Nursing Elites

1. When caring for an older adult client with a pulmonary infection, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake.
• B. Assess the client's level of consciousness.
• C. Raise the head of the bed to at least 45 degrees.
• D. Provide the client with humidified oxygen.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the client's level of consciousness is the priority because it provides crucial information on the client's neurological status and response to the infection. Changes in consciousness can indicate deterioration or improvement in the client's condition, guiding further interventions and treatment.

2. A client is being treated for inhalational anthrax following bioterrorism exposure. Which of the following medications should NOT be expected as a common treatment for anthrax?

• A. Ciprofloxacin
• B. Doxycycline
• C. Amoxicillin
• D. Penicillin G

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Penicillin G is NOT commonly used to treat anthrax. Anthrax is typically treated with antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and doxycycline due to penicillin's limited efficacy against anthrax bacteria. Amoxicillin is also not a preferred choice for anthrax treatment. Therefore, penicillin G would not be expected as a primary medication for anthrax treatment following bioterrorism exposure.

3. A client who is intubated and has an intra-aortic balloon pump is restless and agitated. What action should the nurse perform first for comfort?

• A. Allow family members to remain at the bedside.
• B. Ask the family if the client would like a fan in the room.
• C. Keep the television tuned to the client's favorite channel.
• D. Speak loudly to the client in case of hearing problems.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Allowing the family to remain at the bedside can help calm the client with familiar voices and presence, potentially reducing restlessness and agitation. Introducing a fan may not be the priority as it can spread germs through air movement. Keeping the television on all the time may not promote rest and recovery. Speaking loudly is not advisable as it may further agitate the client. Therefore, the initial action of allowing family members to stay is most likely to provide comfort and reassurance to the client.

4. A client is experiencing an acute exacerbation of asthma. Which medication should the nurse administer first?

• A. Albuterol (Proventil)
• B. Ipratropium (Atrovent)
• C. Salmeterol (Serevent)
• D. Fluticasone (Flovent)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During an acute exacerbation of asthma, the priority is to administer a short-acting beta2-agonist like Albuterol (Proventil) first. Albuterol acts quickly to dilate the airways and provide immediate relief of bronchospasm. Ipratropium (Atrovent) is an anticholinergic that can be used as an adjunct therapy. Salmeterol (Serevent) is a long-acting beta2-agonist intended for maintenance therapy, not for acute exacerbations. Fluticasone (Flovent) is a corticosteroid used for long-term asthma control and should not be the initial medication given during an acute exacerbation.

5. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being taught by a nurse. What nutrition information should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Avoid drinking fluids just before and during meals.
• B. Rest before meals if experiencing dyspnea.
• C. Consume about six small meals a day.
• D. Consume high-fiber foods to promote gastric emptying.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: While some of the other options may be helpful, the most appropriate advice for a client with COPD is to consume high-fiber foods to promote gastric emptying. Avoiding fluids just before and during meals can help prevent bloating, resting before meals can assist with dyspnea, and having several small meals a day can help reduce bloating. However, fibrous foods can lead to gas production, causing abdominal bloating and potentially worsening shortness of breath. Increasing calorie and protein intake is essential to prevent malnourishment. It is also important to avoid excessive carbohydrate intake, as it can increase carbon dioxide production and the risk of acidosis in COPD patients.

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