Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a prescription for digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take your pulse before taking the medication.
• B. Take the medication with an antacid.
• C. Double the dose if you miss one.
• D. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take your pulse before taking the medication.' When administering digoxin, it is crucial to monitor the pulse rate because digoxin can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate). Checking the pulse helps in assessing the heart rate before taking the medication, as bradycardia is a common side effect of digoxin. Choice B is incorrect because digoxin should not be taken with antacids, as they can reduce its absorption. Choice C is incorrect; the dose should never be doubled if a dose is missed. Choice D is incorrect because taking digoxin with a high-fiber meal can also affect its absorption. Therefore, the essential instruction for the client is to monitor the pulse before taking digoxin.

2. When assessing a client with chronic pain, which of the following is the most reliable indicator of the client's pain?

• A. The client's vital signs.
• B. The client's self-report of pain.
• C. The client's body language.
• D. The client's medical history.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client's self-report of pain is the most reliable indicator of pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and the client's self-report provides direct insight into their perception of pain intensity, quality, and impact on daily life. Vital signs, body language, and medical history can offer additional information but may not accurately reflect the client's actual pain experience. Therefore, relying on the client's self-report ensures a more accurate assessment of their pain and helps in tailoring appropriate interventions and treatment plans.

3. In an emergency department, a provider is assessing a client with an acute head injury following a motor-vehicle crash. Which of the following findings should be prioritized?

• A. A Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13
• B. Clear fluid leaking from the nose
• C. Nausea and vomiting
• D. Anisocoria

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority finding is the clear fluid leaking from the nose, which could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid leak and potential brain injury. This requires immediate attention to assess for possible cerebrospinal fluid leak, which is a serious complication of head trauma and needs prompt intervention to prevent further complications. While a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13 may indicate a mild alteration in consciousness, it is not as urgent as assessing for a cerebrospinal fluid leak. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms after head injuries but do not take precedence over assessing for a potential cerebrospinal fluid leak. Anisocoria (unequal pupils) is also important to note but is not as urgent as identifying a possible cerebrospinal fluid leak in this scenario.

4. A client has major fecal incontinence and reports irritation in the perianal area. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Apply a fecal collection system
• B. Apply a barrier cream
• C. Cleanse and dry the area
• D. Check the client's perineum

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client with major fecal incontinence reports irritation in the perianal area, the nurse's initial action should be to assess the client's perineum to gather more information. By checking the perineum, the nurse can identify the extent and nature of the irritation, allowing for appropriate interventions to be initiated. This assessment is crucial in developing a comprehensive care plan and addressing the client's immediate needs effectively. Applying the nursing process priority-setting framework helps in planning care and prioritizing nursing actions, making assessment the initial step in this scenario. Applying a fecal collection system (choice A) would be premature without assessing the perineal area first. Similarly, applying a barrier cream (choice B) or cleansing and drying the area (choice C) should follow the assessment to ensure appropriate interventions are chosen based on the assessment findings.

5. When teaching a client with a new diagnosis of hypertension about medication adherence, which statement should the nurse include?

• A. You can stop taking your medication once your blood pressure is normal.
• B. You should take your medication at the same time every day.
• C. You can double your dose if you miss a dose.
• D. You should take your medication with a high-fat meal.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'You should take your medication at the same time every day.' Taking medication consistently at the same time daily is crucial for maintaining steady blood levels and effectively managing hypertension. It helps ensure that the medication works optimally and provides the best control of blood pressure throughout the day. Choice A is incorrect because stopping medication once blood pressure is normal can lead to a relapse or worsening of hypertension. Choice C is incorrect as doubling the dose without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous. Choice D is incorrect as taking medication with a high-fat meal can affect its absorption and efficacy.

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