Nursing Elites

1. When performing an abdominal assessment on a client, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Palpate the abdomen
• B. Auscultate bowel sounds
• C. Inspect the abdomen
• D. Percuss the abdomen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate bowel sounds. This action should be taken first because it ensures that bowel sounds are not altered by physical manipulation. Inspecting the abdomen (choice C) may provide visual cues but does not address functional assessment. Palpating the abdomen (choice A) should follow auscultation to prevent altering bowel sounds. Percussing the abdomen (choice D) is typically done after auscultation and palpation.

2. A client with an indwelling urinary catheter is being cared for by a nurse. What finding indicates a catheter occlusion?

• A. Bladder distention
• B. Frequent urination
• C. Hematuria
• D. Burning sensation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Bladder distention is the correct answer as it indicates that the catheter is not draining properly, which is a sign of occlusion. Frequent urination, hematuria, and burning sensation are not indicative of a catheter occlusion. Frequent urination may suggest a bladder that is not fully emptying, hematuria indicates blood in the urine, and a burning sensation can be a sign of a urinary tract infection, none of which directly relate to a catheter occlusion.

3. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about the importance of foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Cut toenails straight across
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Soak feet in hot water daily
• D. Apply lotion between the toes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes at all times.' Clients with diabetes are at a higher risk of foot complications due to poor circulation and nerve damage. Wearing shoes at all times helps protect their feet from injuries. Choice A is incorrect because toenails should be cut straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Choice C is incorrect as soaking feet in hot water can lead to burns or skin damage, especially for those with diabetes who may have reduced sensation. Choice D is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections.

4. A nurse is teaching about food choices for a client on a low-sodium diet. What food should the nurse recommend?

• A. Canned soup
• B. Fresh fruit
• C. Processed meats
• D. Frozen meals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Fresh fruit is a good option for clients on a low-sodium diet as it is naturally low in sodium. Canned soup, processed meats, and frozen meals tend to be high in sodium due to added salt and preservatives, making them unsuitable choices for individuals on a low-sodium diet.

5. A nurse is assessing a client who reports a burning sensation at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and swollen. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Apply a cold compress
• B. Discontinue the IV line
• C. Elevate the limb
• D. Increase the IV flow rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV line. The client's symptoms of a burning sensation, redness, and swelling at the IV site indicate phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. The priority action in this situation is to remove the source of irritation, which is the IV line, to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue. Elevating the limb is not the priority in this case. Increasing the IV flow rate can worsen the phlebitis by causing further irritation to the vein.

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