Nursing Elites

1. Why is a precise amount of oxygen necessary for a patient with COPD to prevent which complication?

• A. Cardiac arrest related to increased partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (PaCO2)
• B. Circulatory overload due to hypervolemia
• C. Respiratory excitement
• D. Inhibition of the respiratory hypoxic stimulus

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In patients with COPD, the respiratory drive is often stimulated by low oxygen levels. Administering too much oxygen can inhibit this hypoxic drive, leading to respiratory depression and potential respiratory failure. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully regulate the oxygen therapy to prevent the inhibition of the respiratory hypoxic stimulus in COPD patients.

2. A healthcare professional is assessing a client following a gunshot wound to the chest. For which of the following findings should the healthcare professional not monitor to detect a pneumothorax?

• A. Tachypnea
• B. Deviation of the trachea
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Pleuritic pain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with a pneumothorax. In a pneumothorax, the presence of air in the pleural space can lead to lung collapse, causing symptoms such as tachypnea (rapid breathing), deviation of the trachea, and pleuritic pain. Monitoring for bradycardia may not be as relevant in this context as it is not a typical indicator of a pneumothorax.

3. A client reports that the medication the nurse is administering appears different than what they take at home. Which of the following responses should the nurse take?

• A. Did the doctor discuss with you that there was a change in this medication?
• B. I recommend that you take this medication as prescribed
• C. Do you know why this medication is being prescribed to you?
• D. I will call the pharmacist now to check on this medication

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client reports that the medication appears different than what they take at home, it is crucial for the nurse to ensure the safety and accuracy of the medication being administered. The most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is to call the pharmacist to verify the medication, dosage, and any potential changes. This proactive step helps prevent medication errors and ensures the client's safety and well-being.

4. Which of the following patients is at greatest risk for developing pressure ulcers?

• A. An alert chronic arthritic patient treated with steroids and aspirin
• B. An 88-year-old incontinent patient with gastric cancer who is confined to bed at home
• C. An apathetic 63-year-old COPD patient receiving nasal oxygen via cannula
• D. A confused 78-year-old patient with congestive heart failure (CHF) who requires assistance to get out of bed

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. An elderly patient who is incontinent, bedridden, and suffering from a serious illness like gastric cancer is at the highest risk for developing pressure ulcers. Being bedridden and incontinent increases the pressure on certain areas of the body, leading to tissue damage and the development of pressure ulcers. Additionally, the patient's age and underlying health condition further contribute to their risk. It is crucial to identify and address such risk factors promptly to prevent the occurrence of pressure ulcers in vulnerable patients.

5. A nurse is talking with another nurse on the unit and smells alcohol on her breath. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Confront the nurse about the suspected alcohol use.
• B. Inform another nurse on the unit about the suspected alcohol use.
• C. Ask the nurse to finish administering medications and then go home.
• D. Notify the nursing manager about the suspected alcohol use.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Confronting the nurse about the suspected alcohol use is the most appropriate action in this situation. It is essential to address the issue directly and express concerns about patient safety and potential impairment. By addressing the situation promptly, the nurse can potentially prevent harm and provide support to the colleague in need.

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