Nursing Elites

1. A client is postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following actions should be taken to prevent respiratory complications?

• A. Instruct the client to exhale into an incentive spirometer
• B. Reposition the client every 8 hours
• C. Assist the client with early ambulation
• D. Maintain the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Assisting the client with early ambulation is crucial in preventing respiratory complications after abdominal surgery. Early ambulation helps to prevent conditions like atelectasis and pneumonia by promoting lung expansion and preventing pooling of respiratory secretions. It also aids in improving circulation, reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and enhancing overall recovery. Instructing the client to exhale into an incentive spirometer (Choice A) is beneficial for lung expansion but is more focused on respiratory therapy rather than preventing complications. Repositioning the client every 8 hours (Choice B) is important for preventing pressure ulcers but is not directly related to preventing respiratory complications. Maintaining the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours (Choice D) can lead to complications such as atelectasis, pneumonia, and deep vein thrombosis due to decreased lung expansion and mobility.

2. What is a true statement about caring for a client with a nasogastric (NG) tube?

• A. The NG tube should be flushed with 30 mL of water every 4 hours.
• B. The client should be positioned in a supine position.
• C. The NG tube should be advanced 5 cm if resistance is met.
• D. The client's nasal mucosa should be inspected daily.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Flushing the NG tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours is crucial to maintain its patency and prevent blockages. This routine ensures the tube stays clear and functional, enabling proper delivery of medications and nutrition to the client. Regular flushing also helps prevent residue buildup or clogs within the tube, reducing risks like aspiration or inaccurate medication dosing.

3. During a teaching session on dietary management for heart failure, a client makes a statement. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should increase my intake of foods high in sodium.
• B. I should increase my intake of foods high in potassium.
• C. I should decrease my intake of fluids.
• D. I should decrease my intake of fiber.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because decreasing fluid intake is essential in managing fluid retention and symptoms of heart failure. Restricting fluids helps prevent excessive fluid buildup in the body, thus reducing the workload on the heart and alleviating symptoms like swelling and shortness of breath. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Increasing intake of foods high in sodium can exacerbate fluid retention and worsen heart failure symptoms. Increasing potassium-rich foods is beneficial for some heart conditions but not heart failure specifically. Decreasing fiber intake is not a standard recommendation for heart failure management.

4. A client with a seizure disorder is under the care of a nurse. Which of the following precautions should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Place a padded tongue depressor at the bedside.
• B. Keep the bed in the lowest position.
• C. Restrain the client during a seizure.
• D. Keep the lights dim in the client's room.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Keeping the bed in the lowest position is crucial for ensuring the safety of the client during a seizure. Lowering the bed reduces the risk of injury if the client falls during a seizure episode. It is important not to restrain the client during a seizure as it can lead to further injury. Placing a padded tongue depressor at the bedside is not appropriate and can pose a risk of injury if used incorrectly. Keeping the lights dim in the client's room is not directly related to safety during a seizure and is not a standard precaution.

5. A client with dysphagia and at risk for aspiration needs care planning. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Encourage the client to drink thickened liquids.
• B. Instruct the client to swallow with chin tucked.
• C. Provide the client with a cup with a lid.
• D. Place the client in Fowler's position for meals.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Placing the client in Fowler's position is crucial in preventing aspiration as it helps maintain an open airway and reduces the risk of food or liquid entering the lungs during swallowing. This position promotes safer swallowing and minimizes the chances of aspiration pneumonia. Choices A, B, and C are less effective interventions for preventing aspiration. Encouraging the client to drink thickened liquids may help, but the position is more critical. Instructing the client to swallow with chin tucked is beneficial for some individuals but not as effective as positioning. Providing a cup with a lid does not directly address the risk of aspiration associated with dysphagia.

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