Nursing Elites

1. Following a total hip arthroplasty, what intervention should the healthcare provider implement for the client?

• A. Place a pillow between the client's legs.
• B. Elevate the head of the bed to 45 degrees.
• C. Position the client on the operative side.
• D. Keep the client’s legs adducted.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Placing a pillow between the client's legs is crucial post hip arthroplasty surgery to prevent hip dislocation. This intervention helps maintain proper alignment and prevents legs from crossing midline, reducing the risk of hip prosthesis dislocation. Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees, positioning the client on the operative side, or keeping the client's legs adducted are not recommended postoperative interventions for a total hip arthroplasty, as they can increase the risk of complications and compromise the surgical site.

2. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has chronic pain. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Hyperthermia
• D. Depression

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Depression. Chronic pain is often associated with psychological effects like depression. Patients with chronic pain may experience feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and despair, which are characteristic of depression. While chronic pain can lead to changes in vital signs like increased blood pressure and heart rate, hypotension, tachycardia, or hyperthermia are not typically expected findings solely due to chronic pain. Therefore, the healthcare professional should be alert to signs of depression in clients with chronic pain and address these psychological impacts appropriately.

3. When should discharge planning begin for a client admitted to a long-term care facility for rehabilitation after a total hip arthroplasty?

• A. One week prior to the client's discharge
• B. Upon the client's admission to the care facility
• C. Once the discharge date is identified
• D. When the client addresses the topic with the nurse

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Discharge planning should begin upon the client's admission to the care facility. This early start allows the healthcare team to conduct assessments, set goals, and coordinate services for a smooth transition back home or to the community. Initiating discharge planning early ensures timely arrangements, leading to optimal outcomes and continuity of care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because waiting until one week before discharge, after the discharge date is identified, or until the client brings up the topic may lead to rushed decision-making, inadequate arrangements, and a less effective transition process.

4. During postoperative teaching following a hip arthroplasty, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid lying on your operative side.
• B. Cross your legs at the ankles only.
• C. Place a pillow between your legs when turning.
• D. Avoid bending your hip more than 120 degrees.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include during postoperative teaching following a hip arthroplasty is to 'Place a pillow between your legs when turning.' Placing a pillow between the legs when turning is crucial as it helps prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis. This position aids in maintaining proper alignment and stability, thereby reducing the risk of complications after hip arthroplasty surgery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the specific action needed to protect the hip prosthesis and prevent complications.

5. A client with meningitis is being assessed by a healthcare provider. Which of the following findings should the provider expect?

• A. Negative Brudzinski’s sign.
• B. Flaccid neck muscles.
• C. Petechial rash.
• D. Hypoactive deep tendon reflexes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A petechial rash is a characteristic finding in clients with meningitis, indicating small, pinpoint hemorrhages under the skin. This rash results from the infection's impact on the blood vessels. Petechiae are important to recognize as they can help differentiate meningitis from other conditions with similar symptoms. Brudzinski’s sign, neck stiffness, and positive Kernig’s sign are more common physical exam findings in meningitis. Flaccid neck muscles and hypoactive deep tendon reflexes are not typically associated with meningitis.

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