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. Fistulas are most common with which of the following bowel disorders?

• A. Crohn’s disease
• B. Diverticulitis
• C. Diverticulosis
• D. Ulcerative colitis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fistulas are most common in Crohn's disease due to the transmural inflammation that characterizes this condition.

3. A client with viral hepatitis states, 'I am so yellow.' The nurse most appropriately would

• A. Assist the client in expressing feelings.
• B. Do most of the activities of daily living for the client.
• C. Provide information to the client only when the client requests it.
• D. Restrict visitors until the jaundice subsides.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To assist the client in adapting to changes in appearance, the nurse must encourage participation in self-care to foster independence and self-esteem. The nurse should encourage the client to ask questions to clarify misconceptions, learn ways to prevent the spread of hepatitis to reduce fear, and make appropriate decisions. Restricting visitors will reinforce the client’s negative self-esteem.

4. Which of the following terms best describes the pain associated with appendicitis?

• A. Aching
• B. Fleeting
• C. Intermittent
• D. Steady

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Steady. The pain associated with appendicitis is typically constant and steady, especially in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. It is not described as aching (choice A) because it is more persistent and severe than a dull ache. It is not fleeting (choice B) as appendicitis pain tends to worsen over time. It is also not intermittent (choice C) as the pain is continuous and does not come and go.

5. Which of the following symptoms is common with a hiatal hernia?

• A. Left arm pain
• B. Lower back pain
• C. Esophageal reflux
• D. Abdominal cramping

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Esophageal reflux is a common symptom of a hiatal hernia because the hernia can cause stomach acid to move back up into the esophagus.

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