Nursing Elites

1. A client who had a colon resection and a new ascending colostomy is receiving discharge teaching from a nurse. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. My stool will become fully formed within 3 weeks.
• B. My skin should be cleaned with alcohol before applying a new pouch.
• C. I should avoid eating popcorn and fresh pineapple.
• D. I should expect bruising around the stoma.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because avoiding popcorn and fresh pineapple helps prevent complications with an ascending colostomy. Statements A, B, and D are incorrect. Statement A is inaccurate as it takes time for bowel function to normalize after surgery. Statement B is incorrect as alcohol can be irritating to the skin; gentle soap and water are recommended for cleaning. Statement D is incorrect as bruising around the stoma is not an expected outcome of colostomy creation.

2. How should a healthcare provider manage a patient with chronic heart failure?

• A. Monitor daily weight
• B. Provide fluid restriction
• C. Administer diuretics
• D. Monitor intake and output

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Daily weight monitoring is crucial in managing patients with chronic heart failure as it helps assess fluid balance. Monitoring daily weight allows healthcare providers to detect any sudden weight gain, which could indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure. This intervention helps in adjusting treatment plans promptly. Providing fluid restriction (Choice B) can be a part of managing heart failure but is not the primary intervention mentioned in the question. Administering diuretics (Choice C) is a treatment modality for heart failure but does not encompass the comprehensive approach to patient management. Monitoring intake and output (Choice D) is important but does not specifically address the direct assessment of fluid status as daily weight monitoring does.

3. A client with heart failure is prescribed furosemide. What finding should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Sodium 140 mEq/L
• B. Heart rate of 82/min
• C. Potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L
• D. Oxygen saturation 95%

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is low and should be reported to the provider. Furosemide can cause potassium depletion, leading to hypokalemia. Low potassium levels can result in cardiac dysrhythmias, which is a serious concern in clients with heart failure. Choices A, B, and D are within normal ranges and do not require immediate reporting. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L, heart rate of 82/min, and oxygen saturation of 95% are all acceptable findings.

4. Which electrolyte imbalance should be closely monitored in patients on diuretics?

• A. Hypokalemia
• B. Hyponatremia
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hypercalcemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypokalemia. Patients on diuretics are at risk of developing hypokalemia due to increased potassium excretion by the kidneys. Hypokalemia can lead to serious consequences such as cardiac arrhythmias. Hyponatremia (choice B) is an imbalance of sodium levels and is not typically associated with diuretic use. Hyperkalemia (choice C) is the opposite condition where potassium levels are elevated and is less common in patients on diuretics. Hypercalcemia (choice D) is an excess of calcium in the blood and is not directly related to diuretic use. Therefore, monitoring for hypokalemia is crucial in patients taking diuretics.

5. A nurse is assessing a client who has a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Redness at the insertion site.
• B. Swelling of the arm above the insertion site.
• C. A bruised area around the insertion site.
• D. A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F).

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Swelling of the arm above the insertion site is concerning as it can indicate complications like thrombosis, which require immediate attention. Redness at the insertion site is common and expected in the initial stages. A bruised area around the insertion site may result from the insertion procedure and is usually not alarming unless it worsens or becomes larger. A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is within the normal range and is not directly related to PICC complications.

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