Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a patient who has been in a motor vehicle crash and has a minor traumatic brain injury (TBI). What finding should the nurse recognize as a complication and report to the provider?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Vomiting
• C. Drainage from the ear
• D. Unequal pupils

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Unequal pupils are a sign of increased intracranial pressure or worsening brain injury, indicating a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention. Hypertension, vomiting, and drainage from the ear are not typically associated with minor traumatic brain injury complications; therefore, they are not the priority findings to report to the provider.

2. A client is preparing advance directives. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of advance directives?

• A. I cannot change my instructions once they are made
• B. My doctor will need to approve my advance directives
• C. I need an attorney to witness my signature on the advance directives
• D. I have the right to refuse treatment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'I have the right to refuse treatment.' This statement indicates an understanding of advance directives because advance directives allow individuals to express their treatment preferences, including the right to refuse treatment if they choose to do so. Choice A is incorrect because individuals can update or change their advance directives as needed. Choice B is incorrect because advance directives are based on the individual's preferences, not the doctor's approval. Choice C is incorrect as witnessing an advance directive typically requires a witness who is not an attorney, depending on the state's specific requirements.

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a client for signs of anaphylaxis. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional look for?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Hypotension
• C. Increased appetite
• D. Decreased respiratory rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Hypotension is a critical sign of anaphylaxis. During anaphylaxis, there is a widespread vasodilation leading to a drop in blood pressure, which manifests as hypotension. This can be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, difficulty breathing, hives, and itching. Bradycardia (choice A) is not typically associated with anaphylaxis; instead, tachycardia is more common due to the body's response to the allergic reaction. Increased appetite (choice C) is unrelated to anaphylaxis, as individuals experiencing anaphylaxis often feel unwell and may have nausea or vomiting. Decreased respiratory rate (choice D) is also not a typical finding in anaphylaxis; instead, respiratory distress and wheezing are more commonly observed.

4. A nurse observes an assistive personnel (AP) providing care to a child who is in skeletal traction. Which of the following actions requires intervention?

• A. Providing a high-protein snack
• B. Assisting the child to reposition
• C. Placing weights on the child’s bed
• D. Massaging pressure points

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Placing weights on the child's bed can alter the traction, which must remain constant to be effective. This action requires immediate intervention to prevent harm. Providing a high-protein snack (Choice A) is appropriate for the child's nutritional needs. Assisting the child to reposition (Choice B) helps prevent complications such as pressure ulcers. Massaging pressure points (Choice D) can help promote circulation and prevent skin breakdown. However, altering the traction by placing weights on the bed can be detrimental to the child's condition and must be corrected promptly.

5. A nurse is caring for a client receiving a dopamine infusion via a peripheral IV. Which of the following actions should the nurse take if the IV site appears infiltrated?

• A. Stop the infusion.
• B. Slow the infusion.
• C. Apply a warm compress to the site.
• D. Apply a cold compress to the site.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: If infiltration is suspected, the nurse should immediately stop the dopamine infusion to prevent further damage to the surrounding tissue. Choice A is the correct answer because continuing the infusion can lead to tissue damage and compromise the client's care. Slowing the infusion (Choice B) is not sufficient to prevent harm and may still cause damage. Applying a warm compress (Choice C) or a cold compress (Choice D) is not the recommended action for infiltration; stopping the infusion is crucial to prevent complications.

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