Nursing Elites

1. A client is receiving warfarin for atrial fibrillation. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse expect to be ordered to monitor the effect of warfarin?

• A. Platelet count
• B. International normalized ratio (INR)
• C. Prothrombin time (PT)
• D. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: International normalized ratio (INR). When a client is on warfarin therapy, the INR is monitored regularly to assess the anticoagulant effects of the medication. A therapeutic INR range for most indications is between 2.0 to 3.0. Choices A, C, and D are not typically used to monitor the effect of warfarin. Platelet count assesses the number of platelets in the blood, PT measures the clotting time of plasma, and PTT evaluates the intrinsic pathway of coagulation.

2. What is the most appropriate action when a patient is experiencing severe dehydration?

• A. Administer IV fluids
• B. Encourage oral fluids
• C. Monitor electrolytes
• D. Perform a neurological exam

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate action when a patient is experiencing severe dehydration is to administer IV fluids. This intervention is crucial in rapidly correcting dehydration and restoring fluid balance. Encouraging oral fluids may not be sufficient in cases of severe dehydration where intravenous rehydration is needed. Monitoring electrolytes is important but administering fluids takes precedence in severe dehydration. Performing a neurological exam is not the primary intervention for severe dehydration.

3. A client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Soak your feet in warm water every day to prevent dryness.
• B. Trim your toenails straight across to prevent injury.
• C. Apply lotion between your toes after bathing.
• D. Wear cotton socks to keep your feet dry.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Trim your toenails straight across to prevent injury.' In clients with diabetes, trimming toenails straight across is essential to prevent ingrown toenails and injury. Choice A is incorrect because soaking feet in warm water can lead to dryness, which is not recommended for diabetic foot care. Choice C is incorrect as applying lotion between the toes can create excess moisture, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Choice D is incorrect because although cotton socks are recommended, the primary purpose is to prevent moisture buildup, not specifically to keep the feet dry.

4. A charge nurse is educating a group of unit nurses about delegating client tasks to assistive personnel. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

• A. The nurse is legally responsible for the actions of the AP.
• B. An AP can perform tasks outside of their scope if they have been trained.
• C. An experienced AP can delegate tasks to another AP.
• D. An RN evaluates the client's needs to determine tasks to delegate.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement is D: 'An RN evaluates the client's needs to determine which tasks are appropriate to delegate to assistive personnel.' This is an essential step in the delegation process to ensure that tasks are assigned appropriately based on the client's condition and the competencies of the assistive personnel. Option A is incorrect because while the nurse retains accountability for delegation decisions, the AP is responsible for their actions. Option B is incorrect as tasks should be within the AP's scope of practice regardless of training. Option C is incorrect as delegation typically involves assigning tasks from the RN to the AP, not between APs.

5. A client with Parkinson's disease is receiving physical therapy. Which statement by the client indicates the need for a referral to physical therapy?

• A. I have been experiencing more tremors in my left arm than before
• B. I noticed that I am having a harder time holding onto my toothbrush
• C. Lately, I feel like my feet are freezing up, as they are stuck to the ground
• D. Sometimes, I feel I am making a chewing motion when I'm not eating

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because freezing of feet while walking is a sign of impaired mobility, indicating the need for physical therapy in clients with Parkinson's disease. Choices A, B, and D are symptoms commonly associated with Parkinson's disease but do not specifically indicate the need for immediate referral to physical therapy.

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