Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment for a client. Which action should the nurse take?

• A. Palpate the abdomen before auscultation
• B. Inspect the abdomen after palpation
• C. Auscultate before palpation
• D. Start by percussing the abdomen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate before palpation when performing an abdominal assessment. This sequence is crucial to prevent altering bowel sounds. Starting with palpation (Choice A) can lead to false interpretations of bowel sounds due to stimulation of the intestines. Inspecting the abdomen after palpation (Choice B) can also potentially alter the assessment findings. Starting with percussion (Choice D) is not recommended as it should come after auscultation to further assess underlying structures.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who reports pain and tenderness at the site of an indwelling urinary catheter. What is the nurse's first action?

• A. Irrigate the catheter with normal saline
• B. Notify the provider
• C. Assess for signs of infection
• D. Administer prescribed antibiotics

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse to take when a client reports pain and tenderness at the site of an indwelling urinary catheter is to notify the provider. Pain and tenderness at the catheter site may indicate infection, and the healthcare provider needs to be informed for further assessment and appropriate interventions. Irrigating the catheter with normal saline (Choice A) should not be the initial action without consulting the provider first. While assessing for signs of infection (Choice C) is important, notifying the provider takes precedence. Administering prescribed antibiotics (Choice D) should only be done based on the provider's orders after assessment and confirmation of infection.

3. A client who has recently developed fever, confusion, and a decreased level of consciousness is being admitted by a nurse. What should the nurse do first after obtaining the client's history and assessment?

• A. Administer prescribed antibiotics
• B. Initiate seizure precautions
• C. Identify the client's needs
• D. Place the client in isolation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to identify the client's needs first. This allows the nurse to prioritize interventions based on the assessment findings. Administering prescribed antibiotics (choice A) should be based on a medical prescription and the identified infection. Initiating seizure precautions (choice B) is important but not the immediate priority in this case. Placing the client in isolation (choice D) is premature as the nurse needs to first assess and address the client's condition.

4. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care by a nurse. What statement indicates understanding?

• A. I will soak my feet in hot water every day
• B. I will wear cotton socks at all times
• C. I will cut my toenails in a rounded shape
• D. I will apply lotion between my toes after bathing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Wearing cotton socks is essential for clients with diabetes as it helps protect the feet and reduces the risk of skin breakdown. Choice A is incorrect because soaking feet in hot water can lead to burns or skin damage. Choice C is incorrect as clients with diabetes should cut their toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Choice D is incorrect as applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment that may increase the risk of fungal infections.

5. A charge nurse is making assignments for the upcoming shift. Which client should the charge nurse assign to a licensed practical nurse (LPN)?

• A. A client requiring IV antibiotics for pneumonia
• B. A client requiring monitoring for dehydration
• C. A client with dehydration and inflammatory bowel disease
• D. A client admitted for surgical wound care

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because a client with dehydration and inflammatory bowel disease is stable enough for care by an LPN. This condition does not require complex interventions that would necessitate a higher level of nursing care. Choice A is incorrect as administering IV antibiotics for pneumonia requires a higher level of nursing expertise. Choice B is incorrect because monitoring for dehydration may involve assessing vital signs and making critical decisions. Choice D is incorrect as providing care for surgical wound care involves wound assessment, dressing changes, and monitoring for signs of infection, which typically require a registered nurse.

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