Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is caring for four clients on intravenous heparin therapy. Which lab value possibly indicates a serious side effect has occurred?

• A. Hemoglobin: 14.2 g/dL
• B. Platelet count: 82,000/µL
• C. RBC count: 4.8 x 10^6/µL
• D. WBC count: 8.7 x 10^3/µL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A low platelet count, as seen in choice B, is concerning as it could indicate heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, a serious side effect of heparin therapy. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia can lead to an increased risk of blood clotting, potentially causing severe complications. Monitoring platelet counts is crucial during heparin therapy to promptly identify and manage this adverse effect.

2. A nursing student is providing tracheostomy care. What action by the student requires intervention by the instructor?

• A. Holding the device securely when changing ties
• B. Suctioning the client first if secretions are present
• C. Tying a square knot at the back of the neck
• D. Using half-strength peroxide for cleansing

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When providing tracheostomy care, it is important to ensure the client's safety and prevent pressure ulcers. When securing ties that require knotting, the knot should be placed at the side of the client's neck, not at the back. Tying a square knot at the back of the neck could lead to discomfort, pressure ulcers, or accidental tightening. Holding the device securely, suctioning the client as needed, and using appropriate cleansing solutions are all essential components of tracheostomy care.

3. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being assessed by a nurse. Which finding should the nurse expect?

• A. Increased anterior-posterior (AP) chest diameter
• B. Decreased respiratory rate
• C. Weight gain
• D. Productive cough with yellow sputum

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), clients often develop a barrel chest, characterized by an increased anterior-posterior diameter of the chest due to hyperinflation of the lungs. This change in chest shape is a common finding in COPD. Decreased respiratory rate, weight gain, and productive cough with yellow sputum are not typical findings associated with COPD.

4. A nurse cares for a female client who has a family history of cystic fibrosis. The client asks, Will my children have cystic fibrosis? How should the nurse respond?

• A. Since many of your family members are carriers, your children will also be carriers of the gene.
• B. Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disorder. If you are a carrier, your children will have the disorder.
• C. Since you have a family history of cystic fibrosis, I would encourage you & your partner to be tested.
• D. Cystic fibrosis is caused by a protein that controls the movement of chloride. Adjusting your diet will decrease the spread of this disorder.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disorder in which both gene alleles must be mutated for the disorder to be expressed. The nurse should encourage both the client & partner to be tested for the abnormal gene. The other statements are not true.

5. A client has an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Initiate oxygen therapy at 2 liters per minute via nasal cannula.
• B. Place the client in a high-Fowler's position.
• C. Notify the healthcare provider.
• D. Document the finding in the client's medical record.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority action for a client with an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air is to initiate oxygen therapy to improve oxygen saturation levels. Oxygen therapy is crucial to address hypoxemia promptly. Placing the client in a high-Fowler's position can also aid in oxygenation, but administering oxygen takes precedence. While notifying the healthcare provider is important, it is a secondary action after ensuring the client's immediate need for oxygen is met. Documenting the finding in the client's medical record is necessary for continuity of care but is not the primary intervention when addressing hypoxemia.

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