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. What action is required by law when preparing to administer a controlled substance?

• A. Verify the client’s identification using two identifiers.
• B. Document the medication administration in the client’s chart immediately.
• C. Return any unused portion of the medication to the pharmacy.
• D. Have a second nurse witness the disposal of any unused portion.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Having a second nurse witness the disposal of any unused portion of a controlled substance is a legal requirement to ensure proper disposal, prevent diversion, and maintain accountability. This practice helps in reducing the risk of misuse or unauthorized access to controlled substances, enhancing patient safety, and complying with legal regulations and standards.

3. A client has a new prescription for a low-fat diet. Which of the following foods should be recommended?

• A. Bacon
• B. Whole milk
• C. Chicken breast
• D. Cheese

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When following a low-fat diet, it is essential to choose foods that are low in fat. Chicken breast is a lean protein source that is low in fat, making it a suitable option for a low-fat diet. Bacon, whole milk, and cheese are higher in fat content and should be avoided or limited in a low-fat diet. Bacon is high in saturated fat, whole milk contains significant amounts of fat, including saturated fat, and cheese is also high in fat. Therefore, these options are not ideal for a low-fat diet.

4. When assessing a client with diabetes mellitus experiencing DKA, which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Tremors
• B. Urine retention
• C. Kussmaul respirations
• D. Bradypnea

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Kussmaul respirations are a type of deep and labored breathing pattern associated with severe metabolic acidosis, commonly observed in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In DKA, the body tries to compensate for the acidic environment by increasing the respiratory rate, resulting in Kussmaul respirations. This helps eliminate excess carbon dioxide and reduce the acidity of the blood. Tremors (Choice A) are not typically associated with DKA. Urine retention (Choice B) is not a common finding in DKA; in fact, clients with DKA often have polyuria due to the osmotic diuresis caused by high blood glucose levels. Bradypnea (Choice D), which is abnormally slow breathing rate, is not a characteristic finding in DKA where the respiratory rate is usually increased to compensate for metabolic acidosis.

5. What action should be taken to prevent respiratory complications in a client who is postoperative?

• A. Encourage the use of an incentive spirometer.
• B. Restrict fluid intake.
• C. Place the client in a supine position.
• D. Administer a cough suppressant.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging the use of an incentive spirometer is crucial in preventing respiratory complications postoperatively. The incentive spirometer helps the client perform deep breathing exercises, which can prevent atelectasis (lung collapse) and promote lung expansion. This, in turn, reduces the risk of respiratory complications such as pneumonia. Restricting fluid intake, placing the client in a supine position, and administering a cough suppressant are not appropriate actions for preventing respiratory complications in a postoperative client.

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