Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a bowel resection. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Bowel sounds present in all four quadrants
• B. Temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F)
• C. Scant urine output
• D. Serosanguineous wound drainage

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Serosanguineous wound drainage.' Serosanguineous drainage should be reported in postoperative clients as it may indicate complications such as infection or impaired wound healing. Options A, B, and C are expected findings in a postoperative client. Bowel sounds present in all four quadrants indicate normal gastrointestinal function, a temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F) is within the normal range, and scant urine output may be expected initially due to factors like anesthesia and fluid shifts postoperatively.

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

• A. Take this medication with food to prevent nausea.
• B. Notify your provider if you experience visual disturbances.
• C. Take an antacid with this medication if indigestion occurs.
• D. Avoid taking this medication if your heart rate is less than 60/min.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client taking digoxin is to notify their provider if they experience visual disturbances. Visual disturbances can be a sign of digoxin toxicity, and prompt notification to the healthcare provider is essential for timely intervention. Choice A is incorrect because digoxin should be taken on an empty stomach for better absorption. Choice C is incorrect because antacids can interfere with the absorption of digoxin. Choice D is incorrect because a heart rate less than 60/min is not a sole reason to avoid taking digoxin; rather, it is important to monitor the heart rate and consult with the healthcare provider if there are concerns.

3. What is the most important assessment for a patient with suspected pneumonia?

• A. Monitor lung sounds
• B. Check oxygen saturation
• C. Assess for cough
• D. Assess for fever

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important assessment for a patient with suspected pneumonia is to monitor lung sounds. Lung sounds provide crucial information about the severity of pneumonia, such as crackles or decreased air entry. This assessment helps in evaluating the effectiveness of ventilation and oxygenation. While checking oxygen saturation is important, monitoring lung sounds gives more direct information about the lung involvement in pneumonia. Assessing for cough and fever are also relevant but do not provide as direct and critical information as monitoring lung sounds in the context of suspected pneumonia.

4. A nurse is assessing a client who is 1 day postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg
• B. Heart rate of 88/min
• C. Respiratory rate of 20/min
• D. Temperature of 37.3°C (99.1°F)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a temperature of 37.3°C (99.1°F) is slightly elevated, indicating a possible infection or inflammatory response, which should be reported to the provider for further evaluation. Choices A, B, and C are within normal limits for a client postoperative, so they do not require immediate reporting. Elevated temperature can be a sign of infection or other complications, making it a priority for reporting and further assessment.

5. A client has a new prescription for levothyroxine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take this medication in the evening before bed.
• B. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
• C. Take this medication with a full glass of milk.
• D. Take this medication with an antacid if you experience indigestion.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction when taking levothyroxine is to take it on an empty stomach. This enhances absorption and ensures the medication's effectiveness. Taking it with food or other substances, such as milk or antacids, can interfere with its absorption. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect.

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