Nursing Elites

1. A patient is diagnosed with essential hypertension. Which of the following blood pressures would you expect to see in this patient prior to taking medications for the condition?

• A. 142/92
• B. 118/72
• C. 120/80
• D. 138/88

Correct answer: A: 142/92

Rationale: Before starting medications for essential hypertension, a patient would typically present with a blood pressure reading equal to or greater than 140/90. This indicates high blood pressure and is characteristic of essential hypertension. Choice A, 142/92, falls within this range, making it the correct answer. Choices B (118/72), C (120/80), and D (138/88) all have blood pressure readings that are within the normal range and would not typically be expected in a patient diagnosed with essential hypertension. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the elevated blood pressure levels seen in essential hypertension.

2. In the term 'Hemoglobin,' the suffix '-globin' means:

• A. Protein
• B. Iron
• C. Metal
• D. Blood

Correct answer: Protein

Rationale: The suffix '-globin' in the term 'Hemoglobin' specifically refers to a protein. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Choice B, 'Iron,' is incorrect as iron is a mineral component of hemoglobin but not the meaning of the suffix. Choice C, 'Metal,' is too broad and not specific to the meaning of the suffix in this context. Choice D, 'Blood,' is incorrect as it refers to the overall term 'Hemoglobin' rather than the specific meaning of the suffix '-globin.' Therefore, the correct answer is A: 'Protein.'

3. During a general survey of a patient, which finding is considered normal?

• A. Body mass index (BMI) of 20.
• B. When standing, the patient’s base is narrow.
• C. The patient appears older than their stated age.
• D. Arm span (fingertip to fingertip) is greater than the height.

Correct answer: Body mass index (BMI) of 20.

Rationale: A body mass index (BMI) of 20 is considered normal as the range for a normal BMI is between 19-24. When standing, a patient's base should be wide for stability and proper weight distribution. An older appearance than the stated age may indicate a history of chronic illness or chronic alcoholism. In a general survey, the patient's arm span (fingertip to fingertip) should approximately equal the patient's height. An arm span greater than the height may suggest Marfan syndrome. Therefore, the correct choice is a normal BMI of 20, which falls within the healthy range. Choices B, C, and D all describe abnormal findings that may indicate underlying health conditions or syndromes.

4. Which of these statements is true regarding the use of Standard Precautions in the healthcare setting?

• A. Standard Precautions apply to all body fluids, except sweat.
• B. Alcohol-based hand rub should be used if hands are not visibly dirty.
• C. Standard Precautions are intended for use with all patients, regardless of their risk or presumed infection status.
• D. Standard Precautions are to be used only when non-intact skin, excretions containing visible blood, or expected contact with mucous membranes are present.

Correct answer: Standard Precautions are intended for use with all patients, regardless of their risk or presumed infection status.

Rationale: Standard Precautions are designed to reduce the risk for transmission of microorganisms from both recognized and unrecognized sources. They are intended for use with all patients, regardless of their risk or presumed infection status. Standard Precautions apply to all body fluids, secretions, and excretions except sweat – whether or not they contain visible blood, non-intact skin, or mucous membranes. Hands should be washed with soap and water if visibly soiled with blood or body fluids. Alcohol-based hand rubs can be used if hands are not visibly soiled. Choice A is incorrect because Standard Precautions apply to all body fluids, secretions, and excretions except sweat. Choice B is incorrect because alcohol-based hand rub should be used when hands are not visibly dirty. Choice D is incorrect because Standard Precautions are not limited to situations involving non-intact skin, excretions with visible blood, or expected mucous membrane contact.

5. The healthcare provider is preparing to perform a physical assessment. Which statement is true about the inspection phase of the physical assessment?

• A. Usually yields little information
• B. Takes time and reveals a surprising amount of information
• C. May be somewhat uncomfortable for the expert practitioner
• D. Requires a thorough examination of the patient's body before proceeding with palpation

Correct answer: Takes time and reveals a surprising amount of information

Rationale: During the inspection phase of a physical assessment, it is essential to take time as it can reveal a significant amount of information. Initially, it may feel uncomfortable for the examiner to focus solely on observing the patient without immediate action. Rushing through inspection is not recommended as it can lead to missing important cues. Train yourself to be thorough during inspection by observing carefully and taking the time needed to gather essential data. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because inspection typically provides valuable information, may feel uncomfortable at first but is necessary for a comprehensive assessment, and does not involve a quick glance but requires a focused and detailed observation.

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