Nursing Elites

1. A client requires gastric decompression, and a nurse is inserting an NG tube. Which action should the nurse take to verify proper placement of the tube?

• A. Assess the client for a gag reflex
• B. Measure the pH of the gastric aspirate
• C. Place the end of the NG tube in water to observe for bubbling
• D. Auscultate 2.5 cm (1 in) above the umbilicus while injecting 15 mL of sterile water

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Measuring the pH of the gastric aspirate is the most reliable method to confirm proper placement of an NG tube. Gastric fluid has an acidic pH, typically ranging from 1 to 5. Assessing the client for a gag reflex (choice A) is important for airway protection but does not confirm tube placement. Placing the NG tube in water to observe for bubbling (choice C) is incorrect and not a reliable method for verifying placement. Auscultating 2.5 cm above the umbilicus while injecting sterile water (choice D) is an outdated method and is not recommended for verifying NG tube placement.

2. The nurse plans to assist a male client out of bed for the first time since his surgery yesterday. His wife objects and tells the nurse to get out of the room because her husband is too ill to get out of bed.

• A. Administer nasal oxygen at a rate of 5 L/min
• B. Help the client to lie back down in the bed
• C. Quickly pivot the client to the chair and elevate the legs
• D. Check the client’s blood pressure and pulse deficit

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Checking the client’s blood pressure and pulse deficit is essential before mobilizing a client out of bed, especially after surgery. This assessment helps ensure the client's stability and readiness for mobilization. Administering oxygen or pivoting the client without prior assessment could pose risks if the client is not medically stable. Helping the client lie back down without proper evaluation may delay necessary interventions if the client is indeed ready for mobilization.

3. After completing an assessment and determining that a client has a problem, what should the LPN/LVN do next?

• A. Determine the etiology of the problem.
• B. Prioritize nursing care interventions.
• C. Plan appropriate interventions.
• D. Collaborate with the client to set goals.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: After identifying a problem in a client, the next step for the LPN/LVN is to determine the etiology or cause of the problem. Understanding the root cause of the issue is essential as it guides the development of appropriate interventions. Option B, prioritizing nursing care interventions, is premature without knowing the cause of the problem. Option C, planning appropriate interventions, also relies on knowing the etiology first to ensure the interventions directly address the underlying issue. Collaborating with the client to set goals, as mentioned in option D, is important but typically comes after understanding the cause of the problem to ensure the goals are relevant and effective.

4. A client with brain cancer is transferring to hospice care. The client's son tells the nurse, 'I don’t know what to tell my dad if he asks how he is going to die.' Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. “Let’s talk more about your dad’s condition.”
• B. “The social worker will help you answer those questions.”
• C. “I think that you should discuss this with the hospice nurse.”
• D. “Try to help your dad enjoy this time as much as he can.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Choosing option D, 'Try to help your dad enjoy this time as much as he can,' is the most appropriate response by the nurse. This response shows empathy and compassion towards the client and their family during this difficult transition. The focus on supporting the client in enjoying their remaining time reflects a holistic approach to care. Options A, B, and C are not the best responses in this situation. Option A could lead to unnecessary details that might be overwhelming for the family. Option B shifts the responsibility to the social worker without providing immediate support. Option C deflects the son's concerns to another healthcare professional when emotional support is needed.

5. A client with hypertension is prescribed a low-sodium diet. Which food should the LPN/LVN recommend the client avoid?

• A. Fresh fruits
• B. Grilled chicken
• C. Whole grain bread
• D. Canned soup

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, canned soup. Canned soup is often high in sodium, which contradicts the low-sodium diet prescribed for hypertension. Fresh fruits (A) are generally low in sodium and are a healthy choice. Grilled chicken (B) is a lean protein option that is suitable for a low-sodium diet. Whole grain bread (C) is also a good choice as it is not typically high in sodium. Therefore, the LPN/LVN should recommend avoiding canned soup to adhere to the low-sodium dietary restrictions.

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