how should a nurse assess a patient with sepsis

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020

1. How should a healthcare provider assess a patient with sepsis?

A. Monitor vital signs and administer fluids
B. Monitor for fever and administer antibiotics
C. Check for tachycardia and elevated white blood cell count
D. Administer fluids and provide nutritional support

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In sepsis, it is crucial to monitor vital signs to assess the patient's condition and administer fluids to maintain circulation. This approach helps in stabilizing blood pressure and perfusion. While monitoring for fever and administering antibiotics (choice B) is important in managing sepsis, the initial priority lies in assessing and stabilizing the patient's hemodynamic status. Checking for tachycardia and elevated white blood cell count (choice C) can be part of the assessment but does not encompass the immediate intervention needed in sepsis. Administering fluids and providing nutritional support (choice D) are essential in managing sepsis, but the primary step should be to assess the patient's condition through vital sign monitoring.

2. A client who is to undergo an exercise stress test is being taught by a nurse. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I should eat a large meal 2 hours before the test
B. I should avoid drinking water before the test
C. I should stop taking my blood pressure medication
D. I should report any chest pain during the test

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'I should report any chest pain during the test.' This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because reporting chest pain during an exercise stress test is crucial as it may signify cardiac distress. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Eating a large meal 2 hours before the test is not recommended as it may affect the results. Avoiding drinking water before the test is also not advisable as staying hydrated is important. Stopping blood pressure medication without medical advice can be dangerous, especially before a stress test.

3. What lifestyle change should be emphasized for a client with hypertension?

A. Increase intake of dairy products
B. Reduce caffeine and sodium intake
C. Eat carbohydrate-rich meals
D. Limit intake of leafy green vegetables

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct lifestyle change that should be emphasized for a client with hypertension is to reduce caffeine and sodium intake. Caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure, and high sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure levels. Therefore, reducing these two components can help manage blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because increasing intake of dairy products, consuming carbohydrate-rich meals, and limiting intake of leafy green vegetables do not specifically address the factors that contribute to high blood pressure in hypertension.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who has severe preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate intravenously. The nurse discontinues the magnesium sulfate after the client displays toxicity. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Position the client supine.
B. Prepare an IV bolus of dextrose 5% in water.
C. Administer methylergonovine IM.
D. Administer calcium gluconate IV.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In cases of magnesium sulfate toxicity, calcium gluconate is the antidote that should be administered promptly. Positioning the client supine (Choice A) is not the priority in this scenario. Administering dextrose 5% in water (Choice B) is not indicated for magnesium sulfate toxicity. Methylergonovine IM (Choice C) is used for postpartum hemorrhage, not for magnesium sulfate toxicity.

5. A client with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Apply lotion between the toes
B. Wear shoes that fit properly
C. Walk barefoot at home
D. Apply ice to the feet daily

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes that fit properly.' In peripheral arterial disease (PAD), it is crucial to wear shoes that fit well to prevent foot injuries. Choice A is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can increase the risk of infection. Choice C is incorrect since walking barefoot at home can lead to injuries, especially in individuals with PAD. Choice D is incorrect as applying ice to the feet daily can further reduce blood flow to the extremities, worsening the condition in PAD.