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. A client has a stage 1 pressure ulcer on the right heel. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Apply a heat lamp to the area for 20 minutes each day.
• B. Change the dressing on the heel every 12 hours.
• C. Apply a transparent dressing over the heel.
• D. Use a water pressure mattress.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Applying a transparent dressing over the heel is beneficial as it can protect the ulcer from friction and shear, and allow for continuous observation of the wound. This intervention promotes healing and prevents further damage to the skin. Choice A is incorrect because applying heat can increase the risk of tissue damage and should be avoided. Choice B is incorrect as changing the dressing every 12 hours may disrupt the wound healing process and is not necessary for a stage 1 pressure ulcer. Choice D is incorrect because using a water pressure mattress is not a specific intervention for a stage 1 pressure ulcer on the heel.

3. Following a total hip arthroplasty, what intervention should the healthcare provider implement for the client?

• A. Place a pillow between the client's legs.
• B. Elevate the head of the bed to 45 degrees.
• C. Position the client on the operative side.
• D. Keep the client’s legs adducted.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Placing a pillow between the client's legs is crucial post hip arthroplasty surgery to prevent hip dislocation. This intervention helps maintain proper alignment and prevents legs from crossing midline, reducing the risk of hip prosthesis dislocation. Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees, positioning the client on the operative side, or keeping the client's legs adducted are not recommended postoperative interventions for a total hip arthroplasty, as they can increase the risk of complications and compromise the surgical site.

4. A client with hypertension is being taught about the DASH diet. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should increase my intake of sodium-rich foods.
• B. I should decrease my intake of potassium-rich foods.
• C. I should increase my intake of fruits and vegetables.
• D. I should decrease my intake of whole grains.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is recommended for managing hypertension. Increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables is a key component of the DASH diet as these foods are rich in nutrients that can help lower blood pressure levels. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they go against the principles of the DASH diet, which focuses on reducing sodium intake, increasing potassium-rich foods, and consuming whole grains.

5. When administering an IM injection to a 5-month-old infant, which of the following injection sites should be used?

• A. Deltoid
• B. Ventrogluteal
• C. Vastus lateralis
• D. Dorsogluteal

Correct answer: C

Rationale: For infants and young children, the vastus lateralis muscle located over the anterior thigh is the preferred site for intramuscular injections. This site is chosen for its large muscle mass and reduced risk of injury to major nerves and blood vessels. Infants have less developed muscle structures, making the vastus lateralis a safer and more effective site for injections compared to other sites like the deltoid, ventrogluteal, or dorsogluteal. Using the correct injection site is essential to prevent complications and ensure the proper absorption of the medication.

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