Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer digoxin to a client with heart failure. Which of the following laboratory values should the professional report to the provider?

• A. Potassium 4.0 mEq/L
• B. Calcium 9.5 mg/dL
• C. Sodium 140 mEq/L
• D. Magnesium 2.0 mg/dL

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sodium 140 mEq/L. An elevated sodium level can affect the effectiveness of digoxin therapy and may lead to toxicity. Therefore, it is crucial to report this value to the provider. Potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels are important as well, but elevated sodium can have a more direct impact on digoxin therapy in this scenario.

2. What is the best position for a patient with respiratory distress?

• A. Semi-Fowler's position
• B. Trendelenburg position
• C. Prone position
• D. Supine position

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best position for a patient with respiratory distress is the Semi-Fowler's position. This position promotes lung expansion and improves oxygenation by allowing the chest to expand more fully. The Trendelenburg position, where the patient's feet are higher than the head, is contraindicated in respiratory distress as it can increase pressure on the diaphragm and compromise breathing. The prone position, lying face down, may be beneficial in certain cases like acute respiratory distress syndrome but is not generally recommended for all patients in respiratory distress. The supine position, lying flat on the back, can worsen respiratory distress by causing the tongue to fall back and obstruct the airway.

3. When using an IV pump for a newly admitted client, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Grasp the IV pump cord when unplugging it from the electrical outlet.
• B. Ensure the pump is plugged into an outlet with two prongs.
• C. Hold the IV pump cord while walking the client.
• D. Check for malfunctioning pump alerts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when using an IV pump for a newly admitted client is to hold the IV pump cord while walking the client. This is important for ensuring the safe and secure management of the IV pump during client mobility. Option A is incorrect as grasping the IV pump cord when unplugging it can lead to electrical hazards. Option B is incorrect as ensuring the pump is plugged into an outlet with two prongs is important for electrical safety but not directly related to the nurse's action. Option D is also important but does not directly address the nurse's immediate action while using the IV pump with the client.

4. A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is prescribed home oxygen. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

• A. Check your oxygen equipment daily for proper function.
• B. Increase the oxygen flow rate if you feel short of breath.
• C. Store your oxygen tanks lying flat on the floor.
• D. It is safe to smoke as long as you are more than 10 feet from the oxygen source.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement for the nurse to make is to advise the client to check the oxygen equipment daily for proper function. This is crucial to ensure the client's home oxygen therapy is working effectively and safely. Choice B is incorrect because adjusting the oxygen flow rate without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous. Choice C is incorrect as oxygen tanks should be stored upright, not lying flat. Choice D is incorrect and unsafe advice, as smoking near an oxygen source can lead to a fire hazard.

5. A client has deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Apply cold compresses to the affected extremity.
• B. Massage the affected extremity every 2 hours.
• C. Elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart.
• D. Keep the affected extremity dependent when sitting.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is to elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart. This position promotes venous return, reduces swelling, and helps prevent complications such as pulmonary embolism. Applying cold compresses (choice A) can vasoconstrict blood vessels, potentially worsening the condition. Massaging the affected extremity (choice B) can dislodge the clot and lead to serious complications. Keeping the affected extremity dependent when sitting (choice D) can hinder venous return and exacerbate the DVT.

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