Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is undergoing surgery for a hip fracture. What is a priority intervention to reduce the risk of postoperative complications?

• A. Encourage early ambulation
• B. Provide intravenous antibiotics
• C. Apply anti-embolism stockings
• D. Place a Foley catheter to monitor output

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging early ambulation is crucial in reducing the risk of postoperative complications, such as blood clots and pneumonia. Early mobilization helps prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis and pneumonia by promoting circulation and preventing respiratory complications. Providing intravenous antibiotics (Choice B) is important for preventing infections but is not the priority immediately post-surgery. Applying anti-embolism stockings (Choice C) is beneficial in preventing venous thromboembolism but does not address the immediate need for mobility. Placing a Foley catheter (Choice D) may be necessary during surgery but is not a priority intervention to reduce postoperative complications related to immobility.

2. A client with a new diagnosis of hypertension is receiving discharge teaching. What should the nurse emphasize regarding lifestyle changes?

• A. Limit sodium intake to 2 grams per day
• B. Increase fluid intake to 2 liters per day
• C. Avoid potassium-rich foods
• D. Avoid alcohol consumption

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to increase fluid intake to 2 liters per day. Adequate fluid intake helps manage hypertension and prevent fluid retention. Limiting sodium intake, avoiding potassium-rich foods, and abstaining from alcohol are important aspects of managing hypertension; however, in this scenario, emphasizing the increase in fluid intake is crucial for the client's understanding and compliance.

3. A healthcare professional is reviewing the medical record of a client with a hip fracture. Which finding is a risk factor for pressure injuries?

• A. Frequent repositioning
• B. Poor nutrition
• C. Use of a special mattress
• D. Urinary incontinence

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the use of a special mattress. Special mattresses are designed to reduce pressure on bony prominences, thereby helping to prevent pressure injuries. Frequent repositioning (Choice A) is actually a preventive measure for pressure injuries. Poor nutrition (Choice B) can contribute to delayed wound healing but is not a direct risk factor for pressure injuries. Urinary incontinence (Choice D) can increase the risk of skin breakdown but is not a direct risk factor for pressure injuries.

4. A nurse is assessing the IV infusion site of a client who reports pain at the site. The site is red, and there is warmth along the course of the vein. What should the nurse do?

• A. Increase the IV flow rate
• B. Discontinue the infusion
• C. Elevate the limb
• D. Apply a cold compress

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the infusion (Choice B) as the signs described suggest phlebitis, an inflammation of the vein. Increasing the IV flow rate (Choice A) can exacerbate the condition by increasing the irritation. Elevating the limb (Choice C) and applying a cold compress (Choice D) are not the appropriate interventions for phlebitis. Elevation and cold therapy are more suitable for conditions like swelling or inflammation, but in this case, discontinuing the infusion is the priority to prevent further complications.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for a narcotic medication. After administration, what should the nurse do with the unused portion?

• A. Document the amount wasted
• B. Store it for later use
• C. Discard it with another nurse as a witness
• D. Return it to the pharmacy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After administering a narcotic medication, any unused portion should be discarded with another nurse as a witness. This procedure ensures proper disposal of controlled substances and prevents misuse or diversion. Storing it for later use (Choice B) is not appropriate due to safety concerns and legal regulations. Returning it to the pharmacy (Choice D) is also not recommended as the medication is already out of the pharmacy's control. Documenting the amount wasted (Choice A) is important for accurate record-keeping but does not address the immediate need for safe disposal of the unused narcotic medication.

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