Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy. The nurse should monitor for which of the following findings as a sign of hypocalcemia?

• A. Nausea
• B. Tingling in the fingers
• C. Numbness in the toes
• D. Sweating

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Tingling in the fingers is a classic sign of hypocalcemia. Following a thyroidectomy, hypocalcemia can occur due to damage to the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the body. Nausea, numbness in the toes, and sweating are not specific signs of hypocalcemia. Numbness and tingling usually start in the hands and feet due to their increased nerve sensitivity to low calcium levels.

2. A client undergoing radiation therapy is being taught about skin care by a nurse. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will use a heating pad to soothe the skin
• B. I will avoid using perfumed lotions on the treated area
• C. I will apply cold compresses to the area
• D. I will scrub the area daily with soap and water

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because avoiding perfumed lotions is important to prevent skin irritation after radiation therapy. Using a heating pad (A) can further damage the skin, applying cold compresses (C) may not be recommended, and scrubbing the area daily with soap and water (D) can be too harsh on the skin, leading to further irritation and damage.

3. A nurse is caring for a client with an NG tube who reports nausea and a decrease in gastric secretions. What is the nurse's next step?

• A. Administer an antiemetic
• B. Irrigate the NG tube with sterile water
• C. Increase the suction setting
• D. Replace the NG tube

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct next step for the nurse is to irrigate the NG tube with sterile water. This action helps relieve blockages that may be causing the symptoms of nausea and decreased gastric secretions. Administering an antiemetic (Choice A) may mask the underlying issue without addressing the possible blockage. Increasing the suction setting (Choice C) is not indicated without first addressing the potential blockage. Replacing the NG tube (Choice D) is also premature before attempting to clear any obstructions.

4. A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is concerned about weight gain during pregnancy. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. Your weight gain should be less than that for someone without diabetes.
• B. Your weight gain should be the same as that for someone without diabetes.
• C. You should not avoid gaining weight during pregnancy.
• D. You should gain more weight to support the pregnancy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During pregnancy, a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus should aim for a weight gain similar to someone without diabetes to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Choice A is incorrect because weight gain should not be less; it should be adequate for pregnancy. Choice C is inaccurate as gaining some weight is essential for a healthy pregnancy. Choice D is incorrect as gaining more weight than necessary can pose risks for both the client and the baby.

5. A client who is postoperative following a cholecystectomy has a urine output of 25 mL/hr. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Abdominal pain radiating to the right shoulder.
• B. Absent bowel sounds.
• C. Brown drainage on the surgical dressing.
• D. Urine output of 25 mL/hr.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A urine output below 30 mL/hr indicates a potential complication, such as hypovolemia or renal impairment, and should be reported. Abdominal pain radiating to the right shoulder can be common after a cholecystectomy due to referred pain from the diaphragm, whereas absent bowel sounds may be expected temporarily postoperatively. Brown drainage on the surgical dressing is typical in the early postoperative period and may represent old blood or other normal discharge.

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