Nursing Elites

1. When preparing to insert an NG tube for a client who requires gastric decompression, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Position the client with the head of the bed elevated to 30° prior to insertion
• B. Measure the tube from the client's nose to the earlobe to the xiphoid process
• C. Lubricate the entire length of the tube with water-soluble lubricant
• D. Instruct the client to cough during insertion

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Measuring the tube from the client's nose to the earlobe to the xiphoid process ensures the tube is inserted to the correct depth. This measurement helps prevent complications such as tube misplacement or lung insertion. Positioning the client with the head of the bed elevated to 30° is important to facilitate easier insertion but is not the most crucial step. Lubricating the entire length of the tube with water-soluble lubricant is essential for smooth insertion but is not the most critical action. Instructing the client to cough during insertion is not necessary and may lead to unnecessary discomfort.

2. A client with pancreatitis is being taught about dietary management. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should increase my intake of high-fat foods.
• B. I should decrease my intake of high-fat foods.
• C. I should increase my intake of high-protein foods.
• D. I should decrease my intake of high-protein foods.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Decreasing the intake of high-fat foods is essential in managing pancreatitis as high-fat foods can exacerbate symptoms and lead to complications. By reducing high-fat foods in their diet, the client demonstrates an understanding of the dietary management needed for pancreatitis. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Increasing high-fat foods (Choice A) is not recommended for pancreatitis as it can worsen the condition. While high-protein foods (Choice C) can be beneficial in some cases, the primary focus in pancreatitis management is on reducing fat intake. Decreasing high-protein foods (Choice D) is not a key dietary management approach for pancreatitis.

3. A client with a new diagnosis of hypothyroidism is being taught about medication management. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You should take your medication with a high-fiber meal.
• B. You should take your medication on an empty stomach.
• C. You should take your medication with a calcium supplement.
• D. You should take your medication before bedtime.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'You should take your medication on an empty stomach.' When educating a client with hypothyroidism, it is essential to advise taking thyroid medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption and effectiveness. Taking the medication with food, especially high-fiber or with supplements like calcium, can interfere with absorption and reduce its efficacy. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to follow the recommendation of taking the medication on an empty stomach. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because taking the medication with a high-fiber meal (Choice A) or with a calcium supplement (Choice C) can hinder absorption, and taking it before bedtime (Choice D) does not optimize absorption compared to taking it on an empty stomach.

4. When should discharge planning begin for a client admitted to a long-term care facility for rehabilitation after a total hip arthroplasty?

• A. One week prior to the client's discharge
• B. Upon the client's admission to the care facility
• C. Once the discharge date is identified
• D. When the client addresses the topic with the nurse

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Discharge planning should begin upon the client's admission to the care facility. This early start allows the healthcare team to conduct assessments, set goals, and coordinate services for a smooth transition back home or to the community. Initiating discharge planning early ensures timely arrangements, leading to optimal outcomes and continuity of care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because waiting until one week before discharge, after the discharge date is identified, or until the client brings up the topic may lead to rushed decision-making, inadequate arrangements, and a less effective transition process.

5. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a prescription for digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take your pulse before taking the medication.
• B. Take the medication with an antacid.
• C. Double the dose if you miss one.
• D. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take your pulse before taking the medication.' When administering digoxin, it is crucial to monitor the pulse rate because digoxin can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate). Checking the pulse helps in assessing the heart rate before taking the medication, as bradycardia is a common side effect of digoxin. Choice B is incorrect because digoxin should not be taken with antacids, as they can reduce its absorption. Choice C is incorrect; the dose should never be doubled if a dose is missed. Choice D is incorrect because taking digoxin with a high-fiber meal can also affect its absorption. Therefore, the essential instruction for the client is to monitor the pulse before taking digoxin.

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