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. A healthcare professional is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a new prescription for warfarin. Which of the following instructions should the healthcare professional include?

• A. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice.
• B. Take aspirin for pain relief.
• C. Consume a consistent amount of green leafy vegetables.
• D. Use an electric razor when shaving.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Consuming a consistent amount of green leafy vegetables is important for clients taking warfarin as these foods contain vitamin K, which can affect the medication's effectiveness. Maintaining a consistent intake helps stabilize the International Normalized Ratio (INR) levels, which is crucial for monitoring the blood's ability to clot properly while on warfarin therapy. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Avoiding grapefruit juice is generally recommended with certain medications due to its interaction with liver enzymes, which is not directly related to warfarin. Taking aspirin along with warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding. Using an electric razor when shaving is a safety precaution for those at risk of bleeding, but it is not directly related to the medication warfarin.

3. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a prescription for digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take your pulse before taking the medication.
• B. Take the medication with an antacid.
• C. Double the dose if you miss one.
• D. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take your pulse before taking the medication.' When administering digoxin, it is crucial to monitor the pulse rate because digoxin can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate). Checking the pulse helps in assessing the heart rate before taking the medication, as bradycardia is a common side effect of digoxin. Choice B is incorrect because digoxin should not be taken with antacids, as they can reduce its absorption. Choice C is incorrect; the dose should never be doubled if a dose is missed. Choice D is incorrect because taking digoxin with a high-fiber meal can also affect its absorption. Therefore, the essential instruction for the client is to monitor the pulse before taking digoxin.

4. A client has a stage 1 pressure ulcer on the right heel. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Apply a heat lamp to the area for 20 minutes each day.
• B. Change the dressing on the heel every 12 hours.
• C. Apply a transparent dressing over the heel.
• D. Use a water pressure mattress.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Applying a transparent dressing over the heel is beneficial as it can protect the ulcer from friction and shear, and allow for continuous observation of the wound. This intervention promotes healing and prevents further damage to the skin. Choice A is incorrect because applying heat can increase the risk of tissue damage and should be avoided. Choice B is incorrect as changing the dressing every 12 hours may disrupt the wound healing process and is not necessary for a stage 1 pressure ulcer. Choice D is incorrect because using a water pressure mattress is not a specific intervention for a stage 1 pressure ulcer on the heel.

5. Prior to administering a blood transfusion, what should the healthcare professional do first?

• A. Prime the IV tubing with normal saline.
• B. Verify the client's identity.
• C. Obtain the blood product from the blood bank.
• D. Check the client's vital signs.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Verifying the client's identity is the essential initial step before administering a blood transfusion. This action is crucial to confirm that the correct blood product is being administered to the right client, thereby preventing any potential errors or adverse reactions. Ensuring patient safety is paramount in healthcare, and verifying the client's identity is a fundamental safety measure that should always be prioritized.

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