Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is collecting data from a male client who is scheduled for a left inguinal herniorrhaphy. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

• A. High blood pressure
• B. Decreased bowel sounds
• C. Constipation
• D. Difficulty urinating

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Difficulty urinating.' This finding is crucial to report promptly as it can indicate a complication, such as urinary retention or injury to the urinary tract, which are significant concerns post-hernia surgery. High blood pressure (Choice A) may require monitoring but is not as urgent as difficulty urinating. Decreased bowel sounds (Choice B) and constipation (Choice C) are common after surgery and may resolve with appropriate interventions but are not as critical as addressing difficulty urinating.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who delivered a full-term newborn 16 hours ago. The nurse notes excessive lochia discharge. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Administer pain medication
• B. Perform a fundal massage
• C. Check the baby's heart rate
• D. Apply an ice pack

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Performing a fundal massage is the priority action in a postpartum client experiencing excessive lochia discharge. Fundal massage helps prevent postpartum hemorrhage by ensuring the uterus contracts effectively. Administering pain medication, checking the baby's heart rate, and applying an ice pack are not the initial interventions needed to address excessive lochia discharge.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 days postoperative following abdominal surgery and has a new prescription for a regular diet. For which of the following findings should the nurse notify the provider?

• A. Presence of bowel sounds
• B. Client reports nausea
• C. Client is vomiting
• D. Absent bowel sounds

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Absent bowel sounds are concerning as they indicate potential complications such as ileus, which is a risk after abdominal surgery. The absence of bowel sounds can suggest decreased or absent intestinal motility, which may lead to complications if not addressed promptly. The nurse should notify the provider immediately to assess the situation and intervene accordingly. Choices A and B are common postoperative occurrences and do not necessarily warrant immediate provider notification. Choice C, vomiting, while concerning, may be a common postoperative symptom; however, absent bowel sounds are a more critical finding that requires prompt attention.

4. What is the most important action when providing wound care to a client with a pressure ulcer?

• A. Apply a dry, sterile dressing to the wound
• B. Cleanse the wound with normal saline
• C. Perform a wound culture before applying ointment
• D. Cover the wound with a wet-to-dry dressing

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Performing a wound culture before applying ointment is crucial when providing wound care to a client with a pressure ulcer. This action helps identify any underlying infections, allowing healthcare providers to select the most appropriate treatment. Options A, B, and D are not as critical as performing a wound culture, as they focus on wound dressing and cleansing rather than identifying potential infections.

5. What is an important consideration when administering a blood transfusion?

• A. Ensure the blood is compatible with the recipient's blood type
• B. Warm the blood to body temperature before administration
• C. Check the blood for clots before administration
• D. Ensure the recipient eats before the transfusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to ensure the blood is compatible with the recipient's blood type. This is crucial to prevent transfusion reactions, which can be life-threatening. Choice B is incorrect because warming blood to body temperature is not a standard practice and may lead to hemolysis. Choice C is incorrect as blood products are carefully screened for clots before distribution. Choice D is incorrect because it is not necessary for the recipient to eat before a blood transfusion.

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