Nursing Elites

1. Digestion, elimination, and ___________ are the three functions of the digestive system.

• A. constriction
• B. relaxation
• C. absorption
• D. peristalsis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'absorption.' The three main functions of the digestive system are digestion, absorption, and elimination. Absorption refers to the process of absorbing nutrients and other substances from the digested food into the bloodstream. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: Constriction is not a primary function of the digestive system, relaxation is not a distinct function in this context, and peristalsis is a muscular movement that aids in digestion but is not one of the three main functions of the digestive system.

2. Improper placement of the hands under the rib cage when performing the Heimlich maneuver could result in:

• A. damage to the manubrium of the sternum.
• B. damage to the xiphoid process.
• C. damage to the coccyx.
• D. None of the above is possible, even with improper hand placement.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The xiphoid process is a small, cartilaginous extension at the inferior end of the sternum. Placing the hands improperly during the Heimlich maneuver too close to this process can result in it breaking off and potentially causing damage to internal organs. Choices A and C are incorrect because the manubrium of the sternum and the coccyx are not in the area where the hands would typically be placed during the Heimlich maneuver.

3. A physician's order instructs a nurse to take a temperature at the axilla. Where would the nurse place the thermometer?

• A. In the rectum
• B. In the mouth
• C. On the temples
• D. In the armpit

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a physician's order specifies taking a temperature at the axilla, the nurse should place the thermometer in the armpit. The axilla is the anatomical area of the armpit located under the arms, proximal to the trunk. Placing the thermometer in the rectum (Choice A) is used for rectal temperature measurements, in the mouth (Choice B) for oral temperature measurements, and on the temples (Choice C) is not a common site for temperature assessment. Therefore, the correct placement based on the given instruction is in the armpit.

4. A patient has come to the office for a blood draw. The patient starts to sweat and is very anxious. Which of the following would be the BEST way to proceed?

• A. Do not perform the procedure. Notify the physician of the reason why.
• B. Perform the procedure but pay close attention for signs of potential syncope.
• C. Allow the patient to reschedule for a time when he isn't as anxious.
• D. Have the physician draw the blood.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the scenario where a patient is sweating and anxious, it is important to assess for signs of potential syncope (fainting) while proceeding with the blood draw. If the patient does not exhibit signs of fainting, the phlebotomy procedure can be performed safely. Postponing the procedure may not address the patient's anxiety and inconvenience them. Having the physician draw the blood is not necessary if the phlebotomist can handle the situation effectively.

5. Patients exhibiting signs of cyanosis will:

• A. show signs of hyperoxia.
• B. have increased O2 saturation.
• C. have blood levels of CO2 higher than O2 levels.
• D. None of the above.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes resulting from low blood oxygen levels. When a patient exhibits cyanosis, it indicates that their blood is poorly oxygenated, leading to a higher concentration of CO2 compared to oxygen. Options A and B are incorrect as cyanosis is associated with low oxygen levels, not hyperoxia or increased O2 saturation. Therefore, the correct answer is that patients exhibiting cyanosis will have blood levels of CO2 higher than O2 levels.

Similar Questions