Nursing Elites

1. A patient's serum potassium level is 2.2 mEq/L. Which nursing action is the highest priority for this patient?

• A. Start oxygen at 2 L/min
• B. Initiate cardiac monitoring
• C. Initiate seizure precautions
• D. Keep the patient on bed rest

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to initiate cardiac monitoring. Severe hypokalemia can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, making cardiac monitoring the priority to detect and manage any cardiac complications. Starting oxygen, seizure precautions, or bed rest are not the immediate priority actions for severe hypokalemia.

2. Which of the following is considered normal for the neonate?

• A. Chest Circumference: 10 to 13 inches
• B. Length: 16 to 22 inches
• C. Weight: 1,500 to 4,000 g
• D. Head Circumference: 12.6 to 14.5 inches

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A normal head circumference for a neonate typically falls within the range of 12.6 to 14.5 inches. Choice A is incorrect because the chest circumference for a neonate is usually smaller. Choice B is incorrect as the length of a neonate is typically shorter. Choice C is incorrect as the weight of a neonate is usually measured in grams and falls within a different range.

3. What does the mnemonic PERLA stand for in the assessment of the eyes?

• A. Pupils equally reactive to light and accommodation
• B. Patient eyes are equally recessed and responsive to light and acuity
• C. Patient eyes are equally responsive to light and acuity
• D. Pupils equally reactive to light and acuity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Pupils equally reactive to light and accommodation.' PERLA is a mnemonic used in eye assessments to check for Pupils being equally reactive to Light and Accommodation. Choice B is incorrect as it includes irrelevant information about the eyes being recessed. Choice C is incorrect as it is missing the mention of pupils and accommodation. Choice D is incorrect as it misses the mention of accommodation.

4. Your client has a doctor's order that reads 'advance diet as tolerated'. This client has returned from the recovery room after an appendectomy and he states, 'I am hungry'. What would you offer this client to consume?

• A. Cheese and crackers
• B. Apple sauce
• C. Chicken broth
• D. A peanut butter sandwich

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chicken broth is a suitable option for a post-appendectomy patient beginning to tolerate oral intake. It is clear liquid and easily digestible, making it a gentle choice for someone who has just returned from surgery. Cheese and crackers, apple sauce, and a peanut butter sandwich are not ideal options for an individual who needs to start with a light and easily digestible diet.

5. Which of the following actions can an individual nurse take to exert leadership in supporting the profession of nursing?

• A. Join a local professional organization.
• B. Talk about healthcare issues to everyone who will listen, including legislators.
• C. Register to vote.
• D. Learn about the healthcare system.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Engaging in conversations about healthcare issues with a wide audience, including legislators, is a powerful way for a nurse to exert leadership and support the nursing profession. This action helps raise awareness, advocate for nursing-related matters, and contribute to positive changes in healthcare policies. Choice A, joining a local professional organization, is beneficial but may not have the same broad impact as engaging in public discourse. Choice C, registering to vote, is important for civic engagement but does not directly relate to exerting leadership in supporting the nursing profession. Choice D, learning about the healthcare system, is valuable for personal development but does not directly address exerting leadership in supporting the nursing profession.

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