Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer IV fluids to a client. The professional notes sparks when plugging in the IV pump. Which of the following actions should the professional take first?

• A. Label the pump with a defective equipment sticker.
• B. Unplug the pump.
• C. Obtain a replacement pump.
• D. Notify the maintenance department to fix the pump.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unplugging the pump is the correct initial action in this situation to prevent any potential fire hazards. Sparks when plugging in the IV pump indicate an electrical issue that can lead to a fire. By immediately unplugging the pump, the healthcare professional ensures the safety of the client and prevents any further risks. Labeling the pump with a defective equipment sticker (Choice A) is not the priority as the immediate concern is safety. Obtaining a replacement pump (Choice C) can be considered after addressing the safety issue. Notifying the maintenance department (Choice D) is important but should follow the immediate action of unplugging the pump to mitigate the risk.

2. The nurse is assessing a client who has just been admitted with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Which finding is most important for the LPN/LVN to report to the healthcare provider immediately?

• A. Elevated serum lipase level
• B. Severe abdominal pain
• C. Nausea and vomiting
• D. Hypotension

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hypotension is a critical finding that should be reported immediately in a client with acute pancreatitis as it may indicate severe complications such as hemorrhage or shock. While elevated serum lipase level, severe abdominal pain, and nausea/vomiting are common manifestations of acute pancreatitis, hypotension is a more urgent sign requiring immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. Hypotension can be a sign of significant fluid loss, hemorrhage, or sepsis, which are potentially life-threatening conditions that need prompt intervention. Elevated serum lipase levels, severe abdominal pain, and nausea/vomiting are important in the assessment of pancreatitis but do not indicate the same level of immediate danger as hypotension does.

3. Which nursing diagnosis would be a priority for a client admitted with a CVA (cerebral vascular accident)?

• A. Risk for aspiration
• B. Impaired physical mobility
• C. Disturbed sensory perception
• D. Interrupted family processes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Risk for aspiration' as it is a priority concern in clients with a CVA due to potential swallowing difficulties. Aspiration poses immediate risks such as pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Impaired physical mobility, while important, may not be as urgent as the risk for aspiration in this scenario. Disturbed sensory perception and interrupted family processes are not typically the most critical concerns in the acute phase of a CVA.

4. A nurse manager is overseeing the care on a unit. Which of the following should the nurse manager identify as a violation of HIPAA guidelines?

• A. A nurse who is caring for a client reviews the client's medical chart with the nursing student who is working with the nurse.
• B. A nurse asks a nurse from another unit to assist with her documentation.
• C. A nurse who is caring for a client returns a call to the client's durable power of attorney for health care designee to discuss the client's care.
• D. A nurse discusses a client's status with the physical therapist who is caring for the client at the bedside.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. HIPAA guidelines specify that only healthcare professionals directly involved in a patient's care should access their medical information. Asking a nurse from another unit to assist with documentation involves sharing patient information with someone not directly caring for the patient, which violates HIPAA guidelines. Choices A, C, and D involve individuals directly involved in the client's care, making them appropriate actions in line with HIPAA regulations. Choice A involves educating a nursing student under the supervision of the nurse, which is permissible. Choice C involves communicating with the client's designated healthcare decision-maker, which is also allowed under HIPAA. Choice D involves discussing the client's status with another healthcare professional directly involved in the client's care, which is within HIPAA guidelines.

5. A client is talking with an older adult who is contemplating retirement. The client states, 'I keep thinking about how much I enjoy my job. I’m not sure I want to retire.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. Let’s talk about how the change in your job status will affect you.
• B. You should consider how retirement will affect your financial situation.
• C. Retirement is a big change, take your time to decide.
• D. Have you thought about what you will do after you retire?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is to discuss how the change in job status will affect the client. This helps the client consider the emotional and psychological impact of retirement. Choice B focuses solely on the financial aspect of retirement, which may not address the client's current concerns about enjoying their job. Choice C acknowledges the decision-making process but does not actively engage the client in exploring their feelings. Choice D shifts the focus to post-retirement plans without addressing the client's current hesitation about retiring.

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