Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is reviewing the plan of care for a client who is receiving chemotherapy for cancer. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include to prevent infection?

• A. Encourage the client to eat high-protein foods
• B. Encourage the client to drink 2 liters of fluid daily
• C. Instruct the client to use a soft toothbrush
• D. Instruct the client to use a mouthwash containing alcohol

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to use a soft toothbrush. Using a soft toothbrush helps prevent bleeding in clients receiving chemotherapy, who are at risk for mucositis. Encouraging the client to eat high-protein foods (Choice A) is important for overall health but not directly related to preventing infection. Encouraging the client to drink 2 liters of fluid daily (Choice B) is essential for hydration but does not specifically prevent infection. Instructing the client to use a mouthwash containing alcohol (Choice D) is contraindicated as alcohol-containing mouthwashes can cause irritation and dryness in the oral mucosa, increasing the risk of infection.

2. What is the priority when managing a client with a chest tube postoperatively?

• A. Clamp the chest tube for 30 minutes every 4 hours
• B. Check for air leaks and proper functioning of the chest tube
• C. Encourage deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours
• D. Encourage frequent coughing to clear secretions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority when managing a client with a chest tube postoperatively is to check for air leaks and ensure the proper functioning of the chest tube. This is crucial to prevent complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax. Clamping the chest tube intermittently can lead to a buildup of pressure in the pleural space and should not be done without a specific medical indication. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing helps with lung expansion but is not the priority over ensuring the chest tube's proper function. Encouraging frequent coughing may increase the risk of dislodging the chest tube or causing complications.

3. A nurse has just received change-of-shift report for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?

• A. A client who was just given a glass of orange juice for a low blood glucose level.
• B. A client who is scheduled for a procedure in 1 hr.
• C. A client who has 100 mL fluid remaining in his IV bag.
• D. A client who received a pain medication 30 min ago for postoperative pain.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client with low blood glucose needs immediate assessment to ensure that the orange juice has corrected the hypoglycemia. Monitoring the effectiveness of the intervention for low blood glucose is the priority. The other options, such as a client scheduled for a procedure in 1 hour, a client with fluid remaining in the IV bag, and a client who received pain medication 30 minutes ago, do not require immediate assessment like the client with low blood glucose.

4. What is the priority for the nurse when caring for a patient with a chest tube?

• A. Ensure tube patency and observe for air leaks
• B. Maintain sterile technique during dressing changes
• C. Monitor drainage and record output
• D. Observe for signs of infection and monitor for subcutaneous emphysema

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority for the nurse when caring for a patient with a chest tube is to ensure tube patency and observe for air leaks. This is essential to prevent complications such as pneumothorax and ensure the patient's lung function. While maintaining sterile technique during dressing changes, monitoring drainage, recording output, and observing for signs of infection and subcutaneous emphysema are also important, ensuring tube patency takes precedence as it directly impacts the patient's respiratory status and overall safety.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness and is approaching death. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of impending death?

• A. Hypertension.
• B. Tachycardia.
• C. Cold extremities.
• D. Diaphoresis.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cold extremities are a critical sign of impending death as they indicate decreased circulation, leading to poor perfusion to the extremities. This phenomenon occurs as the body redirects blood flow to vital organs, preparing for the end of life. Hypertension and tachycardia are less likely to be seen in the terminal phase and are usually associated with other conditions like shock or sepsis. Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, may occur in various situations but is not a specific indicator of impending death in this context.

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