Nursing Elites

1. When changing a client's colostomy pouch and noticing peristomal skin irritation, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Change the pouch as needed based on individual requirements.
• B. Apply the pouch only when the skin barrier is completely dry.
• C. Pat the peristomal skin dry after cleaning.
• D. Ensure the pouch is 0.32 cm (1/8 in) larger than the stoma.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a nurse observes peristomal skin irritation while changing a client's colostomy pouch, it is crucial to ensure that the pouch is slightly larger (0.32 cm or 1/8 inch) than the stoma. This extra space helps prevent the pouch from rubbing against the stoma and causing further irritation. Option A is correct because colostomy pouches should be changed based on individual needs, not necessarily every 24 hours. Option B is incorrect because applying the pouch only when the skin barrier is completely dry ensures better adhesion. Option C is incorrect as patting the peristomal skin dry after cleaning is more gentle and less likely to cause irritation compared to rubbing.

2. The client is receiving discharge instructions for a new antihypertensive medication. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will stop taking the medication if I experience dizziness.
• B. I will monitor my blood pressure regularly.
• C. I will avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• D. I will rise slowly from a sitting to a standing position.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Stopping antihypertensive medication abruptly can lead to rebound hypertension, which can be dangerous. Clients should never discontinue their medication without consulting their healthcare provider first. Choice B is correct because monitoring blood pressure is essential when taking antihypertensive medication to ensure it stays within the target range. Choice C is correct as alcohol can potentiate the hypotensive effects of antihypertensive medications. Choice D is correct as orthostatic hypotension can occur, so rising slowly helps prevent dizziness and falls. Therefore, choice A is the statement that indicates a need for further teaching.

3. A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is receiving a change-of-shift report for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?

• A. A client who has new onset of dyspnea 24 hours after a total hip arthroplasty
• B. A client who has acute abdominal pain rated 4 on a scale from 0 to 10
• C. A client who has a UTI and low-grade fever
• D. A client who has pneumonia and an oxygen saturation of 96%

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should see the client who has new onset of dyspnea 24 hours after a total hip arthroplasty first. New onset of dyspnea, especially after surgery, can indicate a serious complication such as a pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis. It is essential to assess this client promptly to rule out potentially life-threatening conditions. Acute abdominal pain, a UTI with low-grade fever, and pneumonia with an oxygen saturation of 96% are important issues but do not indicate the urgency and potential severity of a post-operative complication like pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis.

4. During passive range of motion (ROM) exercises, how should the nurse perform each movement for a patient with impaired mobility?

• A. The nurse moves each movement just to the point of resistance.
• B. The patient repeats each movement 5 times.
• C. The movement continues until the patient reports pain.
• D. The nurse completes each movement quickly and smoothly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During passive range of motion (ROM) exercises, the nurse is responsible for moving the patient's joints through their range of motion. The correct technique involves performing movements slowly and smoothly, only going to the point of resistance without causing pain. This technique helps maintain joint flexibility and prevent contractures. Choice A is the correct answer as it reflects the appropriate technique for passive ROM exercises. Choices B and C are incorrect because the patient is not actively participating, and ROM exercises should not cause pain. Choice D is incorrect as movements should be done deliberately and not quickly.

5. A client who is post-op following a partial colectomy has an NG tube set on low continuous suction. The client complains of a sore throat and asks when the NG tube will be removed. Which response by the nurse is appropriate at this time?

• A. When the GI tract is working again, in about three to five days, the tube can be removed.
• B. The tube will be removed once your nausea improves.
• C. You can expect the tube to be removed in about a week.
• D. The tube will be removed once the drainage stops.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is A: 'When the GI tract is working again, in about three to five days, the tube can be removed.' After a partial colectomy, the GI tract needs time to recover and start functioning properly. The NG tube is typically removed when peristalsis returns, indicating GI function restoration, which usually occurs within 3-5 days post-op. Choice B is incorrect because the removal of the NG tube is not solely based on nausea improvement. Choice C is incorrect as it provides a longer duration for tube removal than is usually necessary. Choice D is incorrect as the cessation of drainage alone does not dictate NG tube removal; the return of GI function is the primary indicator.

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