Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client who has undergone a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Which action should the nurse take to prevent postoperative complications?

• A. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe every 1 to 2 hours.
• B. Maintain the client in a supine position at all times.
• C. Keep the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours.
• D. Restrict the client's fluid intake to prevent overload.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging the client to cough and deep breathe every 1 to 2 hours is crucial post-CABG surgery to prevent respiratory complications, such as atelectasis and pneumonia. These actions help to expand lung volume, clear secretions, and prevent the collapse of alveoli. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because maintaining the client in a supine position at all times can lead to complications like decreased lung expansion, keeping the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours may increase the risk of thromboembolism, and restricting fluid intake postoperatively can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

2. When educating a client with a new prescription for nitroglycerin, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Store the medication in a cool, dark place.
• B. Take the medication before bedtime.
• C. Take the medication with food.
• D. Take the medication at the first sign of chest pain.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with a new prescription for nitroglycerin is to take the medication at the first sign of chest pain. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator used to relieve chest pain associated with angina. Taking it at the onset of chest pain ensures prompt relief by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart muscle. Storing nitroglycerin in a cool, dark place helps maintain its potency, while taking it with food can alter its absorption. Timing the medication with bedtime is not necessary, but prompt administration at the first sign of chest pain is crucial for effective management of angina. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because storing the medication in a cool, dark place, taking it before bedtime, and taking it with food are not essential instructions for nitroglycerin use. The priority is to administer it promptly when chest pain occurs to achieve optimal therapeutic effects.

3. The LPN/LVN is reinforcing instructions to a client on the use of a metered-dose inhaler. The nurse should recognize that the client is using the inhaler correctly if the client takes which action?

• A. Takes a deep breath and then exhales just before administration
• B. Holds the mouthpiece 1 to 2 inches from the mouth
• C. Inhales the medication and then exhales immediately after administration
• D. Performs 3 short inhalations and then exhales deeply after administration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When using a metered-dose inhaler, the client should take a deep breath and then exhale just before administration. This technique helps ensure that the medication is inhaled effectively. By exhaling before administration, the client can fully inhale the medication into the lungs, maximizing its therapeutic effects. Choice B is incorrect because holding the mouthpiece 1 to 2 inches from the mouth is not a crucial step for using a metered-dose inhaler correctly. Choice C is incorrect because inhaling the medication and then exhaling immediately after administration would not allow the medication to be adequately absorbed into the lungs. Choice D is incorrect because performing 3 short inhalations and then exhaling deeply after administration is not the correct technique for using a metered-dose inhaler.

4. A healthcare professional is reviewing laboratory results for a client with rheumatoid arthritis prescribed methotrexate. Which of the following laboratory results should the healthcare professional report to the provider?

• A. WBC count 1,200/mm³
• B. Hemoglobin 14 g/dL
• C. Platelets 150,000/mm³
• D. Blood glucose 110 mg/dL

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A WBC count of 1,200/mm³ indicates leukopenia, a serious side effect of methotrexate that can lead to increased risk of infections. It is crucial to report this finding promptly to the provider for further evaluation and possible adjustments in the treatment plan. Choices B, C, and D are within normal ranges and do not represent significant concerns related to methotrexate therapy in this context.

5. A client with chronic heart failure has been prescribed furosemide (Lasix). Which instruction should the nurse reinforce to the client regarding this medication?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Limit foods high in potassium while taking this medication.
• C. Report any muscle cramps or weakness to your healthcare provider.
• D. Expect to urinate more frequently while on this medication.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to reinforce to the client regarding furosemide (Lasix) is to report any muscle cramps or weakness to the healthcare provider. Muscle cramps or weakness may indicate hypokalemia, a potential side effect of furosemide. Monitoring and reporting these symptoms promptly can help in preventing complications related to electrolyte imbalances. Choice A is incorrect because furosemide should be taken on an empty stomach. Choice B is not directly related to furosemide use; in fact, foods high in potassium may be beneficial for clients taking furosemide to prevent hypokalemia. Choice D is a common expected side effect of furosemide due to its diuretic action but is not as crucial to report as potential signs of electrolyte imbalances.

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