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 nurse is assessing the IV infusion site of a client who reports pain at the site. The site is red, and there is warmth along the course of the vein. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the infusion
• C. Elevate the limb
• D. Apply a cold compress

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the infusion. The symptoms described - pain, redness, and warmth along the vein - are indicative of phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. Continuing the infusion can lead to further complications. Flushing the IV line, elevating the limb, or applying a cold compress do not address the underlying issue of phlebitis and may not be sufficient to resolve the problem. Therefore, the priority action is to discontinue the infusion to prevent worsening of the condition.

3. 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.

4. A healthcare professional is performing a focused assessment on a client who has a history of COPD and is experiencing dyspnea. What finding should the healthcare professional expect?

• A. Decreased respiratory rate
• B. Flushing of the skin
• C. Flaring of the nostrils
• D. Productive cough

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Flaring of the nostrils is a sign of increased respiratory effort, which is common in clients with COPD experiencing dyspnea. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. A decreased respiratory rate is not expected in a client with COPD experiencing dyspnea, as they often have an increased respiratory rate. Flushing of the skin is not a typical finding associated with COPD or dyspnea. While a productive cough can be seen in COPD, it is not specifically related to the increased respiratory effort seen with dyspnea.

5. A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client with a prescription for home oxygen therapy. What information should the nurse include?

• A. Use synthetic fabrics to avoid static electricity
• B. Turn off the oxygen when not in use
• C. Avoid open flames or smoking near oxygen
• D. Increase the oxygen flow rate as needed

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Avoid open flames or smoking near oxygen.' This information is crucial to prevent fires because oxygen supports combustion. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is not relevant to oxygen therapy. Choice B is incorrect as oxygen should not be turned off when in use as prescribed. Choice D is incorrect because adjusting the oxygen flow rate without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous.

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