Nursing Elites

1. The nurse aspirates 40 mL of undigested formula from the client’s nasogastric tube. Before administering an intermittent tube feeding, the nurse understands that the 40 mL of gastric aspirate should be

• A. Discarded properly and recorded as output on the client’s intake and output record.
• B. Poured into the nasogastric tube through a syringe with the plunger removed.
• C. Mixed with the formula and poured into the nasogastric tube through a syringe with the plunger removed.
• D. Diluted with water and injected into the nasogastric tube by putting pressure on the plunger.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After checking the residual feeding contents, the gastric contents are reinstalled into the stomach by removing the syringe bulb or plunger and pouring the gastric contents into the syringe and through the nasogastric tube. Gastric contents should be reinstalled to maintain the client’s electrolyte balance. The gastric contents should be poured into the nasogastric tube through a syringe without a plunger and not injected by putting pressure on the plunger. Gastric contents do not need to be mixed with water or should the contents be discarded.

2. After a right hemicolectomy for treatment of colon cancer, a 57-year old client is reluctant to turn while on bed rest. Which action by the nurse would be appropriate?

• A. Asking a co-worker to help turn the client
• B. Explaining to the client why turning is important.
• C. Allowing the client to turn when he’s ready to do so
• D. Telling the client that the physician’s order states he must turn every 2 hours

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Educating the client about the importance of turning can encourage compliance and promote understanding of the necessity to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and pneumonia.

3. Which of the following laboratory results would be expected in a client with peritonitis?

• A. Partial thromboplastin time above 100 seconds
• B. Hemoglobin level below 10 mg/dL
• C. Potassium level above 5.5 mEq/L
• D. White blood cell count above 15,000

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A white blood cell count above 15,000 is indicative of an infection, such as peritonitis.

4. The most important pathophysiologic factor contributing to the formation of esophageal varices is:

• A. Decreased prothrombin formation
• B. Decreased albumin formation by the liver
• C. Portal hypertension
• D. Increased central venous pressure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Portal hypertension is the most important pathophysiologic factor contributing to the formation of esophageal varices.

5. Glenda has cholelithiasis (gallstones). You expect her to complain of:

• A. Pain in the right upper quadrant, radiating to the shoulder.
• B. Pain in the right lower quadrant, with rebound tenderness.
• C. Pain in the left upper quadrant, with shortness of breath.
• D. Pain in the left lower quadrant, with mild cramping.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patients with cholelithiasis often complain of pain in the right upper quadrant, radiating to the shoulder.

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