Nursing Elites

1. Ralph has a history of alcohol abuse and has acute pancreatitis. Which lab value is most likely to be elevated?

• A. Calcium
• B. Glucose
• C. Magnesium
• D. Potassium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a patient with acute pancreatitis and a history of alcohol abuse, glucose levels are most likely to be elevated.

2. A Penrose drain is in place on the first postoperative day following a cholecystectomy. Serosanguineous drainage is noted on the dressing covering the drain. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

• A. Notify the physician.
• B. Change the dressing.
• C. Circle the amount on the dressing with a pen.
• D. Continue to monitor the drainage.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Serosanguineous drainage with a small amount of bile is expected from the Penrose drain for the first 24 hours. Drainage then decreases, and the drain is removed usually within 48 hours. The nurse does not need to notify the physician. A sterile dressing covers the site and should be changed to prevent infection and skin excoriation.

3. Which of the following treatments is used for rectal cancer but not for colon cancer?

• A. Chemotherapy
• B. Colonoscopy
• C. Radiation
• D. Surgical resection

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Radiation therapy is commonly used for rectal cancer to shrink the tumor before surgery, which is not typically done for colon cancer.

4. A nurse has been caring for a client with a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube. The physician arrives on the nursing unit and deflates the esophageal balloon. The nurse should monitor the client most closely for which of the following?

• A. Swelling of the abdomen
• B. Bloody diarrhea
• C. Vomiting blood
• D. An elevated temperature and arise in blood pressure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A Sengstaken-Blakemore tube is inserted into a client with a diagnosis of cirrhosis and ruptured esophageal varices. The tube has an esophageal and a gastric balloon. The esophageal balloon exerts pressure on the bleeding. The pressure of the esophageal balloon is released at intervals to decrease the risk of trauma to esophageal tissues, including esophageal rupture or necrosis. When the balloon is deflated the client may begin to bleed again from the esophageal varices, noted by vomiting of blood.

5. A client with ulcerative colitis has an order to begin salicylate medication to reduce inflammation. The nurse instructs the client to take the medication:

• A. 30 minutes before meals
• B. On an empty stomach
• C. After meals
• D. On arising

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: After meals. Salicylate medications for ulcerative colitis should be taken after meals to minimize gastrointestinal irritation and enhance absorption. Taking the medication on an empty stomach (Choice B) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it 30 minutes before meals (Choice A) may not provide enough protection for the stomach lining. Taking it on arising (Choice D) is not recommended as it may not coincide with the peak absorption times of the medication.

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