Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is preparing to measure the temperature of an infant. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla.
• B. Pull the pinna of the infant's ear forward before inserting the probe.
• C. Insert the probe 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) into the infant's rectum.
• D. Insert the thermometer in front of the infant's tongue.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct method for measuring an infant's temperature is by placing the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla (armpit). This method is non-invasive and safe. Pulling the pinna of the ear forward is used when taking a tympanic temperature. Inserting the probe into the rectum is done for rectal temperature measurement, which is not recommended as an initial method in infants. Inserting the thermometer in front of the infant's tongue is not a standard method for measuring temperature in infants.

2. What is the best position for a patient in 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 in respiratory distress is the Semi-Fowler's position. This position promotes lung expansion and eases breathing by allowing the chest to expand more fully. The Trendelenburg position (choice B) where the patient's feet are higher than the head is not recommended in respiratory distress as it may cause increased pressure on the chest and reduced lung expansion. The prone position (choice C) lying on the stomach is also not optimal for respiratory distress as it can further compromise breathing. The supine position (choice D) lying flat on the back is not ideal as it may impair breathing by restricting chest expansion.

3. A client who is 48 hours postoperative following abdominal surgery is being assessed by a nurse. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Heart rate of 80/min
• B. Sanguineous drainage on the surgical dressing
• C. Temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F)
• D. Serous drainage on the surgical dressing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Sanguineous drainage from the surgical site 48 hours after surgery could indicate a complication such as hemorrhage or infection and should be reported. Sanguineous drainage is typically seen in the early postoperative period due to the presence of blood. Serous drainage, on the other hand, is normal in the later stages of wound healing. A heart rate of 80/min is within the normal range for an adult. A temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F) is slightly elevated but not a concerning finding in the absence of other symptoms.

4. How should a healthcare provider respond to a patient with a history of hypertension who is non-compliant with medication?

• A. Encourage compliance through education
• B. Contact the healthcare provider
• C. Document the refusal
• D. Explore alternative treatment options

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging compliance through education is crucial in helping patients understand the importance of consistent medication use. By providing education, the patient can make informed decisions about their health and better manage their condition. Contacting the healthcare provider (choice B) may be necessary in some cases, but the initial approach should focus on patient education. Documenting the refusal (choice C) is important for legal and medical records but does not address the root cause of non-compliance. Exploring alternative treatment options (choice D) should come after efforts to educate and encourage compliance with the current medication regimen.

5. What is the best way to monitor fluid balance in a patient receiving diuretics?

• A. Monitor daily weight
• B. Monitor intake and output
• C. Monitor blood pressure
• D. Check for edema

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Daily weight monitoring is the most accurate way to assess fluid balance in patients receiving diuretics. Monitoring daily weight allows healthcare providers to track changes in fluid status more precisely. While monitoring intake and output (choice B) is essential, it may not provide a comprehensive picture of overall fluid balance. Monitoring blood pressure (choice C) is important but may not directly reflect fluid balance. Checking for edema (choice D) is useful but may not be as sensitive as daily weight monitoring in assessing fluid balance.

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