Nursing Elites

1. A nurse manager is preparing to complete staff performance appraisals. Which of the following principles should the nurse manager consider when completing the appraisals?

• A. Performance appraisals should be written in measurable terms
• B. Appraisal objectives should be applicable to staff at every level
• C. Performance appraisals should be based on the nurse manager's preferences
• D. Completed appraisals should be approved by a provider

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Performance appraisals should indeed be written in measurable terms to ensure objective evaluations based on specific outcomes achieved. This allows for a clear assessment of staff performance. Choice B is incorrect because appraisal objectives should be tailored to each staff member's role and responsibilities, not necessarily applicable at every level. Choice C is incorrect as performance appraisals should be objective and based on predefined criteria, not solely on the nurse manager's preferences. Choice D is incorrect as completed appraisals usually require approval from higher-level management or HR, not necessarily a provider.

2. When caring for a client's tracheostomy at home, which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Clean with alcohol
• B. Cover the tracheostomy when outside
• C. Replace the tube weekly
• D. Use tap water to clean

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Covering the tracheostomy when outside is crucial as it helps prevent dust and other irritants from entering the airway, reducing the risk of complications. Cleaning with alcohol (choice A) can be too harsh for the skin around the tracheostomy site. While replacing the tube weekly (choice C) is important, it is typically done by healthcare providers. Using tap water to clean (choice D) is not recommended as it may introduce contaminants to the tracheostomy site.

3. A nurse is caring for a patient postoperatively after a thyroidectomy. Which of the following findings should be reported immediately?

• A. Hoarseness
• B. Difficulty swallowing
• C. Numbness in the fingers
• D. Tingling around the mouth

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Tingling around the mouth should be reported immediately as it may indicate hypocalcemia, a serious complication resulting from accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands during thyroidectomy. Hoarseness and difficulty swallowing are common post-thyroidectomy symptoms related to the surgery itself and the manipulation of the vocal cords and nearby structures. Numbness in the fingers is not typically associated with immediate serious complications of a thyroidectomy.

4. Which therapeutic technique is recommended for clients with somatic symptom disorder?

• A. Encourage complete bed rest
• B. Limit the amount of time the client spends discussing symptoms
• C. Monitor the client's food intake
• D. Educate the client on lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct therapeutic technique recommended for clients with somatic symptom disorder is to limit the amount of time the client spends discussing symptoms. By doing so, the focus can be shifted away from the illness, helping the client to manage their condition better. Encouraging complete bed rest (Choice A) is not typically recommended as it may reinforce illness behaviors. Monitoring the client's food intake (Choice C) may not directly address the psychological aspects of somatic symptom disorder. Educating the client on lifestyle changes (Choice D) is important but may not be as effective initially as limiting symptom-focused discussions.

5. A patient with diabetes is admitted with high blood sugar levels. What is the nurse's priority intervention?

• A. Administer insulin as prescribed.
• B. Encourage the patient to exercise regularly.
• C. Encourage the patient to drink water.
• D. Provide the patient with a low-sugar diet.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering insulin is the priority intervention for a patient admitted with high blood sugar levels because it helps lower the blood sugar levels effectively and rapidly. Insulin is a crucial medication for managing hyperglycemia in diabetes. Encouraging exercise (choice B) can be beneficial in the long term for managing blood sugar levels but is not the most immediate priority. While staying hydrated (choice C) is important, it is not the priority intervention when dealing with high blood sugar levels. Providing a low-sugar diet (choice D) is essential for long-term diabetes management but is not the immediate action needed to address high blood sugar levels in an admitted patient.

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