Nursing Elites

1. A client is still experiencing mild back pain after receiving analgesia 1 hour ago. Which of the following nonpharmacological pain management techniques should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Encourage the client to apply a heating pad for 2 hours at a time
• B. Apply an ice pack to the client’s back for 1 hour
• C. Remove distractions from the client’s room
• D. Instruct the client to take deep, rhythmic breaths

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should instruct the client to take deep, rhythmic breaths as a nonpharmacological pain management technique. Deep, rhythmic breathing helps with relaxation and pain management, potentially reducing the perception of pain. Encouraging the client to apply a heating pad for 2 hours at a time (Choice A) is not recommended as prolonged heat application can lead to tissue damage and is not suitable for mild back pain. Applying an ice pack for 1 hour (Choice B) may not be appropriate for mild back pain as cold therapy is more commonly used for acute injuries. Removing distractions from the client’s room (Choice C) may help create a more calming environment, but it does not directly address the client's pain.

2. While caring for an older adult client who is violent and attempting to disconnect her IV lines, the provider prescribes soft wrist restraints. Which of the following actions should the nurse take while the client is in restraints?

• A. Remove the restraints one at a time
• B. Secure the restraints tightly to prevent movement
• C. Check the restraints every hour
• D. Use leather restraints for additional security

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Removing restraints one at a time is the correct action to take when caring for a client in soft wrist restraints. This approach ensures safety and comfort while still maintaining the necessary restrictions. Choice B is incorrect as securing the restraints tightly can lead to circulatory issues and discomfort. Choice C of checking the restraints every hour is a reasonable action, but it is not the priority when compared to the correct choice of removing the restraints one at a time. Choice D of using leather restraints for additional security is unnecessary and may be more restrictive and uncomfortable for the client.

3. During the physical assessment of a client, which technique should a nurse use when performing a Romberg's test?

• A. Touch the client's face with a cotton ball
• B. Apply a vibrating tuning fork to the client's forehead
• C. Have the client stand with arms at her sides and feet together
• D. Perform direct percussion over the area of the kidneys

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a Romberg's test, the nurse assesses the client's balance. Having the client stand with arms at her sides and feet together is the correct technique. This position helps the nurse observe for swaying or loss of balance, indicating alterations in balance. Choices A and B are incorrect as they are not part of Romberg's test and do not assess balance. Choice D is also incorrect as direct percussion over the kidneys is not associated with a Romberg's test.

4. A client has a new prescription for nitroglycerin sublingual tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Place the tablet under your tongue and let it dissolve completely.
• C. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
• D. Chew the tablet for faster relief.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed nitroglycerin sublingual tablets is to place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve completely. This route of administration allows for rapid absorption of the medication through the oral mucosa, providing quick relief for angina symptoms. Option A, taking the medication with food, is incorrect as nitroglycerin should be taken sublingually, not with food. Option C, swallowing the tablet whole with water, is incorrect as sublingual tablets should not be swallowed whole. Option D, chewing the tablet for faster relief, is also incorrect as chewing the tablet can lead to rapid absorption and potential adverse effects rather than a controlled release for angina relief.

5. A client with a history of seizures is prescribed phenytoin (Dilantin). What side effect should the healthcare provider report immediately?

• A. Increased appetite
• B. Dry mouth
• C. Nausea and vomiting
• D. Gingival hyperplasia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Gingival hyperplasia is a significant side effect associated with phenytoin therapy. It is characterized by an overgrowth of gum tissue, which can lead to issues such as difficulty in speaking, eating, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. This condition can progress rapidly and may require immediate intervention by the healthcare provider to prevent further complications. Increased appetite, dry mouth, and nausea/vomiting are common side effects of various medications, but they are not as urgent or serious as gingival hyperplasia in a client taking phenytoin.

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