Nursing Elites

1. In taking the client’s blood pressure, the nurse should position the client’s arm:

• A. At the level of the heart
• B. Slightly above the level of the heart
• C. At the 5th intercostals space midclavicular line
• D. Below the level of the heart

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Proper patient positioning is essential for maximizing lung expansion and promoting the drainage of secretions. Postural drainage techniques rely on gravity to help clear different lung segments, which is critical in preventing complications such as atelectasis or pneumonia in immobilized patients.

2. Each statement is true of proteins, except one. Which is the exception?

• A. Proteins are composed of building blocks called amino acids
• B. The classification of the 20 common amino acids is based on the properties of their side chains
• C. The general structure of an amino acid varies considerably
• D. Amino acids polymerize to form long chains called polypeptides

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The classification of the 20 common amino acids is not based on the properties of their side chains, but rather on the structure of their amino and carboxyl groups. These groups are consistent among all amino acids, while the side chains, also known as R groups, are what vary and give each amino acid its unique properties. Choice A is correct because proteins are indeed composed of amino acids. Choice C is incorrect because while the side chains of amino acids can vary, the general structure of an amino acid - a central carbon atom bonded to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a side chain - is consistent. Choice D is correct because amino acids do polymerize to form long chains called polypeptides, which can then fold into complex shapes to form proteins.

3. Which factor contributes to the development of bone diseases in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) due to retention?

• A. Iron
• B. Sodium
• C. Potassium
• D. Phosphorus

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is phosphorus. Retention of phosphorus in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) contributes to the development of bone disorders, including osteodystrophy, because it disrupts the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body. This imbalance leads to a variety of bone diseases. The other options - iron, sodium, and potassium - while important in the overall metabolic function, are not directly linked to the development of bone diseases in CKD patients due to retention.

4. Overdosage of medication or anesthetic can happen even with the aid of technology like infusion pumps, sphygmomanometer, and similar devices/machines. As a staff member, how can you improve the safety of using infusion pumps?

• A. Check the functionality of the pump before use
• B. Select the brand of infusion pump carefully
• C. Allow the technician to set the infusion pump before use
• D. Verify the flow rate against your calculation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: To enhance the safety of using infusion pumps, it is crucial to verify the flow rate against your calculation. This step ensures that the prescribed dosage is being delivered accurately, reducing the risk of medication errors. Checking the functionality of the pump before use (Choice A) is also important to ensure it is working properly. Allowing the technician to set the pump (Choice C) may not always guarantee the correct settings. Selecting the brand of infusion pump carefully (Choice B) is not directly related to the safe use of the pump.

5. A nurse is caring for a client with a major burn injury and is receiving TPN. Which of the following lab tests is the priority for the nurse to use to confirm the client is receiving adequate nutrition?

• A. Iron
• B. Magnesium
• C. Folic acid
• D. Prealbumin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Prealbumin is a sensitive indicator of protein status and nutrition, making it a priority for assessing nutritional adequacy in clients receiving TPN. Iron, magnesium, and folic acid levels are important for overall health but do not specifically indicate nutritional adequacy in the context of TPN administration.

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