Nursing Elites

1. When teaching a client about the proper use of a cane, which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Hold the cane on the weaker side.
• B. Move the cane forward first.
• C. Keep the cane 12 inches away from the body.
• D. Use the cane for support only when climbing stairs.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When using a cane, it is crucial to move the cane forward first to provide support and enhance balance. Advancing the cane before the weaker or stronger leg helps widen the base of support, thereby improving stability during ambulation. Keeping the cane too far or too close to the body can affect its supportive function. Moreover, utilizing the cane solely for stair climbing limits its overall utility in maintaining balance and stability during regular walking.

2. A client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is receiving teaching from a healthcare provider. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take my insulin only if my blood sugar is above 200 mg/dL.
• B. I will eat a snack before exercising.
• C. I will avoid all carbohydrates.
• D. I will check my blood sugar once a week.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Eating a snack before exercising is crucial for managing blood sugar levels and preventing hypoglycemia in individuals with diabetes. Exercising on an empty stomach can lead to low blood sugar levels, but consuming a snack before physical activity helps stabilize blood sugar and provides energy for the body. This proactive approach demonstrates the client's understanding of the importance of managing blood sugar levels during physical activity.

3. A client is experiencing dysphagia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Provide small food pieces.
• B. Offer thickened liquids.
• C. Encourage the client to sit upright after meals.
• D. Place food on the unaffected side of the mouth.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for a client with dysphagia, placing food on the unaffected side of the mouth can help them chew and swallow more effectively. This technique can assist in minimizing the risk of aspiration and improve the client's ability to manage food safely. Providing small food pieces, offering thickened liquids, and encouraging the client to sit upright after meals are also important interventions in managing dysphagia, but placing food on the unaffected side of the mouth is a specific technique that directly addresses the swallowing difficulty associated with dysphagia.

4. 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.

5. During postoperative teaching following a hip arthroplasty, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid lying on your operative side.
• B. Cross your legs at the ankles only.
• C. Place a pillow between your legs when turning.
• D. Avoid bending your hip more than 120 degrees.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include during postoperative teaching following a hip arthroplasty is to 'Place a pillow between your legs when turning.' Placing a pillow between the legs when turning is crucial as it helps prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis. This position aids in maintaining proper alignment and stability, thereby reducing the risk of complications after hip arthroplasty surgery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the specific action needed to protect the hip prosthesis and prevent complications.

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