Nursing Elites

1. A patient with chronic pain is prescribed a fentanyl patch. What is the most important instruction for the nurse to provide?

• A. Apply the patch to a different site each time.
• B. Change the patch every 72 hours.
• C. Avoid using additional heating pads over the patch.
• D. Remove the patch before showering.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most important instruction for the nurse to provide to a patient prescribed a fentanyl patch is to change the patch every 72 hours. This ensures consistent pain control and prevents complications. It is crucial to rotate the application sites to prevent skin irritation or reactions. Using additional heating pads over the patch should be avoided as it can increase the absorption of the medication, leading to overdose or adverse effects. Removing the patch before showering is not necessary as long as the patch is securely in place.

2. A patient who is receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer develops thrombocytopenia. What should the nurse include in the care plan?

• A. Encourage light exercise.
• B. Avoid intramuscular injections.
• C. Do not administer aspirin.
• D. Use a soft toothbrush for oral care.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding. To minimize this risk, patients with thrombocytopenia should avoid activities that can cause injury or bleeding, such as intramuscular injections. Encouraging light exercise can be beneficial, as it promotes circulation without increasing the risk of trauma. However, avoiding intramuscular injections is crucial to prevent bleeding episodes. Aspirin should be avoided as it can further impair platelet function, exacerbating the condition. Using a soft toothbrush for oral care is recommended to prevent gum bleeding in patients with thrombocytopenia.

3. The nurse is caring for a client with a spinal cord injury. Which intervention should the nurse implement to prevent autonomic dysreflexia?

• A. Restrict the client's fluid intake.
• B. Keep the client's room warm.
• C. Ensure the client's bladder is emptied regularly.
• D. Limit the client's intake of high-fiber foods.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To prevent autonomic dysreflexia in clients with spinal cord injuries, it is crucial to ensure the client's bladder is emptied regularly. Bladder distention is a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia in these clients. Keeping the bladder empty helps prevent the complications associated with autonomic dysreflexia, such as dangerously high blood pressure. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Restricting fluid intake can lead to dehydration, keeping the room warm is not directly related to preventing autonomic dysreflexia, and limiting high-fiber foods is not a primary intervention for this condition.

4. A client with portal hypertension who has developed ascites is scheduled for a paracentesis. What pre-procedure nursing intervention is essential?

• A. Encourage the client to empty the bladder
• B. Administer a laxative to clear the bowels
• C. Restrict the client's fluid intake
• D. Place the client in a supine position

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Emptying the bladder before a paracentesis is essential to prevent bladder injury during the procedure. A full bladder may be in the path of the needle insertion, increasing the risk of bladder puncture. Encouraging the client to empty the bladder ensures their safety and reduces the likelihood of complications.

5. A client with a history of gout is experiencing an acute attack. Which medication should the nurse expect the healthcare provider to prescribe?

• A. Aspirin.
• B. Allopurinol (Zyloprim).
• C. Colchicine.
• D. Probenecid (Benemid).

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During an acute gout attack, the healthcare provider is likely to prescribe colchicine. Colchicine is commonly used to treat acute gout attacks because it works by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain associated with the condition. It is important to note that aspirin is not recommended for gout treatment and may even exacerbate the symptoms. Allopurinol and probenecid are medications used for long-term management of gout by reducing uric acid levels in the blood, but they are not typically prescribed during an acute attack. Therefore, colchicine is the most appropriate medication for managing an acute gout attack.

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