Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a patient with an infection. Which laboratory result is most important to monitor?

• A. White blood cell count (WBC)
• B. C-reactive protein (CRP)
• C. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
• D. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: White blood cell count (WBC). Monitoring the white blood cell count is crucial when caring for a patient with an infection as it helps assess the body's response to the infection. An elevated white blood cell count often indicates an active infection or inflammation, while a decreasing count may signal improvement or potential complications. C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are nonspecific markers of inflammation and not as specific to monitoring infection progression as the white blood cell count. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are important for assessing oxygen-carrying capacity and blood volume, but they are not the primary indicators for monitoring infection.

2. A client is undergoing chemotherapy and expresses concern about hair loss. What is the best response?

• A. Reassure the client that hair loss is not permanent.
• B. Provide resources for wigs or hairpieces.
• C. Encourage the client to cut their hair short in advance.
• D. Advise the client that chemotherapy causes temporary hair loss.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best response when a client undergoing chemotherapy expresses concern about hair loss is to advise them that chemotherapy causes temporary hair loss. This response provides accurate information to the client about the side effect they are experiencing. Choice A is incorrect because it may provide false reassurance as for some individuals, hair loss can be a challenging experience. Choice B is not the best initial response as addressing the client's concerns and providing information should come first. Choice C is not the most appropriate response as cutting hair short may not necessarily prevent hair loss and does not address the client's concerns about the temporary nature of chemotherapy-induced hair loss.

3. A nurse enters a client's room and finds her on the floor. The client's roommate reports that the client was trying to get out of bed and fell over the bedrail onto the floor. Which of the following statements should the nurse document about this incident?

• A. Found on floor
• B. Client slipped while getting out of bed
• C. Patient fell while attempting to get out of bed
• D. Roommate reported fall

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A: Found on floor.' This choice provides a clear and objective account of the situation without adding interpretation or assumptions. It is crucial to document only the facts observed directly. Choices B and C introduce speculation by suggesting how the incident happened, which the nurse did not witness. Choice D is not directly related to the nurse’s observation and should not be documented as the primary incident.

4. What is the primary purpose of turning and repositioning an immobile patient every 2 hours?

• A. To improve circulation and relieve pressure.
• B. To prevent contractures and muscle atrophy.
• C. To prevent skin breakdown and pressure ulcers.
• D. To improve respiratory function and prevent pneumonia.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of turning and repositioning an immobile patient every 2 hours is to prevent skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. Prolonged immobility can lead to pressure ulcers, making this a crucial nursing intervention. Choice A is incorrect because while turning can help improve circulation and relieve pressure, the primary purpose is to prevent skin breakdown. Choice B is incorrect as preventing contractures and muscle atrophy is important but not the primary purpose of turning. Choice D is incorrect as improving respiratory function and preventing pneumonia are not directly related to turning and repositioning for skin integrity.

5. A nurse is caring for a client with a new colostomy. What is the nurse's responsibility regarding stoma care?

• A. Educate the client on how to care for the stoma independently.
• B. Contact the stoma nurse to assist the client with care.
• C. Delegate the care of the stoma to a nursing assistant.
• D. Wait until the next shift to address the stoma care.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to contact the stoma nurse to assist the client with care. Stoma nurses are specially trained to provide guidance on stoma care, especially for clients with new ostomies. Instructing the client to care for the stoma independently (Choice A) may not be appropriate initially as they may need professional guidance. Delegating the care of the stoma to a nursing assistant (Choice C) is not recommended as specialized care is required. Waiting until the next shift (Choice D) is not ideal as stoma care should not be delayed.

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