Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is collecting data from a client who is receiving IV therapy and reports pain in the arm, chills, and 'not feeling well.' The nurse notes warmth, edema, induration, and red streaking on the client’s arm close to the IV insertion site. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

• A. Obtain a specimen for culture.
• B. Apply a warm compress.
• C. Administer analgesics.
• D. Discontinue the infusion.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Discontinuing the infusion is the first step in addressing potential complications such as phlebitis or infection. It is crucial to prevent further infusion-related damage by stopping the source of the issue. Obtaining a specimen for culture (Choice A) can be considered later to identify the specific microorganism causing the infection. Applying a warm compress (Choice B) or administering analgesics (Choice C) may provide comfort but do not address the underlying issue of infection or phlebitis, which requires immediate intervention by discontinuing the infusion.

2. At the surgical scrub sink, a surgical nurse demonstrated the proper surgical handwashing technique by scrubbing:

• A. With her hands held lower than her elbows
• B. With her hands held higher than her elbows
• C. With her hands in a fist position
• D. With hands placed on her chest

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct technique for surgical handwashing involves scrubbing with hands held higher than the elbows. This positioning helps prevent water from the contaminated area (the hands) from flowing towards the cleaner area (the elbows). This directional flow minimizes the risk of contaminating the scrubbed hands during the handwashing process. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: A - having hands lower than elbows would risk contamination of the clean area, C - using a fist position does not ensure proper coverage and thorough handwashing, and D - placing hands on the chest is not part of the proper surgical handwashing technique.

3. A client is talking with an older adult who is contemplating retirement. The client states, 'I keep thinking about how much I enjoy my job. I’m not sure I want to retire.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. Let’s talk about how the change in your job status will affect you.
• B. You should consider how retirement will affect your financial situation.
• C. Retirement is a big change, take your time to decide.
• D. Have you thought about what you will do after you retire?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is to discuss how the change in job status will affect the client. This helps the client consider the emotional and psychological impact of retirement. Choice B focuses solely on the financial aspect of retirement, which may not address the client's current concerns about enjoying their job. Choice C acknowledges the decision-making process but does not actively engage the client in exploring their feelings. Choice D shifts the focus to post-retirement plans without addressing the client's current hesitation about retiring.

4. When is a depressed client at highest risk for attempting suicide?

• A. Immediately after admission, during one-to-one observation
• B. 7 to 14 days after initiation of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy
• C. Following an angry outburst with family
• D. When the client is removed from the security room

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Depressed clients are at the highest risk of attempting suicide 7 to 14 days after starting antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. During this time, they may start to regain energy but still feel hopeless, which can increase the risk of suicidal ideation and behavior. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because immediate post-admission, after an angry outburst with family, or when removed from a security room are not specific periods known to be associated with the highest risk of suicide in depressed clients.

5. A nurse is preparing to administer 0.5 mL of oral single-dose liquid medication to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Gently shake the container of medication prior to administration
• B. Transfer the medication to a medicine cup
• C. Place the client in a semi-Fowler’s position for medication administration
• D. Verify the dosage by measuring the liquid before administering it

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take is to gently shake the container of liquid medication before administration. Shaking the container ensures proper mixing of the medication, which is important to maintain uniformity of the dose. Transferring the medication to a medicine cup (choice B) may not be necessary for a small volume like 0.5 mL. Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position (choice C) is not directly related to administering liquid medication orally. Verifying the dosage by measuring the liquid (choice D) is important but does not address the specific action needed to prepare the medication for administration.

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