Nursing Elites

1. Following an open reduction and internal fixation of a compound fracture of the leg, a male client complains of “a tingly sensation” in his left foot. The nurse determines the client’s left pedal pulses are diminished. Based on these findings, what is the client’s greatest risk?

• A. Reduce pulmonary ventilation and oxygenation related to fat embolism.
• B. Neurovascular and circulation compromise related to compartment syndrome.
• C. Wound infection and delayed healing due to fractured bone protrusion.
• D. Venous stasis and thrombophlebitis related to postoperative immobility.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can occur following trauma or surgery, leading to compromised neurovascular status in the affected limb. Symptoms include pain, paresthesia (tingling sensation), and diminished pulses. If left untreated, compartment syndrome can result in tissue damage and potential loss of limb function. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the neurovascular compromise associated with compartment syndrome.

2. In a client in her third trimester of pregnancy, an S3 heart sound is auscultated. What intervention should the nurse take?

• A. Notify the healthcare provider
• B. Limit the client’s fluids
• C. Prepare the client for an echocardiogram
• D. Document in the client’s record

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An S3 heart sound can be a normal finding in pregnancy due to increased blood volume and flow. In this scenario, there is no immediate need for further interventions. Documenting this finding in the client's record is essential for tracking the client's health status and ensuring proper follow-up if needed. Notifying the healthcare provider, limiting fluids, or preparing for an echocardiogram is unnecessary as it is likely a physiological finding in pregnancy. These interventions should only be considered if other symptoms suggestive of a cardiac issue are present.

3. A client taking clopidogrel reports the onset of diarrhea. Which nursing action should the nurse implement first?

• A. Observe the appearance of the stool
• B. Assess the client’s skin turgor
• C. Review the client’s laboratory values
• D. Auscultate the client’s bowel sounds

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Observing the stool’s appearance should be implemented first as it helps determine the nature and possible severity of the diarrhea, which is essential in managing the side effect. Assessing skin turgor (Choice B) is not the priority in this situation. Reviewing laboratory values (Choice C) can provide additional information but is not the initial step. Auscultating bowel sounds (Choice D) is not the priority when the client is experiencing diarrhea.

4. In what order should the nurse perform the steps of a surgical hand scrub prior to entering the operating room?

• A. Rinse from the fingertips to the elbow
• B. Scrape under the nails with a nail pick
• C. Use a soapy brush to scrub the hands
• D. Cleanse the arm with a lathered brush

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct order for performing a surgical hand scrub is to first scrape under the nails with a nail pick, then scrub the hands using a soapy brush, cleanse the arms, and finally rinse. This sequence ensures thorough cleaning and minimizes the risk of contamination. Choice A is incorrect because rinsing should be the final step, not the first. Choice C is incorrect as scrubbing the hands comes after scraping under the nails. Choice D is incorrect as cleansing the arms should follow hand scrubbing, not precede it.

5. Several clients on a busy antepartum unit are scheduled for procedures that require informed consent. Which situation should the nurse explore further before witnessing the client's signature on the consent form?

• A. The client was medicated for pain with a narcotic analgesic IM 6 hours ago
• B. A 15-year-old primigravida who has been self-supporting for the past 6 months
• C. The obstetrician explained a procedure that a neurologist will perform
• D. The client is illiterate but verbalizes understanding and consent for the procedure

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because an illiterate client may require additional support to ensure they fully comprehend the information provided in the informed consent process. It is crucial to confirm that the client truly understands the nature of the procedure, its risks, and benefits. While it is important to assess pain control (choice A), a client's previous medication administration does not directly impact their ability to understand the consent process. Choice B, a 15-year-old primigravida who has been self-supporting, may legally provide informed consent depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances, so this situation may not require further exploration. Choice C, explaining a procedure by a different specialist, does not necessarily require additional exploration before witnessing the client's consent.

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