Nursing Elites

1. A client is 24 hours postoperative following an inguinal hernia repair. The client is tolerating clear liquids well, has active bowel sounds, and is expressing a desire for “real food.” The nurse tells the client, “I will call the surgeon and ask for a change in diet.” The surgeon hears the nurse’s report and prescribes a full liquid diet. The nurse used which of the following levels of critical thinking?

• A. Basic
• B. Commitment
• C. Complex
• D. Integrity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse demonstrated complex critical thinking by assessing the client's condition, evaluating the need for a change, and making a recommendation to the surgeon. In this scenario, the nurse went beyond simply following instructions or making routine decisions (basic critical thinking). There was a depth of analysis and decision-making involved, showing a higher level of critical thinking than basic or commitment levels. Integrity is about adherence to ethical principles and honesty, not directly related to the critical thinking process.

2. A nurse is preparing to administer enoxaparin subcutaneously. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Administer the medication with the needle at a 45-degree angle.
• B. Administer the medication with the needle at a 90-degree angle.
• C. Administer the medication with the needle at a 30-degree angle.
• D. Administer the medication with the needle at a 15-degree angle.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Enoxaparin should be administered with the needle at a 90-degree angle to ensure proper subcutaneous delivery. Choice B is correct as it aligns with the recommended angle for subcutaneous injections. Administering enoxaparin at a 45-degree angle (Choice A), 30-degree angle (Choice C), or 15-degree angle (Choice D) would not be appropriate and may lead to improper administration or absorption of the medication.

3. A nurse is providing care to a 17-year-old client in the post-operative care unit (PACU) after an emergency appendectomy. Which finding is an early indication that the client is experiencing poor oxygenation?

• A. Abnormal breath sounds
• B. Cyanosis of the lips
• C. Increasing pulse rate
• D. Pulse oximeter reading of 92%

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An increasing pulse rate can be an early sign of poor oxygenation as the body tries to compensate. Abnormal breath sounds (choice A) can indicate respiratory issues, but they may not always be an early sign of poor oxygenation. Cyanosis of the lips (choice B) is a late sign of inadequate oxygenation. A pulse oximeter reading of 92% (choice D) indicates mild hypoxemia but may not be considered an early indication of poor oxygenation.

4. During a complete bed bath for a client, after removing the gown and placing a bath blanket over the body, which of the following areas should the nurse wash first?

• A. Face
• B. Feet
• C. Chest
• D. Arms

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When performing a complete bed bath, it is essential to wash the face first. Washing the face initially helps to maintain the client's privacy and comfort. Additionally, starting with the face prevents re-contamination of already cleaned areas. Washing the feet first (Choice B) is not ideal as it can lead to potential contamination of the upper body parts. Starting with the chest (Choice C) or arms (Choice D) is not recommended due to the risk of water dripping onto the client's face, causing discomfort and compromising privacy.

5. The debilitated patient is resisting attempts by the nurse to provide oral hygiene. Which action will the nurse take next?

• A. Insert an oral airway.
• B. Place the patient in a flat, supine position.
• C. Use undiluted hydrogen peroxide as a cleaner.
• D. Quickly proceed without talking to the patient.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a debilitated patient resists oral hygiene, the nurse should prioritize safety. Inserting an oral airway helps keep the mouth open, ensuring adequate access for oral care procedures while preventing any accidental biting or closure of the airway. Placing the patient in a flat, supine position may not address the resistance issue and can lead to aspiration risk. Using undiluted hydrogen peroxide is not recommended due to its potential harmful effects on oral tissues. Proceeding quickly without communication can escalate the situation and compromise patient-centered care.

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