Nursing Elites

1. During an admission assessment of a client with COPD and emphysema complaining of a frequent productive cough and shortness of breath, what assessment finding should the nurse anticipate?

• A. Respiratory alkalosis
• B. Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest
• C. Oxygen saturation level 96%
• D. Petechiae on chest

Correct answer: B

Rationale: COPD and emphysema are chronic respiratory conditions that can lead to changes in the shape of the chest. In clients with COPD, the anteroposterior diameter of the chest often increases, giving a barrel chest appearance. This change in chest shape is due to hyperinflation of the lungs and is a common physical finding in clients with COPD and emphysema. The other options are not typically associated with COPD and emphysema. Respiratory alkalosis is not a common finding in these clients. An oxygen saturation level of 96% is within the normal range and does not specifically relate to COPD. Petechiae on the chest are not typically associated with COPD or emphysema.

2. A client with Parkinson's disease is prescribed carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet). What should the nurse include in the teaching about this medication?

• A. Take the medication without a high-protein meal.
• B. Expect the medication to take several weeks to reach full effectiveness.
• C. The medication may cause urine to turn light.
• D. You may experience a rapid heartbeat as a common side effect.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Patients prescribed carbidopa-levodopa should be informed that it may take several weeks for the medication to reach its full therapeutic effectiveness in managing Parkinson's disease symptoms. This delayed onset of action is important for patients to be aware of to prevent premature discontinuation of the medication due to perceived lack of efficacy.

3. Which action should the nurse take to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia in a client with an endotracheal tube receiving mechanical ventilation?

• A. Position the head of the client's bed flat
• B. Turn the client every 4 hours
• C. Brush the client's teeth with a suction toothbrush every 12 hours
• D. Provide humidity by maintaining moisture within the ventilator tubing

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common complication in clients receiving mechanical ventilation. Oral hygiene is crucial in reducing the risk of VAP. Brushing the client's teeth with a suction toothbrush every 12 hours helps prevent bacterial colonization in the oral cavity, which can be aspirated into the lungs. Positioning the head of the bed flat can increase the risk of aspiration. Turning the client every 4 hours is important for preventing pressure ulcers but not directly related to reducing VAP. Providing humidity in the ventilator tubing helps maintain airway moisture but does not directly address the risk of VAP.

4. When caring for an older adult client with a pulmonary infection, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake.
• B. Assess the client's level of consciousness.
• C. Raise the head of the bed to at least 45 degrees.
• D. Provide the client with humidified oxygen.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the client's level of consciousness is the priority because it provides crucial information on the client's neurological status and response to the infection. Changes in consciousness can indicate deterioration or improvement in the client's condition, guiding further interventions and treatment.

5. A nurse is caring for a client with a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. What is the most important aspect of teaching the nurse should focus on?

• A. The importance of regular exercise
• B. Proper administration of insulin
• C. Maintaining a low-carbohydrate diet
• D. Recognizing signs of hyperglycemia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Proper administration of insulin is crucial for clients with type 1 diabetes as they are dependent on insulin for blood glucose control.

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