Nursing Elites

1. An older female client living in a low-income apartment complex tells the home health nurse that she is concerned about her 81-year-old neighbor, a widow whose son recently assumed her financial affairs. Lately, her neighbor has become reclusive but is occasionally seen walking outside wearing only a robe and slippers. What response should the nurse offer?

• A. Explain that it is not unusual for older adults to suffer from dementia, which often causes such behaviors.
• B. Tell the client to talk to a healthcare provider before reporting suspicion of neglect to the authorities.
• C. Provide the number for Adult Protective Services so the client can report any suspicion of elder abuse.
• D. Encourage the client to avoid becoming involved in the neighbor’s problems for one’s protection.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct response is to provide the number for Adult Protective Services so the client can report any suspicion of elder abuse. This action allows for an official investigation into possible elder abuse or neglect, ensuring the neighbor’s safety and well-being. Choice A is incorrect because assuming dementia without evidence is premature and could lead to overlooking potential abuse. Choice B is incorrect as the situation raises concerns about possible neglect or abuse, which should be reported promptly to the appropriate authorities. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of the neighbor in need.

2. A client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left leg is on a heparin protocol. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in this client's plan of care?

• A. Observe for bleeding side effects related to heparin therapy.
• B. Assess blood pressure and heart rate at least every 4 hours.
• C. Measure calf girth to evaluate edema in the affected leg.
• D. Encourage mobilization to prevent pulmonary embolism.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Observe for bleeding side effects related to heparin therapy.' This is the most crucial intervention for a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on a heparin protocol. Heparin, being an anticoagulant, increases the risk of bleeding as a side effect. Therefore, close monitoring for signs of bleeding, such as bruising, petechiae, or blood in stool or urine, is essential to prevent severe complications. While assessing blood pressure and heart rate (Choice B) is important, it is not as critical as monitoring for bleeding. Measuring calf girth (Choice C) may help evaluate edema but is not as vital as observing for bleeding complications. Encouraging mobilization (Choice D) is beneficial for preventing complications like pulmonary embolism, but in this scenario, monitoring for bleeding takes precedence due to the immediate risk associated with anticoagulant therapy.

3. After removing an IV that became infiltrated in the client’s left forearm, which site should the nurse select as a possible site to insert another IV catheter?

• A. Right hand
• B. Right forearm
• C. Left hand
• D. Right subclavian

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Right hand. When an IV becomes infiltrated in the client's left forearm, it is essential to avoid the same side due to the risk of complications. Therefore, the right hand is a suitable alternative site for IV insertion. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choosing the right forearm (B) would still be on the same side, which increases the risk of complications. The left hand (C) is not a preferred option immediately after an infiltration in the left forearm. The right subclavian (D) is an invasive site typically reserved for central line placement and not a first-line choice for IV insertion.

4. A female client on the mental health unit frequently asks the nurse when she can be discharged. Then, becoming more anxious, she begins to pace the hallway. What intervention should the nurse implement first?

• A. Review the current treatment plan with the client
• B. Inform the healthcare provider about the client’s behaviors
• C. Determine if the client has PRN medication for anxiety
• D. Explore the client’s reasons for wanting to be discharged

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Exploring the client’s reasons for wanting to be discharged should be the first intervention as it helps to address underlying anxieties and concerns. By understanding the client's motivations, the nurse can provide appropriate support and interventions. It can also reduce distress and improve the therapeutic relationship. Reviewing the treatment plan (Choice A) may be important but addressing the immediate distress takes precedence. Informing the healthcare provider (Choice B) can be considered later if necessary. Determining if the client has PRN medication (Choice C) is relevant, but exploring the underlying reasons for the desire to be discharged is more beneficial in this situation.

5. A client has a history of vasovagal attacks resulting in brady-dysrhythmias. Which instruction is most important to include in the teaching plan?

• A. Use stool softeners regularly
• B. Avoid electromagnetic fields
• C. Maintain a low-fat diet
• D. Do not use aspirin products

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Use stool softeners regularly.' Vasovagal attacks can be triggered by straining, and using stool softeners can help prevent such attacks. Choices B, C, and D are not directly related to preventing vasovagal attacks in this context. Avoiding electromagnetic fields, maintaining a low-fat diet, or not using aspirin products are important for various health reasons but not specifically for preventing vasovagal attacks related to brady-dysrhythmias.

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