Nursing Elites

1. The nurse has inserted a nasogastric tube to the level of the oropharynx and has repositioned the client’s head in a flexed-forward position. The client has been asked to begin swallowing. The nurse starts slowly to advance the nasogastric tube with each swallow. The client begins to cough, gag, and choke. Which nursing action would least likely result in proper tube insertion and promote client relaxation?

• A. Continuing to advance the tube to the desired distance
• B. Pulling the tube back slightly
• C. Checking the back of the pharynx using a tongue blade and flashlight.
• D. Instructing the client to breathe slowly and take sips of water.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: As the nasogastric tube is passed through the oropharynx, the gag reflex is stimulated, which may cause coughing, gagging, or choking. Instead of passing through to the esophagus, the nasogastric tube may coil around itself in the oropharynx, or it may enter the larynx and obstruct the airway, pulling the tube back slightly will remove it from the larynx; advancing the tube might position it in the trachea. Swallowing closes the epiglottis over the trachea and helps move the tube into the esophagus. Slow breathing helps the client relax to reduce the gag response. The nurse should check the back of the client’s throat to note if the tube has coiled. The tube may be advanced after the client relaxes.

2. An enema is prescribed for a client with suspected appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Prepare 750 ml of irrigating solution warmed to 100*F
• B. Question the physician about the order
• C. Provide privacy and explain the procedure to the client
• D. Assist the client to left lateral Sim’s position

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An enema is contraindicated in clients with suspected appendicitis because it can increase the risk of perforation. It is important to verify the appropriateness of this order with the physician.

3. Before bowel surgery, Lee is to administer enemas until clear. During administration, he complains of intestinal cramps. What do you do next?

• A. Discontinue the procedure.
• B. Lower the height of the enema container.
• C. Complete the procedure as quickly as possible.
• D. Continue administration of the enema as ordered without making any adjustments.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: If a patient complains of intestinal cramps during an enema, lowering the height of the enema container can help reduce discomfort.

4. Regina is a 46 y.o. woman with ulcerative colitis. You expect her stools to look like:

• A. Watery and frothy.
• B. Bloody and mucoid.
• C. Firm and well-formed.
• D. Alternating constipation and diarrhea.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Stools in ulcerative colitis are typically bloody and mucoid.

5. Matt is a 49 y.o. with a hiatal hernia that you are about to counsel. Health care counseling for Matt should include which of the following instructions?

• A. Restrict intake of high-carbohydrate foods.
• B. Increase fluid intake with meals.
• C. Increase fat intake.
• D. Eat three regular meals a day.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: For a patient with a hiatal hernia, it is important to eat three regular meals a day to prevent symptoms.

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