Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is monitoring a client following a thoracentesis. The healthcare professional should identify which of the following manifestations as a complication and contact the provider immediately?

• A. Serosanguineous drainage from the puncture site
• B. Discomfort at the puncture site
• C. Increased heart rate
• D. Decreased temperature

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Following a thoracentesis, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to monitor for potential complications. Increased heart rate can indicate hypovolemia or other serious issues, such as bleeding or pneumothorax, and requires immediate attention to prevent further complications. Serosanguineous drainage from the puncture site is a common expected finding post-procedure. Discomfort at the puncture site is also common and can be managed with appropriate interventions. Decreased temperature is not typically associated with complications following a thoracentesis. Therefore, the correct answer is increased heart rate as it signifies a potential serious complication that needs prompt medical evaluation.

2. A client is caring for a postoperative client on the surgical unit. The client's blood pressure was 142/76 mm Hg 30 minutes ago and is now 88/50 mm Hg. What action by the nurse is best?

• A. Call the Rapid Response Team.
• B. Document and continue to monitor.
• C. Notify the primary care provider.
• D. Repeat blood pressure measurement in 15 minutes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the significant drop in blood pressure indicates a potential emergency situation. The correct action is to call the Rapid Response Team (RRT) to ensure prompt intervention and prevent further deterioration that could lead to respiratory or cardiac arrest. It is crucial to act swiftly in response to such a critical change in vital signs to provide the client with the necessary care and support.

3. A client presents with shortness of breath, pain in the lung area, and a recent history of starting birth control pills and smoking. Vital signs include a heart rate of 110/min, respiratory rate of 40/min, and blood pressure of 140/80 mm Hg. Arterial blood gases reveal pH 7.50, PaCO2 29 mm Hg, PaO2 60 mm Hg, HCO3 20 mEq/L, and SaO2 86%. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Prepare for mechanical ventilation.
• B. Administer oxygen via face mask.
• C. Prepare to administer a sedative.
• D. Assess for indications of pulmonary embolism.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a client with a high respiratory rate, low PaO2, and low SaO2, the priority intervention is to improve oxygenation. Administering oxygen via a face mask will help increase the oxygen supply to the client's lungs and tissues, addressing the hypoxemia. While mechanical ventilation may be necessary in severe cases, administering oxygen is the initial and most appropriate intervention to address the client's respiratory distress. Sedatives should not be given without ensuring adequate oxygenation. Assessing for pulmonary embolism is important but not the priority at this moment when the client is experiencing respiratory distress and hypoxemia.

4. A client with tuberculosis is starting medication therapy with isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take isoniazid with an antacid.
• B. Provide a sputum specimen every 2 weeks to the clinic for testing.
• C. Expect your sputum cultures to be negative after 6 months of therapy.
• D. Drink at least 8 ounces of water when you take the pyrazinamide tablet.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pyrazinamide can cause gastrointestinal upset and is best taken with a full glass of water to minimize irritation to the stomach lining. This instruction helps reduce the risk of adverse effects associated with pyrazinamide. Options A and C are not directly related to the medication regimen for tuberculosis. While sputum testing is important, the frequency mentioned in option B is not required every two weeks.

5. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being taught by a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will avoid smoking to prevent further damage to my lungs.
• B. I will eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid feeling bloated.
• C. I will exercise every day to improve my strength and endurance.
• D. I will drink plenty of fluids to help thin my mucus.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. While exercise is important for clients with COPD, daily exercise may be too strenuous. Clients should be encouraged to exercise regularly but should be advised to avoid overexertion. Statements A, B, and D demonstrate appropriate understanding and management of COPD symptoms.

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