Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is postop following abdominal surgery. What behavior should the nurse identify as increasing the client's risk for constipation?

• A. Increased fiber intake
• B. Decreased physical activity
• C. Frequent urge suppression
• D. Adequate sleep

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decreased physical activity. Following abdominal surgery, reduced physical activity can contribute to constipation due to decreased bowel motility. Increased fiber intake (choice A) generally helps prevent constipation by adding bulk to the stool. Frequent urge suppression (choice C) may lead to issues like urinary retention but is not directly linked to constipation. Adequate sleep (choice D) is important for overall recovery but does not significantly impact constipation risk.

2. A client scheduled for cataract surgery tells the nurse, 'I see just fine and have decided to cancel my surgery.' What should the nurse do?

• A. Proceed with the surgery as planned
• B. Document the refusal and inform the surgeon
• C. Explain the benefits of the surgery
• D. Respect the client's decision

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should explain the benefits of the surgery to the client. By providing more information, the client may reconsider their decision after understanding the positive impact the surgery could have on their vision. Proceeding with the surgery against the client's wishes (Choice A) is not ethical and goes against the principle of autonomy. While documenting the refusal and informing the surgeon (Choice B) is important for the client's medical record, it is crucial to first try to educate the client about the benefits. Simply respecting the client's decision (Choice D) without attempting to provide more information may not be in the client's best interest.

3. A client with a new diagnosis of hypertension is receiving discharge teaching. What should the nurse emphasize regarding lifestyle changes?

• A. Limit sodium intake to 2 grams per day
• B. Increase fluid intake to 2 liters per day
• C. Avoid potassium-rich foods
• D. Avoid alcohol consumption

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to increase fluid intake to 2 liters per day. Adequate fluid intake helps manage hypertension and prevent fluid retention. Limiting sodium intake, avoiding potassium-rich foods, and abstaining from alcohol are important aspects of managing hypertension; however, in this scenario, emphasizing the increase in fluid intake is crucial for the client's understanding and compliance.

4. A nurse is assessing a client who reports pain at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and warm. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the IV infusion
• C. Apply a cold compress
• D. Increase the IV flow rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV infusion. The signs of redness and warmth at the IV site indicate phlebitis, an inflammation of the vein. Discontinuing the IV infusion is crucial to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Flushing the IV line with saline would not address the underlying issue of phlebitis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the cause. Increasing the IV flow rate can exacerbate the inflammation and should be avoided.

5. When performing an abdominal assessment on a client, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Palpate the abdomen
• B. Auscultate bowel sounds
• C. Inspect the abdomen
• D. Percuss the abdomen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate bowel sounds. This action should be taken first because it ensures that bowel sounds are not altered by physical manipulation. Inspecting the abdomen (choice C) may provide visual cues but does not address functional assessment. Palpating the abdomen (choice A) should follow auscultation to prevent altering bowel sounds. Percussing the abdomen (choice D) is typically done after auscultation and palpation.

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