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 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.

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following findings should the professional expect?

• A. Swelling of the affected limb.
• B. Diminished peripheral pulses.
• C. Coolness of the affected limb.
• D. Redness and warmth of the affected limb.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Redness and warmth of the affected limb are classic signs of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) due to inflammation and increased blood flow. These symptoms occur as a result of the blood clot obstructing normal blood flow and causing localized inflammation in the affected limb. Swelling of the affected limb, diminished peripheral pulses, and coolness are not typically associated with DVT. Swelling can be present but is often accompanied by the characteristic redness and warmth. Diminished pulses and coolness are more indicative of arterial insufficiency rather than venous thrombosis.

4. When teaching a client how to perform self-catheterization, which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Use sterile gloves during the procedure.
• B. Clean the catheter with alcohol after each use.
• C. Insert the catheter 2-4 inches into the urethra.
• D. Perform the procedure every 8 hours.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To ensure effective drainage, the catheter should be inserted 2-4 inches into the urethra. This length allows the catheter to reach the bladder, bypass the urethral sphincters, and ensure proper drainage without causing discomfort or injury. Using sterile gloves, cleaning the catheter with alcohol, and performing the procedure every 8 hours are not accurate instructions for self-catheterization.

5. Prior to administering a blood transfusion, what should the healthcare professional do first?

• A. Prime the IV tubing with normal saline.
• B. Verify the client's identity.
• C. Obtain the blood product from the blood bank.
• D. Check the client's vital signs.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Verifying the client's identity is the essential initial step before administering a blood transfusion. This action is crucial to confirm that the correct blood product is being administered to the right client, thereby preventing any potential errors or adverse reactions. Ensuring patient safety is paramount in healthcare, and verifying the client's identity is a fundamental safety measure that should always be prioritized.

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