Nursing Elites

1. A patient with a history of asthma is admitted with shortness of breath. What is the nurse's priority intervention?

• A. Administer a bronchodilator as prescribed.
• B. Encourage the patient to use an incentive spirometer.
• C. Place the patient in a high Fowler's position.
• D. Monitor the patient's oxygen saturation closely.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to administer a bronchodilator as prescribed. This intervention is the priority for a patient with asthma experiencing shortness of breath as it helps relax the airways, making breathing easier. Encouraging the use of an incentive spirometer (Choice B) is beneficial for lung expansion but not the priority in this acute situation. Placing the patient in a high Fowler's position (Choice C) can also help with breathing but is not as immediate as administering a bronchodilator. While monitoring the patient's oxygen saturation closely (Choice D) is important, the immediate action to address the breathing difficulty is administering a bronchodilator.

2. When caring for a client's tracheostomy at home, which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Clean with alcohol
• B. Cover the tracheostomy when outside
• C. Replace the tube weekly
• D. Use tap water to clean

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Covering the tracheostomy when outside is crucial as it helps prevent dust and other irritants from entering the airway, reducing the risk of complications. Cleaning with alcohol (choice A) can be too harsh for the skin around the tracheostomy site. While replacing the tube weekly (choice C) is important, it is typically done by healthcare providers. Using tap water to clean (choice D) is not recommended as it may introduce contaminants to the tracheostomy site.

3. A staff nurse is challenging a shift assignment with the charge nurse. Which of the following statements made by the charge nurse is an example of smoothing as a strategy to resolve conflict?

• A. If you accept this assignment today, I will let you choose your assignment tomorrow
• B. If you don't agree with the assignment, I will have to report your decision to the nursing supervisor
• C. Let's just focus on giving our client medications on time
• D. You have a lot of experience, so I'm sure you're capable of these tasks

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it exemplifies smoothing as a conflict resolution strategy. Smoothing involves downplaying conflict and reassuring the individual to reduce tension. In this statement, the charge nurse acknowledges the staff nurse's experience and capability to perform the assigned tasks, which aims to reduce conflict and promote a positive outlook. Choices A, B, and C do not reflect smoothing. Choice A involves a conditional agreement, choice B introduces a threat of reporting, and choice C shifts the focus away from the conflict.

4. When working with a client who does not speak the same language, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Speak directly to the interpreter
• B. Use family members to translate
• C. Speak directly to the patient
• D. Use medical jargon

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When caring for a client who does not speak the same language, it is essential for the nurse to speak directly to the patient. This approach helps maintain rapport, establishes a trusting relationship, and ensures better communication. Speaking to the interpreter instead of the patient can lead to misunderstandings and hinder the therapeutic relationship. Using family members to translate is not recommended as they may not provide accurate or confidential information. Lastly, using medical jargon can further complicate communication and may not be understood by the patient.

5. When teaching a patient with a new prescription for brimonidine to treat open-angle glaucoma, what indicates an understanding of the instructions?

• A. I can expect my vision to improve quickly
• B. I should use it only when my eyes are irritated
• C. I can expect to feel some irritation when I put these drops in my eyes
• D. I will need regular eye exams

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. When using brimonidine to treat open-angle glaucoma, patients may experience temporary irritation in the eyes. Choice A is incorrect because vision improvement from brimonidine is not immediate. Choice B is incorrect as brimonidine should be used as prescribed, not just when eyes are irritated. Choice D is important but does not directly indicate an understanding of the medication's use.

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