how should a nurse care for a patient with a colostomy

ATI LPN

ATI Comprehensive Predictor PN

1. How should a healthcare professional care for a patient with a colostomy?

A. Empty the colostomy bag regularly
B. Provide a high-fiber diet
C. Monitor for signs of infection
D. Change the colostomy bag every 3 days

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Emptying the colostomy bag regularly is essential to prevent leakage and infection. By regularly emptying the bag, the risk of irritation to the skin surrounding the stoma is reduced. Providing a high-fiber diet is important for overall bowel health but is not directly related to colostomy care. While monitoring for signs of infection is crucial, the primary focus should be on proper bag emptying. Changing the colostomy bag every 3 days may not be necessary for all patients and could vary based on individual needs and the type of colostomy.

2. What are the key signs of hyperglycemia?

A. Increased thirst and frequent urination
B. Decreased appetite and low blood pressure
C. Weight loss and nausea
D. Increased sweating and confusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased thirst and frequent urination. These are classic signs of hyperglycemia, indicating elevated blood sugar levels. Choice B is incorrect as hyperglycemia usually presents with increased appetite rather than decreased appetite and low blood pressure. Choice C is incorrect as weight loss is more commonly associated with uncontrolled diabetes rather than hyperglycemia. Choice D is incorrect as increased sweating and confusion are not typical signs of hyperglycemia.

3. A nurse is receiving report on four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to see first?

A. A client who is NPO and has dry mucous membranes
B. A client with rotavirus who has been vomiting
C. A client who has a urinary catheter and cloudy urine
D. A client who has pneumonia and a new onset of confusion

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a client with pneumonia and a new onset of confusion needs immediate evaluation for changes in neurological status. This could indicate a decline in respiratory status or potential complications such as hypoxia or sepsis. Option A, a client who is NPO and has dry mucous membranes, may need intervention but does not indicate an acute change in condition. Option B, a client with rotavirus who has been vomiting, requires assessment and intervention but does not pose an immediate threat to life. Option C, a client with a urinary catheter and cloudy urine, may indicate a urinary tract infection but does not require immediate attention compared to the client with new onset confusion and pneumonia.

4. When caring for a client diagnosed with delirium, what condition should the nurse prioritize investigating?

A. Investigate medication history
B. Investigate sensory deficits
C. Investigate cognitive functioning
D. Investigate for signs of infection

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to investigate for signs of infection when caring for a client diagnosed with delirium. Infections can frequently cause or worsen delirium. While investigating medication history, sensory deficits, and cognitive functioning may be important in the overall care of the client, when prioritizing, the nurse should first rule out or address potential infections due to their significant impact on delirium.

5. A nurse is teaching a client who has hypertension about dietary modifications. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Increase sodium intake
B. Reduce sodium intake to less than 1,500 mg per day
C. Limit caffeine intake
D. Increase caffeine intake to improve focus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Reduce sodium intake to less than 1,500 mg per day.' For clients with hypertension, reducing sodium intake is crucial as it helps manage blood pressure. High sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure. Choice A is incorrect because increasing sodium intake would worsen hypertension. Choice C is also correct as limiting caffeine intake is beneficial for managing hypertension. Choice D is incorrect as increasing caffeine intake can elevate blood pressure, which is detrimental for clients with hypertension.