Nursing Elites

1. A client is 48 hours postoperative following a small bowel resection. The client reports gas pains in the periumbilical area. The nurse should plan care based on which of the following factors contributing to this postoperative complication?

• A. Impaired peristalsis of the intestines
• B. Infection at the surgical site
• C. Fluid overload
• D. Inadequate pain management

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Gas pains in the periumbilical area postoperatively are often caused by impaired peristalsis and bowel function. Following abdominal surgery, it is common for peristalsis to be reduced due to surgical manipulation and anesthesia effects. This reduction in peristalsis can lead to the accumulation of gas in the intestines, resulting in gas pains. Infection at the surgical site (Choice B) would present with localized signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, and drainage, rather than diffuse gas pains. Fluid overload (Choice C) would manifest with symptoms such as edema, increased blood pressure, and respiratory distress, not gas pains. Inadequate pain management (Choice D) may lead to increased discomfort, but it is not the primary cause of gas pains in the periumbilical area following a small bowel resection.

2. A client who had a myocardial infarction (MI) 2 days ago has many questions about this condition. What area is a priority for the nurse to discuss at this time?

• A. Daily needs and concerns
• B. The overview of cardiac rehabilitation
• C. Medication and diet guidelines
• D. Activity and rest guidelines

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Addressing the client's daily needs and concerns is a priority to help alleviate anxiety and ensure the client understands the immediate post-MI care. Daily needs and concerns encompass basic aspects like comfort, hygiene, emotional support, and overall well-being, which are crucial in the early recovery phase post-MI. Discussing cardiac rehabilitation, medication and diet guidelines, or activity and rest guidelines are important topics but addressing immediate personal needs and concerns takes precedence to establish a supportive and informative care environment.

3. A client is scheduled for hip surgery in an hour. Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?

• A. Ensure that the client signs the consent form.
• B. Lock the client’s valuables in a secure location.
• C. Verify the client’s lab values in the medical record.
• D. Administer the prescribed preoperative sedative.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nurse’s priority is to ensure that the client signs the consent form before the hip surgery. This is crucial as it ensures that the client has provided informed consent for the procedure. Locking valuables, verifying lab values, and administering sedatives are important tasks but ensuring consent takes precedence as it directly impacts the client’s right to make decisions about their care.

4. A client with Parkinson's disease is being discharged. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will take my medication at the same time every day.
• B. I will increase my fiber intake to prevent constipation.
• C. I will perform range of motion exercises to maintain mobility.
• D. I will stop taking my medication if I feel better.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Patients with Parkinson's disease should not stop taking their medication if they feel better, as doing so can worsen symptoms. It is crucial for patients to continue their prescribed medication regimen as directed by their healthcare provider. Choices A, B, and C are all appropriate actions that promote the well-being of a client with Parkinson's disease. Choice A emphasizes medication adherence, which is vital for symptom management. Choice B addresses a common issue in Parkinson's patients and shows an understanding of the importance of dietary management. Choice C highlights the significance of physical activity in maintaining mobility, which is essential for overall quality of life in Parkinson's disease.

5. During assessment, what is a nurse monitoring when assessing body alignment?

• A. The relationship of one body part to another in different positions
• B. The coordination between musculoskeletal and nervous systems
• C. The force opposing movement direction
• D. The ability to move freely

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a nurse assesses body alignment, they are observing the relationship of one body part to another in various positions. This involves evaluating the positioning of joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles while a person is standing, sitting, or lying down. Choice B is incorrect because it refers more to the coordination between the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, which is not specifically related to body alignment assessment. Choice C is incorrect as it describes the force opposing movement rather than body alignment. Choice D is incorrect as it defines the ability to move freely, which is not directly related to monitoring body alignment.

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