Nursing Elites

1. A patient in the cardiac care unit is taking bumetanide (Bumex) for heart issues and is also diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. An unlicensed assistive personnel is assisting with feeding the patient. Which of these foods should the nurse stress for the patient to eat most?

• A. Foods containing the least amount of salt
• B. Foods containing the most amount of potassium
• C. Foods containing the most amount of calories
• D. Foods containing the most amount of fiber

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bumex is a loop diuretic that can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Hypokalemia can be dangerous and lead to various complications. To prevent a hypokalemic crisis, it is crucial to ensure an adequate intake of potassium. Therefore, the nurse should stress the patient to eat foods rich in potassium. Choices A, C, and D are not the priority in this situation. While monitoring salt intake is important in cardiac patients, the immediate concern with bumetanide use is the risk of hypokalemia, making choice B the most appropriate option.

2. A patient presents with vesicles covering the upper torso. Which of the following situations could cause this condition?

• A. Knife fight
• B. Auto accident
• C. Sunburn
• D. Fungal infection

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Vesicles are fluid-filled blisters. In the context of the upper torso, the presentation of vesicles suggests a second-degree sunburn. Sunburn can cause blistering, leading to the formation of vesicles. Choice A, 'Knife fight,' does not align with the presentation of vesicles on the upper torso due to trauma. Choice B, 'Auto accident,' is more likely to cause abrasions or bruises rather than vesicles. Choice D, 'Fungal infection,' typically presents with other symptoms such as redness, itching, or scaling, but not vesicles on the upper torso.

3. A 55-year-old patient admitted with an abrupt onset of jaundice and nausea has abnormal liver function studies, but serologic testing is negative for viral causes of hepatitis. Which question by the nurse is most appropriate?

• A. Is there any history of IV drug use?
• B. Do you use any over-the-counter drugs?
• C. Are you taking corticosteroids for any reason?
• D. Have you recently traveled to a foreign country?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate question for the nurse to ask in this scenario is whether the patient uses any over-the-counter drugs. The patient's symptoms, negative serologic testing for viral hepatitis, and sudden onset of symptoms point towards toxic hepatitis, which can be triggered by commonly used over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol). Asking about IV drug use is relevant for viral hepatitis, not toxic hepatitis. Inquiring about recent travel to a foreign country is more pertinent to potential exposure to infectious agents causing viral hepatitis. Corticosteroid use is not typically associated with the symptoms described in the case.

4. A patient is found unconscious in their room with rhythmic jerking of all four extremities and heavy foaming at the mouth. The patient was on seizure precautions with bedrails up and padded. What is the priority action for the nurse to take?

• A. Administer Lorazepam (Ativan)
• B. Turn the patient to his/her side
• C. Call the physician
• D. Suction the patient

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's priority action should be to turn the patient to his/her side. This position helps maintain an open airway and prevents aspiration of secretions or vomitus. Administering Lorazepam (Ativan) without ensuring a clear airway could lead to further complications. Calling the physician is important, but immediate interventions to protect the airway take precedence. Suctioning the patient may be necessary but should not be the initial action; positioning for airway protection is the priority.

5. Which assessment finding is of most concern for a 46-year-old woman with acute pancreatitis?

• A. Absent bowel sounds
• B. Abdominal tenderness
• C. Left upper quadrant pain
• D. Palpable abdominal mass

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is a palpable abdominal mass. In a 46-year-old woman with acute pancreatitis, a palpable abdominal mass may indicate the presence of a pancreatic abscess, which requires rapid surgical drainage to prevent sepsis. Absent bowel sounds, abdominal tenderness, and left upper quadrant pain are common symptoms in acute pancreatitis but do not necessarily indicate an immediate need for surgical intervention. Therefore, the presence of a palpable abdominal mass is the most concerning finding in this scenario.

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