Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment. What action should the healthcare provider take first?

• A. Inspect the abdomen
• B. Auscultate bowel sounds
• C. Palpate the abdomen
• D. Percuss the abdomen

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct first action in a routine abdominal assessment is to inspect the abdomen. This allows the healthcare provider to visually assess for any visible abnormalities such as scars, distention, or masses. Auscultating bowel sounds comes after inspection as the second step to assess bowel motility. Palpation and percussion follow in the sequence of a comprehensive abdominal assessment. Therefore, inspecting the abdomen is the priority to gather initial information before proceeding with further assessment techniques.

2. A client has a new prescription for a cane. What instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Hold the cane on the weaker side
• B. Ensure the cane has a rubber tip
• C. Keep the cane on the dominant side
• D. Use the cane only on stairs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include is to ensure the cane has a rubber tip. This is important as it prevents slipping and ensures safety while walking. Choice A is incorrect because the cane should be held on the stronger side to provide better support. Choice C is incorrect as the cane should be used on the stronger, not the dominant, side for stability. Choice D is incorrect because a cane can be used for support in various situations, not just on stairs.

3. A nurse is updating the plan of care for a client with limited mobility. What intervention should the nurse include to prevent skin breakdown?

• A. Reposition the client every 4 hours
• B. Apply lotion to the skin every 2 hours
• C. Use a special mattress to reduce pressure on the skin
• D. Increase fluid intake to promote skin hydration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Use a special mattress to reduce pressure on the skin.' This intervention is crucial in preventing skin breakdown in clients with limited mobility as it helps to reduce pressure on bony prominences. Repositioning every 4 hours (Choice A) is important but may not be sufficient to prevent skin breakdown entirely. Applying lotion every 2 hours (Choice B) may not address the root cause of skin breakdown related to pressure. Increasing fluid intake (Choice D) is beneficial for overall skin health but may not directly prevent skin breakdown caused by pressure points.

4. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about the importance of foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Cut toenails straight across
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Soak feet in hot water daily
• D. Apply lotion between the toes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes at all times.' Clients with diabetes are at a higher risk of foot complications due to poor circulation and nerve damage. Wearing shoes at all times helps protect their feet from injuries. Choice A is incorrect because toenails should be cut straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Choice C is incorrect as soaking feet in hot water can lead to burns or skin damage, especially for those with diabetes who may have reduced sensation. Choice D is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections.

5. A nurse is preparing to perform an abdominal assessment on a client. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Percuss the abdomen
• B. Inspect the abdomen
• C. Auscultate before palpation
• D. Palpate the abdomen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate before palpation. This ensures that bowel sounds are not altered by physical manipulation. Inspecting the abdomen is a valid step but not the first. Percussing and palpating should come after auscultation to prevent altering bowel sounds or causing discomfort to the client.

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