Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is developing a care plan for a client with chronic pain. What interventions should be included to help manage pain?

• A. Administer pain medication around the clock
• B. Teach relaxation techniques
• C. Encourage physical activity
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In managing chronic pain, it is essential to employ a multi-faceted approach. Administering pain medication around the clock helps maintain consistent pain relief. Teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or guided imagery can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, which can alleviate pain. Encouraging physical activity, tailored to the client's abilities, can help improve overall physical functioning and reduce pain perception. Therefore, combining all these interventions (pain medication, relaxation techniques, and physical activity) provides a comprehensive approach to pain management, addressing different aspects of the client's experience with chronic pain. This holistic approach is more effective than using a single intervention alone, making 'All of the above' the correct choice.

2. A client with a diagnosis of chronic heart failure is receiving digoxin. What is the most important instruction the nurse should provide?

• A. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal
• B. Monitor pulse rate daily before taking the medication
• C. Avoid dairy products while on this medication
• D. Discontinue the medication if blurred vision is experienced

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most important instruction the nurse should provide is to monitor pulse rate daily before taking the medication. Digoxin can lead to bradycardia, so it is crucial to assess the pulse rate before administering the medication. This practice helps ensure that the heart rate is not too low for the safe use of digoxin. Choice A is incorrect as there is no specific requirement to take digoxin with a high-fiber meal. Choice C is also incorrect because there is no need to avoid dairy products while on digoxin. Choice D is incorrect since blurred vision is not a common side effect of digoxin; hence, it is not the most critical instruction to provide.

3. A client with a history of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is being discharged with a prescription for epoetin alfa (Epogen). What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
• B. Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
• C. Expect to feel better immediately.
• D. Avoid foods high in potassium.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Monitor your blood pressure regularly.' Epoetin alfa (Epogen) can lead to hypertension as a side effect, so it is essential for clients with CKD to monitor their blood pressure regularly. Choice A is incorrect because epoetin alfa does not need to be taken on an empty stomach. Choice C is incorrect because the client should not expect immediate improvement upon starting the medication. Choice D is incorrect because while monitoring potassium intake is important in CKD, the question specifically pertains to epoetin alfa and its side effects, not potassium intake.

4. The healthcare provider reviews the laboratory results of a client whose serum pH is 7.38. What does this value imply about the client's homeostasis?

• A. Alkalosis
• B. Acidosis
• C. Normal serum pH
• D. Incompatible with life

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A pH of 7.38 falls within the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating that the client’s acid-base balance is adequately maintained. Choices A and B are incorrect as alkalosis and acidosis refer to abnormal pH levels. Choice D is incorrect as a pH of 7.38 within the normal range is compatible with life.

5. The healthcare provider is assessing a client who has just undergone a thyroidectomy. Which assessment finding is most concerning?

• A. Hoarseness of the voice
• B. Slight swelling at the incision site
• C. Tingling around the mouth
• D. Mild fever

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Tingling around the mouth is the most concerning finding as it may indicate hypocalcemia, a potential complication after thyroidectomy. Hoarseness of the voice is common due to surgical manipulation, slight swelling at the incision site is expected postoperatively, and mild fever can be a normal inflammatory response. Hypocalcemia after thyroidectomy can lead to serious complications and should be addressed promptly to prevent further issues.

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