Nursing Elites

1. During a change-of-shift assessment, a nurse is evaluating four clients. Which finding should the nurse report to the provider first?

• A. A client with cystic fibrosis who has a productive cough and reports thirst
• B. A client with gastroenteritis who is lethargic and confused
• C. A client with diabetes mellitus whose blood glucose is 185 mg/dL
• D. A client with sickle cell anemia who reports pain 15 minutes after receiving analgesics

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lethargy and confusion in a client with gastroenteritis are concerning findings that may indicate severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, requiring immediate intervention. While the other options are important, they do not pose an immediate life-threatening risk compared to the altered mental status in a client with gastroenteritis.

2. A healthcare professional is assessing a client for signs of hyperglycemia. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional look for?

• A. Increased thirst
• B. Weight gain
• C. Decreased urination
• D. Fatigue

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Increased thirst is a classic symptom of hyperglycemia due to the body trying to eliminate excess glucose through urine, leading to dehydration and increased thirst. Weight gain, decreased urination, and fatigue are not typical signs of hyperglycemia. Weight gain is more commonly associated with conditions like hypothyroidism or fluid retention. Decreased urination is not a typical symptom of hyperglycemia, as high blood sugar levels usually lead to increased urination. Fatigue can be a symptom of hyperglycemia, but it is not as specific or characteristic as increased thirst.

3. A client is preparing advance directives. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of advance directives?

• A. I cannot change my instructions once they are made
• B. My doctor will need to approve my advance directives
• C. I need an attorney to witness my signature on the advance directives
• D. I have the right to refuse treatment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'I have the right to refuse treatment.' This statement indicates an understanding of advance directives because advance directives allow individuals to express their treatment preferences, including the right to refuse treatment if they choose to do so. Choice A is incorrect because individuals can update or change their advance directives as needed. Choice B is incorrect because advance directives are based on the individual's preferences, not the doctor's approval. Choice C is incorrect as witnessing an advance directive typically requires a witness who is not an attorney, depending on the state's specific requirements.

4. A nurse is sitting with the partner of a client who recently died. Which action should the nurse take to facilitate mourning?

• A. Offer advice on coping strategies
• B. Encourage the partner to ask for help when needed
• C. Discuss the importance of grieving alone
• D. Suggest the partner avoid talking about the loss

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Encouraging the partner to ask for help when needed is the most appropriate action for the nurse to facilitate mourning. Grieving is a challenging process, and individuals may require support from others to cope effectively. Offering advice on coping strategies, discussing the importance of grieving alone, or suggesting avoiding talking about the loss could hinder the partner's mourning process by isolating them or suppressing their feelings.

5. A nurse is reviewing psychosocial stages of development for a school-age child. What would be an expected behavioral finding for this child?

• A. Personalize values and beliefs and base reasoning on ethical fairness principles.
• B. Develop a sense of personal identity that is influenced by family expectations.
• C. Develop a sense of industry through advances in learning.
• D. Take on new experiences and when unable to accomplish tasks, may feel guilty.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. School-age children (6-12 years) are in Erikson's stage of industry vs. inferiority. During this stage, they strive to develop a sense of industry through learning and socialization. They seek to excel in various areas, such as schoolwork or activities, and look for approval from peers and adults. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because personalizing values and beliefs, developing personal identity influenced by family expectations, and feeling guilty for inability to accomplish tasks are not typical behavioral findings for a school-age child in the context of psychosocial development.

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