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 healthcare professional is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who is experiencing fluid volume deficit (FVD). What finding should the professional expect?

• A. Decreased hematocrit
• B. Increased hematocrit
• C. Decreased white blood cell count
• D. Increased red blood cell count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Increased hematocrit.' In fluid volume deficit (FVD), there is a decrease in the amount of fluid in the blood vessels, leading to hemoconcentration. This results in an increase in hematocrit levels. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a decrease in hematocrit, decrease in white blood cell count, and an increase in red blood cell count are not typically seen in fluid volume deficit.

3. A nurse is preparing to perform a sterile dressing change for a client who has a surgical wound. What should the nurse do to prevent contamination?

• A. Wear non-sterile gloves
• B. Apply sterile gloves over non-sterile gloves
• C. Change gloves if the sterile solution splashes onto the sterile field
• D. Cover the sterile field with a sterile drape

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. If sterile solution splashes onto the sterile field, it is considered contaminated. Changing gloves in this situation ensures that the sterility of the dressing change is maintained. Choice A is incorrect as non-sterile gloves would introduce contaminants. Choice B is incorrect as layering gloves can increase the risk of contamination. Choice D is incorrect as covering the sterile field with a sterile drape is not the appropriate action to take in response to contamination.

4. A client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care. What instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Apply lotion between the toes after bathing
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Cut toenails in a rounded shape
• D. Inspect the feet weekly

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to wear shoes at all times. This instruction is vital for clients with diabetes mellitus as it helps protect the feet and reduces the risk of injury. Option A is incorrect as applying lotion between the toes can increase moisture and the risk of fungal infections. Option C is incorrect as cutting toenails in a rounded shape may lead to ingrown toenails. Option D is also incorrect as inspecting the feet weekly is not sufficient for proper foot care in clients with diabetes mellitus.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who reports pain and burning around the peripheral IV site. What is the nurse's priority action?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Discontinue the IV line. When a client reports pain and burning around the peripheral IV site, it indicates possible phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. The priority action is to discontinue the IV line to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Applying a warm compress (Choice A) may worsen the inflammation. Increasing the IV flow rate (Choice C) can exacerbate the symptoms and elevate the risk of complications. Elevating the limb (Choice D) may provide comfort, but it does not address the underlying issue of phlebitis. Therefore, the priority action is to discontinue the IV line.

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