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 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.

3. A client who is confused and pulling at the tubing of her IV is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take before requesting a prescription for restraints from the provider?

• A. Place the client in a room away from the nurses’ station.
• B. Limit the client’s visitors.
• C. Give the client washcloths to fold.
• D. Close the door of the client’s room.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Providing the client with washcloths to fold is a non-restrictive intervention that can help distract and engage the client, potentially reducing the need for restraints. This action promotes a therapeutic and calming environment for the confused client. Placing the client in a room away from the nurses’ station (Choice A) may not address the underlying issue of confusion and agitation. Limiting the client’s visitors (Choice B) may not directly assist in managing the client's behavior. Closing the door of the client’s room (Choice D) does not actively engage the client in a therapeutic intervention to address the behavior.

4. A nurse on a medical-surgical unit has received change-of-shift report and will care for four clients. Which of the following tasks should the nurse assign to an assistive personnel (AP)?

• A. Updating the plan of care for a client who is postoperative
• B. Reinforcing teaching with a client who is learning to walk using a quad cane
• C. Reapplying a condom catheter for a client who has urinary incontinence
• D. Applying a sterile dressing to a pressure injury

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C - 'Reapplying a condom catheter for a client who has urinary incontinence.' This task falls within the scope of duties for an assistive personnel (AP). Updating care plans (Choice A), reinforcing teaching (Choice B), and applying sterile dressings (Choice D) typically require a higher level of training and expertise, making them tasks that should not be assigned to an AP. Assigning appropriate tasks based on skill levels ensures safe and effective patient care.

5. A client with heart failure is being taught by a nurse on reducing daily sodium intake. Which factor is most crucial in determining the client’s ability to learn new dietary habits?

• A. The client's involvement in planning the change
• B. The cost of the dietary changes
• C. The availability of low-sodium foods
• D. The client’s previous dietary knowledge

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The client’s previous dietary knowledge is the most critical factor in determining the ability to learn new dietary habits. Understanding the client's existing dietary knowledge helps tailor the teaching to build upon what they already know. While client involvement in planning changes can increase adherence and motivation, the foundational knowledge is essential for effective learning. The cost of dietary changes and the availability of low-sodium foods are important considerations but not as crucial as the client's existing knowledge.

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