Nursing Elites

1. The advanced directive in a client's chart is dated August 12, 1998. The client's daughter produces a Power of Attorney for Health Care, dated 2003, which contains different care directions. What should the nurse do?

• A. Follow the 1998 version because it's part of the legal chart.
• B. Follow the 1998 version because the physician's code order is based on it.
• C. Follow the 2003 version, place it in the chart, and communicate the update appropriately.
• D. Follow neither until clarified by the unit manager.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The document dated 2003 supersedes the previous version and should be used as a basis for care directions. The nurse should follow the 2003 version, place it in the chart, and communicate the update appropriately to ensure that the most current care directions are followed. Choices A and B are incorrect because the 1998 version is now outdated, and the nurse should not rely on it for care decisions. Choice D is incorrect because the nurse should not delay following the updated document, and seeking clarification from the unit manager can lead to avoidable delays in care.

2. A client asks a nurse about the procedure for becoming an organ donor. The nurse provides the client with which information?

• A. To speak with the chaplain about the psychosocial aspects of becoming a donor
• B. That this decision must be made by the next of kin at the time of the client's death
• C. That anatomic gifts must be made in writing and signed by the client
• D. To let the health care provider know about the request so that it may be documented in the client's record

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a person wishes to become an organ donor, they need to understand that anatomic gifts must be made in writing and signed by the individual. The gift must be made by the donor themselves, typically an individual who is at least 18 years old. If the client is unable to sign, the document should be signed by another person and two witnesses. While speaking to a chaplain or informing the healthcare provider may be part of the process, the essential step is to have a written document signed by the client. Choice A is incorrect as it does not address the procedural aspect of becoming an organ donor. Choice B is incorrect as the decision to make an anatomic gift is typically made by the individual themselves, not the next of kin. Choice D is incorrect as simply informing the healthcare provider is not sufficient for the procedure of becoming an organ donor; a written and signed document by the client is necessary.

3. Which of the following neurological disorders is characterized by writhing, twisting movements of the face and limbs?

• A. epilepsy
• B. Parkinson's
• C. multiple sclerosis
• D. Huntington's chorea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Huntington's chorea is a neurological disorder characterized by writhing, twisting movements of the face and limbs, known as chorea. Epilepsy is characterized by seizures, not writhing, twisting movements. Parkinson's disease presents with tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, not writhing, twisting movements. Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system but does not typically involve writhing, twisting movements. Therefore, the correct answer is Huntington's chorea as it specifically manifests with these characteristic movements.

4. A client who is immobilized secondary to traction is complaining of constipation. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to be ordered?

• A. Advil
• B. Anasaid
• C. Clinocil
• D. Colace

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Colace is a stool softener that acts by pulling more water into the bowel lumen, making the stool soft and easier to evacuate. In the given scenario of constipation in an immobilized client, a stool softener like Colace is the appropriate choice to help facilitate bowel movements. Advil and Anasaid are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for pain relief, not for constipation. Clinocil is not a recognized medication for constipation relief.

5. A client has experienced a CVA with right hemiparesis and is ready for discharge from the hospital to a long-term care facility for rehab. To provide optimal continuity of care, the nurse should do all of the following except:

• A. document the current functional status
• B. have the physician fax a report to the receiving facility
• C. copy appropriate parts of the medical record for transport to the receiving facility
• D. phone a report to the facility

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To ensure optimal continuity of care for a client transitioning to a long-term care facility for rehab after a CVA, the nurse plays a crucial role in communication. Documenting the current functional status is essential for the receiving facility to plan appropriate care. Copying relevant parts of the medical record for transport provides important background information. Phoning a report directly to the facility is a direct and effective way to communicate the client's condition and care plan. However, having the physician fax a report to the receiving facility introduces an extra step that may delay essential information transfer and increase the risk of miscommunication. Therefore, it is not the optimal choice for ensuring seamless continuity of care.

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