Nursing Elites

1. The client being treated for esophageal varices has a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube inserted to control the bleeding. The most important assessment is for the nurse to:

• A. Check that the hemostat is on the bedside
• B. Monitor IV fluids for the shift
• C. Regularly assess respiratory status
• D. Check that the balloon is deflated on a regular basis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Regularly assessing respiratory status is crucial when a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube is inserted to control bleeding in esophageal varices.

2. A 30-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with complaints of severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea. The nurse evaluates the effectiveness of the patient's intravenous therapy. Which of the following laboratory tests BEST reflects hydration status?

• A. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
• B. White blood cell count.
• C. Hematocrit.
• D. Serum glucose.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Hematocrit is the best indicator of hydration status because it reflects the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. An increased hematocrit indicates dehydration, as the blood becomes more concentrated due to fluid loss. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (Choice A) is a nonspecific marker of inflammation, not hydration status. White blood cell count (Choice B) is an indicator of infection or inflammation. Serum glucose (Choice D) is used to monitor blood sugar levels, not hydration status.

3. Which of the following symptoms would a client in the early stages of peritonitis exhibit?

• A. Abdominal distention
• B. Abdominal pain and rigidity
• C. Hyperactive bowel sounds
• D. Right upper quadrant pain

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the early stages of peritonitis, the client would exhibit abdominal pain and rigidity due to inflammation.

4. Rob is a 46 y.o. admitted to the hospital with a suspected diagnosis of Hepatitis B. He’s jaundiced and reports weakness. Which intervention will you include in his care?

• A. Regular exercise.
• B. A low-protein diet.
• C. Allow patient to select his meals.
• D. Rest period after small, frequent meals.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: For a patient with hepatitis B who is jaundiced and reports weakness, providing rest periods after small, frequent meals is important.

5. You are developing a careplan on Sally, a 67 y.o. patient with hepatic encephalopathy. Which of the following do you include?

• A. Administering a lactulose enema as ordered.
• B. Encouraging a protein-rich diet.
• C. Administering sedatives, as necessary.
• D. Encouraging ambulation at least four times a day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering a lactulose enema as ordered helps reduce ammonia levels in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.

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