Nursing Elites

1. During a screening on a patient with a recent cast on the left lower extremity, which of the following statements should the nurse be most concerned about?

• A. The patient reports, "I didn't keep my extremity elevated as the doctor asked me to."?
• B. The patient reports, "I have been having pain in my left calf."?
• C. The patient reports, "My left leg has really been itching."?
• D. The patient reports, "The arthritis in my wrists is flaring up when I put weight on my crutches."?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because pain in the left calf could indicate a potential neurovascular complication related to the casted extremity. It could suggest issues such as compartment syndrome or impaired circulation. Option A is not as concerning since not elevating the extremity may lead to swelling but is not an immediate concern. Option C indicates itching, which is common with casts and not as concerning as potential neurovascular issues. Option D, regarding arthritis in the wrists, is unrelated to the lower extremity issue being screened for.

2. A patient has been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Which of the following statements is the most applicable when discussing the impairments with Guillain-Barre Syndrome with the patient?

• A. Guillain-Barre Syndrome improves in almost all cases within 5 years.
• B. Guillain-Barre Syndrome causes limited sensation in the abdominal region.
• C. Guillain-Barre Syndrome causes muscle weakness in the legs.
• D. Guillain-Barre Syndrome affects breathing in severe cases.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement is that Guillain-Barre Syndrome causes muscle weakness in the legs. This muscle weakness typically starts in the legs and can progress to the upper body. Choice A is incorrect as while most cases do improve, the recovery time can vary. Choice B is incorrect as Guillain-Barre Syndrome primarily affects muscle weakness rather than sensation. Choice D is incorrect as severe cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome can lead to respiratory muscle weakness, impacting breathing.

3. The death of a beloved spouse places the surviving partner in which type of crisis?

• A. maturational
• B. reactive
• C. nonreactive
• D. situational

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'situational.' A situational crisis is an unexpected, unplanned event, such as the death of a spouse, which can lead to significant distress. Option A is incorrect because a maturational crisis is related to normal life transitions like getting married or retiring. Choices B and C are incorrect as they do not represent recognized crisis states in the context of the scenario provided.

4. A violation of a patient's confidentiality occurs if two nurses are discussing client information in which of the following scenarios?

• A. With a physical therapist treating the patient
• B. With a social worker planning for discharge
• C. With another nurse on duty to plan for break time
• D. In the hallway outside the patient's room

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'In the hallway outside the patient's room.' Discussing client information in a public area like a hallway can potentially breach patient confidentiality as it increases the risk of unauthorized individuals overhearing sensitive information. Choices A, B, and C involve discussing client information with other healthcare professionals in appropriate settings, which are more likely to maintain patient confidentiality compared to discussing in a public space like a hallway. Option D is the correct choice because it highlights a scenario where patient information is at higher risk of exposure to unauthorized individuals, hence violating patient confidentiality.

5. A young female teenager describes a brutal assault and rape to the nurse on duty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Check with the case manager on duty about possible police intervention.
• B. Provide an environment of concern and emotional stabilization.
• C. Clean the patient's wounds with normal saline and gauze.
• D. Refer the patient to a counselor specializing in trauma.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a situation where a patient describes a brutal assault and rape, the first priority should be to provide emotional support and create a safe and supportive environment. This helps the patient feel secure and cared for, which is crucial for their well-being at that moment. Checking with the case manager about police intervention should come after ensuring the patient's immediate emotional needs are addressed. Cleaning the patient's wounds, though important, can be secondary to providing emotional stabilization. Referring the patient to a counselor specializing in trauma is also crucial for long-term support, but the immediate focus should be on providing emotional support and stability.

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