Nursing Elites

1. A patient has just been admitted with probable bacterial pneumonia and sepsis. Which order should the nurse implement first?

• A. Performing a chest x-ray via stretcher
• B. Obtaining blood cultures from two sites
• C. Administering Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 400 mg IV
• D. Inserting an Acetaminophen (Tylenol) rectal suppository

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a patient with probable bacterial pneumonia and sepsis, the priority intervention is to obtain blood cultures from two sites before initiating antibiotic therapy. This is crucial to identify the causative organism and guide appropriate antibiotic treatment. Administering antibiotics without obtaining cultures first can interfere with accurate results. Performing a chest x-ray and administering acetaminophen can be done after obtaining blood cultures as they are important but not as urgent as identifying the causative organism in sepsis.

2. Which of the following types of dressing changes works as a form of wound debridement?

• A. Dry dressing
• B. Transparent dressing
• C. Composite dressing
• D. Wet to dry dressing

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Wet to dry dressing.' Wet to dry dressing is a method of wound debridement that involves applying sterile soaked gauze to the wound, allowing it to dry and stick to the wound. When the dressing is removed, it pulls away drainage and debris, aiding in wound debridement. Choice A, 'Dry dressing,' does not actively assist in debridement as it does not collect or remove debris from the wound. Choice B, 'Transparent dressing,' is primarily used for maintaining a moist environment and wound observation, not for debridement. Choice C, 'Composite dressing,' combines multiple layers for different wound care purposes but is not specifically designed for debridement like wet to dry dressing.

3. What is the cause of meningitis that is fatal in half of the infected patients?

• A. Virus
• B. Bacteria
• C. Fungus
• D. Noninfectious agent

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bacterial meningitis is caused by bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Listeria monocytogenes, and Neisseria meningitidis. These bacteria commonly lead to acute onset meningitis, presenting with symptoms like fever, stiff neck, and altered consciousness. The statement that bacterial meningitis is fatal in about 50% of cases is accurate, making it a serious and life-threatening condition. Viruses can also cause meningitis, but they are not typically associated with the high fatality rate seen in bacterial meningitis. Fungal meningitis is less common and usually affects individuals with weakened immune systems. Noninfectious agents do not cause meningitis.

4. In a pediatric clinic, a nurse is assessing a child recently diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Which of the following later findings of this disease would the nurse not expect to see at this time?

• A. Positive sweat test
• B. Bulky greasy stools
• C. Moist, productive cough
• D. Meconium ileus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a child newly diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF), noisy respirations and a dry, non-productive cough are typically the first respiratory signs to appear. The other options, including a positive sweat test, bulky greasy stools, and meconium ileus, are among the earliest findings of CF. CF is a genetic condition that affects the production of mucus, sweat, saliva, and digestive juices. Due to a defective gene, these secretions become thick and sticky instead of thin and slippery, leading to blockages in various passageways, especially in the pancreas and lungs. Respiratory failure is a severe consequence of CF, making it crucial to monitor respiratory symptoms closely in affected individuals. Therefore, a moist, productive cough would not be an expected finding in a newly diagnosed child with CF.

5. After surgery for an imperforate anus, an infant returns with a red and edematous colostomy stoma. What action should the nurse take based on this finding?

• A. Elevate the buttocks.
• B. Document the findings.
• C. Apply ice immediately.
• D. Call the primary health care provider.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A red and edematous colostomy stoma is a common finding immediately after surgery, and these changes are expected to decrease over time. As the stoma heals, it usually becomes pink without signs of abnormal drainage, swelling, or skin breakdown. Therefore, the appropriate action for the nurse is to document these normal findings. Elevating the buttocks, applying ice, or calling the primary health care provider are unnecessary interventions at this stage.

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