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 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.

3. A nurse is assessing a client who reports pain at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and warm. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the IV infusion
• C. Apply a cold compress
• D. Increase the IV flow rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV infusion. The signs of redness and warmth at the IV site indicate phlebitis, an inflammation of the vein. Discontinuing the IV infusion is crucial to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Flushing the IV line with saline would not address the underlying issue of phlebitis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the cause. Increasing the IV flow rate can exacerbate the inflammation and should be avoided.

4. A client scheduled for cataract surgery tells the nurse, 'I see just fine and have decided to cancel my surgery.' What should the nurse do?

• A. Proceed with the surgery as planned
• B. Document the refusal and inform the surgeon
• C. Explain the benefits of the surgery
• D. Respect the client's decision

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should explain the benefits of the surgery to the client. By providing more information, the client may reconsider their decision after understanding the positive impact the surgery could have on their vision. Proceeding with the surgery against the client's wishes (Choice A) is not ethical and goes against the principle of autonomy. While documenting the refusal and informing the surgeon (Choice B) is important for the client's medical record, it is crucial to first try to educate the client about the benefits. Simply respecting the client's decision (Choice D) without attempting to provide more information may not be in the client's best interest.

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

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Wear shoes at all times.' This instruction is crucial for preventing foot injuries in clients with diabetes mellitus. Wearing shoes protects the feet from potential injuries and reduces the risk of developing foot ulcers. Cutting toenails straight across (not in a rounded shape) helps prevent ingrown toenails. Applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to dry skin and potentially cause burns, which is not recommended for individuals with diabetes.

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