Nursing Elites

1. A patient is 1 hour postoperative following an open reduction internal fixation of the left tibia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Assess neurovascular status of the extremities every 4 hours
• B. Monitor the patient's pain level every 8 hours
• C. Assist the patient to the bathroom every 2 hours
• D. Keep the patient's left leg elevated on two pillows

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take 1 hour postoperative following an open reduction internal fixation of the left tibia is to assess neurovascular status of the extremities every 4 hours. This frequent assessment is crucial to monitor for any signs of complications such as impaired circulation or nerve damage. Monitoring every 4 hours allows for early detection of any issues, enabling timely intervention and prevention of potential complications. Monitoring the patient's pain level every 8 hours (choice B) is not as immediate or essential for postoperative care. Assisting the patient to the bathroom every 2 hours (choice C) may not be necessary if the patient is not ambulatory yet. Keeping the patient's left leg elevated on two pillows (choice D) can be beneficial but is not the priority in the immediate postoperative period compared to assessing neurovascular status.

2. A caregiver is teaching a parent of a child with a new prescription for ferrous sulfate tablets. Which of the following instructions should the caregiver include in the teaching?

• A. Give the medication with milk.
• B. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
• C. Avoid giving the medication with orange juice.
• D. Brush the child's teeth after administration.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: It is important for the caregiver to instruct the parent to brush the child's teeth after administering ferrous sulfate to prevent staining of the teeth. Iron in ferrous sulfate can cause teeth discoloration, so brushing the child's teeth after taking the medication helps prevent this side effect.

3. Why is it important to share information with the family about why you are asking certain things as you evaluate the child?

• A. It helps them to understand the role of occupational therapy
• B. It establishes your goals with the family up front
• C. It communicates your level of expertise to the family
• D. It allows them to understand your point of view

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sharing information with the family about the reasons for your questions is crucial as it helps them comprehend the purpose and role of occupational therapy in the evaluation process. This transparency fosters trust, collaboration, and empowers families to actively engage in the therapy journey. Choice B is incorrect because while it is essential to establish goals with the family, the focus here is on sharing information about the evaluation process. Choice C is incorrect as the main purpose is not to showcase expertise but rather to involve the family in understanding the assessment. Choice D is incorrect as the primary goal is not for the family to understand your point of view, but rather the purpose of the evaluation within the occupational therapy context.

4. The nurse is providing care for a pediatric client in the emergency department (ED) with a diagnosis of decreased level of consciousness (LOC) secondary to increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Which healthcare provider order should the nurse question?

• A. Passive range-of-motion exercises to promote hip flexion
• B. Oxygen at 2 L nasal cannula to maintain saturation above 95%
• C. Hourly vital signs and neurologic checks
• D. Elevate head of bed 30 degrees

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a pediatric client with increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and decreased level of consciousness (LOC), passive range-of-motion exercises to promote hip flexion should be questioned as they can potentially increase intracranial pressure. This action may not be safe for the client's condition. The other options are appropriate interventions for managing a pediatric client with increased ICP and decreased LOC.

5. Before administering a live virus vaccine to a patient taking a glucocorticoid medication, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Continue screening and administer the vaccine if appropriate
• B. Note the contraindication but administer the vaccine regardless
• C. Note the contraindication and clarify the order with the healthcare provider
• D. Withhold the vaccine and inform the department of health

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when a patient on glucocorticoid medication is to note the contraindication and clarify the order with the healthcare provider. Glucocorticoids can suppress the immune response, potentially reducing the effectiveness of vaccines. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with the healthcare provider to assess the risks and benefits of administering a live virus vaccine in such circumstances. Administering a live virus vaccine to a patient taking glucocorticoids can increase the risk of developing a viral infection, making it essential to seek guidance from the healthcare provider before proceeding.

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