Nursing Elites

1. After 1 week of hospitalization, Mr. Gray develops hypokalemia. Which of the following is the most significant symptom of his disorder?

• A. Lethargy
• B. Increased pulse rate and blood pressure
• C. Muscle weakness
• D. Muscle irritability

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Muscle weakness is a hallmark symptom of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia refers to low levels of potassium in the blood, which can affect muscle function. The decreased potassium levels can lead to muscle weakness, cramping, and even paralysis. These symptoms can impact various muscle groups in the body, making muscle weakness the most significant symptom to monitor and address in patients with hypokalemia.

2. A client is to receive a transfusion of packed RBCs. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Prime IV tubing with 0.9% sodium chloride
• B. Use a 24-gauge IV catheter
• C. Obtain filterless IV tubing
• D. Place blood in the warmer for 1 hr

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Prior to administering a blood transfusion, it is essential to prime the IV tubing with 0.9% sodium chloride to prevent hemolysis of the blood cells. Using a smaller gauge IV catheter (e.g., 20 or 22 gauge) is recommended for blood transfusions to prevent hemolysis. Filterless IV tubing is contraindicated for blood transfusions as it does not have a filter to trap potential blood clots or debris. Warming blood is unnecessary and could lead to the development of bacteria in the blood product. Therefore, the correct action for the nurse to take is to prime the IV tubing with 0.9% sodium chloride.

3. During physical therapy, a client with Parkinson's disease makes the following statements. Which statement indicates the need for a referral to physical therapy?

• A. ''I have been experiencing more tremors in my left arm than before''
• B. ''I noticed that I am having a harder time holding on to my toothbrush''
• C. ''Lately, I feel like my feet are freezing up, as they are stuck to the ground''
• D. ''Sometimes, I feel I am making a chewing motion when I'm not eating''

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Feeling like the feet are freezing up and sticking to the ground is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease known as 'freezing of gait.' This symptom significantly impacts mobility and can be dangerous, indicating the need for specialized physical therapy interventions to address gait disturbances and improve mobility.

4. What is the best description of resonance?

• A. Sounds created by air-filled structures
• B. Short, high-pitched, and thudding
• C. Moderately loud with a musical quality
• D. Drum-like

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Resonance refers to the quality of sound produced by vibrations that are reinforced by other vibrations of the same frequency. In the context of the human body, resonance is often associated with sounds produced by air-filled structures like the lungs, vocal cords, and resonating cavities. Therefore, the best description of resonance from the given options is 'Sounds created by air-filled structures.' This choice aligns with the concept of resonance as it relates to sound production in the human body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically relate to the concept of resonance or its association with air-filled structures.

5. When reviewing the prescriptions for a client with a pneumothorax, which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?

• A. Assess the client's pain.
• B. Obtain a large-bore IV needle for decompression.
• C. Administer lorazepam.
• D. Prepare for chest tube insertion.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a client with a pneumothorax, the priority action for the nurse is to obtain a large-bore IV needle for decompression. This intervention helps to relieve the pressure in the pleural space, allowing the lung to re-expand. Prompt decompression is crucial in managing a tension pneumothorax, which can be life-threatening. Assessing pain, administering medication, and preparing for chest tube insertion are important, but they should follow the immediate intervention of decompression in a critical situation like a tension pneumothorax.

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