Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client with a chest tube following a thoracotomy. Which of the following findings requires intervention by the nurse?

• A. Tidaling with spontaneous respirations
• B. Drainage collection chamber is 1/3 full
• C. 1 cm of water present in the water seal chamber
• D. Suction chamber pressure of -20 cm H2O

Correct answer: C

Rationale: 1 cm of water in the water seal chamber is insufficient to ensure proper functioning of the chest tube. The water seal chamber typically requires a water level of 2 cm. Tidaling with spontaneous respirations (choice A) is an expected finding indicating proper functioning. Having the drainage collection chamber 1/3 full (choice B) is within the normal range. A suction chamber pressure of -20 cm H2O (choice D) is an appropriate level for chest tube drainage.

2. A nurse is reviewing psychosocial stages of development for a school-age child. What would be an expected behavioral finding for this child?

• A. Personalize values and beliefs and base reasoning on ethical fairness principles.
• B. Develop a sense of personal identity that is influenced by family expectations.
• C. Develop a sense of industry through advances in learning.
• D. Take on new experiences and when unable to accomplish tasks, may feel guilty.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. School-age children (6-12 years) are in Erikson's stage of industry vs. inferiority. During this stage, they strive to develop a sense of industry through learning and socialization. They seek to excel in various areas, such as schoolwork or activities, and look for approval from peers and adults. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because personalizing values and beliefs, developing personal identity influenced by family expectations, and feeling guilty for inability to accomplish tasks are not typical behavioral findings for a school-age child in the context of psychosocial development.

3. A patient scheduled for cataract surgery tells the nurse, 'I see just fine and have decided to cancel my surgery.' Which response should the nurse make?

• A. Tell the patient they need the surgery
• B. Encourage the patient to express their thoughts
• C. Ignore the comment and proceed
• D. Insist the patient needs to proceed with the surgery

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Encouraging the patient to express their thoughts is the best response in this situation. It allows the patient to voice their concerns or reasons for canceling the surgery, which can help the healthcare team address any misunderstandings or fears the patient may have. Choices A and D are too directive and do not consider the patient's autonomy and right to make informed decisions about their care. Choice C is inappropriate as it disregards the patient's expressed decision and fails to address the underlying issue.

4. When admitting a client with fever, confusion, and decreased level of consciousness, what should the nurse do first after obtaining the client's history and assessment?

• A. Identify the client's needs
• B. Start intravenous fluids
• C. Notify the provider
• D. Conduct a neurological assessment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client presents with fever, confusion, and decreased level of consciousness, the first step should be to identify the client's needs. This involves recognizing any immediate concerns or issues that require urgent attention. Starting intravenous fluids, notifying the provider, or conducting a neurological assessment may be necessary actions but should come after identifying the client's needs to ensure proper prioritization of care.

5. A client who has been prescribed oral contraception receives education from a nurse. Which of the following client statements indicates a need for further education?

• A. If I miss one pill, I'll take it as soon as possible
• B. If I miss two pills, I'll double up for two days
• C. If I miss three pills, I'll double up each day until back on schedule
• D. I'll use an alternative form of contraception if I miss more than two pills

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct course of action after missing oral contraceptive pills depends on how many pills are missed. If three pills are missed, the client should not 'double up' but rather follow the manufacturer's instructions and use an alternative form of contraception until the next cycle. Taking too many pills at once increases the risk of side effects without restoring contraceptive protection. Choices A, B, and D demonstrate understanding of the correct actions to take after missing a pill or two, emphasizing the importance of not doubling up but following specific guidelines to maintain effectiveness and safety.

Similar Questions