
• B. You should avoid taking this medication with antacids.
• C. Take your pulse before taking this medication.
• D. You should contact your provider if you experience visual changes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement for the nurse to include when teaching a client about digoxin is to 'Take your pulse before taking this medication.' This is essential because clients taking digoxin need to monitor their pulse to detect signs of bradycardia, a common adverse effect of the medication. Option A is incorrect because digoxin is usually recommended to be taken with food to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Option B is incorrect because antacids can interfere with the absorption of digoxin. Option D is incorrect because contacting the provider for visual changes is important, but monitoring the pulse is crucial for digoxin administration.

3. A healthcare provider is preparing to administer an intramuscular injection to a client. Which of the following sites should the healthcare provider select?

• A. Deltoid
• B. Vastus lateralis
• C. Rectus femoris
• D. Dorsogluteal

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The vastus lateralis is the preferred site for intramuscular injections in adults due to its large muscle mass and low risk of complications. The deltoid, although a common site for vaccines, has a smaller muscle mass and may not be suitable for all types of medications. The rectus femoris is a muscle in the thigh that is more commonly used for intramuscular injections in infants. The dorsogluteal site is no longer recommended due to its proximity to major nerves and blood vessels.

4. A client with a new diagnosis of hypertension is receiving discharge teaching. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take my medication only when I feel dizzy.
• B. I will check my blood pressure at least once a week.
• C. I will limit my saturated fat intake to 7% of daily calories.
• D. I will take my medication only when I have symptoms.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because limiting saturated fat intake to 7% of daily calories is a crucial component of the dietary management for hypertension. This dietary modification helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because medication adherence should not be based on symptoms like dizziness. Choice B is inadequate as blood pressure monitoring should be more frequent, preferably daily, for effective management of hypertension. Choice D is incorrect because medication for hypertension should be taken consistently as prescribed, not just when symptoms occur.

5. Which electrolyte imbalance is commonly associated with patients on furosemide?

• A. Hypokalemia
• B. Hyponatremia
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hypercalcemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypokalemia. Furosemide, a loop diuretic, can lead to potassium loss in the body, resulting in hypokalemia. This electrolyte imbalance is commonly associated with furosemide use due to its mechanism of action in the kidneys. Hyponatremia (choice B) is not typically associated with furosemide. Hyperkalemia (choice C) and hypercalcemia (choice D) are not common electrolyte imbalances seen with furosemide use.

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