Nursing Elites

1. When a patient is taking glucocorticoids and digoxin, which electrolyte should the nurse prioritize monitoring?

• A. Calcium
• B. Magnesium
• C. Sodium
• D. Potassium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should primarily monitor potassium levels in a patient taking glucocorticoids and digoxin. Glucocorticoids can lead to potassium loss, potentially increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity. Additionally, glucocorticoids may worsen hypokalemia induced by diuretics like thiazides and loops. While calcium, magnesium, and sodium are important electrolytes to monitor in various clinical situations, they are not the priority in this specific scenario of a patient on glucocorticoids and digoxin.

2. When planning care for a pediatric client diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, what is the priority nursing diagnosis?

• A. Impaired Gas Exchange
• B. Risk for Infection
• C. Anxiety (parental)
• D. Acute Pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis when caring for a pediatric client with bacterial meningitis is 'Impaired Gas Exchange.' This diagnosis takes precedence due to the potential for respiratory complications associated with the condition. Bacterial meningitis can lead to increased intracranial pressure, compromising the child's ability to ventilate adequately. Therefore, monitoring and addressing any signs of respiratory distress are crucial in the care of these patients.

3. A healthcare professional is preparing for the delivery of a newborn with a known diaphragmatic hernia defect. Which equipment should the professional have on hand for the delivery?

• A. Bag-valve-mask system
• B. Sterile gauze and saline
• C. Soft arm restraints
• D. Endotracheal tube

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An endotracheal tube is crucial for managing the airway of a newborn with a diaphragmatic hernia. In this condition, there may be respiratory distress due to incomplete development of the diaphragm, allowing abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity and compress the lungs. The endotracheal tube helps in securing the airway and providing respiratory support if needed until definitive treatment can be initiated.

4. A parent of a school-age child is receiving discharge teaching following a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following instructions should be included by the nurse?

• A. Allow the child to bathe 6 hours after the procedure.
• B. Keep the child on bed rest for 12 hours.
• C. Maintain a pressure dressing on the site for 8 hours.
• D. Resume regular activities the day after the procedure.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction that the nurse should include is to keep the child on bed rest for 12 hours following a cardiac catheterization. This is important to prevent bleeding at the insertion site and ensure proper healing. Allowing the child to bathe soon after the procedure, maintaining a pressure dressing for only 8 hours, or resuming regular activities the day after the procedure can increase the risk of complications such as bleeding or infection.

5. Which statement by an 18-year-old woman vaccinated with Gardasil indicates that more teaching is necessary?

• A. This vaccination will cure the HPV infection I got when I was 16.
• B. I will still need to have a routine Pap screen performed.
• C. Gardasil can prevent genital warts in males and females.
• D. This drug does not protect against all types of HPV.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because Gardasil does not cure existing HPV infections. Gardasil is a preventive vaccine and does not treat existing infections. Choice B is correct as regular Pap screenings are still necessary even after vaccination. Choice C is also correct as Gardasil can prevent genital warts. Choice D is correct as Gardasil does not protect against all types of HPV. Therefore, option A is the statement that indicates the need for more teaching.

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