Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional uses a head-to-toe approach to conduct a physical assessment of a client who will undergo surgery the following week. Which of the following critical thinking did the healthcare professional demonstrate?

• A. Confidence
• B. Perseverance
• C. Integrity
• D. Discipline

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Discipline.' In this scenario, discipline is exemplified by following a structured and comprehensive assessment process, as seen in the head-to-toe approach. Confidence (choice A) relates to self-assurance and belief in one's abilities, which is not the primary critical thinking demonstrated in this situation. Perseverance (choice B) is the persistence in achieving goals despite challenges, not directly related to the systematic assessment process. Integrity (choice C) pertains to honesty and ethical behavior, which are important traits but not the critical thinking skill exemplified by the structured assessment process shown in the head-to-toe approach.

2. A nurse receives a report about a client receiving IV fluids infusing at 125 mL/hr but notes they have only received 80 mL over the last 2 hours. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Check IV tubing for obstruction
• B. Increase the flow rate
• C. Change the IV site
• D. Notify the physician

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse to take is to check the IV tubing for obstruction. This step is crucial in ensuring that the IV fluids are flowing properly and that there are no blockages preventing the correct infusion rate. Increasing the flow rate (Choice B) without confirming the tubing's status could lead to potential complications if there is indeed an obstruction. Changing the IV site (Choice C) is not the priority in this situation unless there are specific clinical indications. Notifying the physician (Choice D) can be done after checking the tubing for obstruction, as the physician may need to be informed depending on the findings.

3. A charge nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse perform tracheostomy care for a client. Which of the following actions by the newly licensed nurse requires intervention?

• A. Obtaining cotton balls for the tracheostomy care
• B. Using a sterile water bottle
• C. Checking the suction equipment
• D. Wearing a sterile gown

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Obtaining cotton balls for tracheostomy care is not recommended due to the risk of fiber contamination. Sterile gauze should be used instead. Choice B, using a sterile water bottle, is a correct and appropriate action for tracheostomy care to maintain cleanliness. Choice C, checking the suction equipment, is also a necessary step to ensure it is functioning properly for the procedure. Choice D, wearing a sterile gown, is a standard precaution to maintain a sterile environment during tracheostomy care.

4. When assessing a client's neurologic system, what should the nurse ask the client to close their eyes and identify?

• A. A word whispered by the nurse 30cm from the ear
• B. A number traced on the palm of the hand
• C. The vibration of a tuning fork placed on the foot
• D. A familiar object placed in the hand

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a nurse asks a client to identify a number traced on the palm of the hand with their eyes closed, it assesses the client's ability to perceive touch sensations. This test specifically evaluates the tactile discrimination of the client. The other options do not test the client's ability to identify sensations accurately with eyes closed. Option A tests auditory perception, option C tests vibratory sense, and option D tests object recognition but not tactile discrimination, making them incorrect choices.

5. A nurse is planning care for a client who reports abdominal pain. An assessment by the nurse reveals the client has a temperature of 39.2°C (102°F), heart rate of 105/min, a soft tender abdomen, and menses overdue by 2 days. Which of the following findings should be the nurse’s priority?

• A. Temperature
• B. Menses overdue
• C. Soft tender abdomen
• D. Heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Temperature. A high temperature of 39.2°C (102°F) indicates a fever, which can be a sign of infection or another serious condition. Investigating the cause of the fever is a priority to address any underlying health issue promptly. Menses overdue (choice B) could be relevant but is not as urgent as addressing a fever. A soft tender abdomen (choice C) is important but may be a consequence of the underlying condition causing the fever. Heart rate (choice D) is also significant, but the priority here is to identify the cause of the fever.

Similar Questions