Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is assessing a client who has been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which clinical finding is characteristic of this condition?

• A. Pursed-lip breathing
• B. Hyperresonance on percussion
• C. Bradycardia
• D. High-pitched inspiratory crackles

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pursed-lip breathing is a characteristic finding in clients with COPD. It helps keep the airways open during exhalation, acting as a compensatory mechanism to prevent airway collapse, which is common in COPD. Hyperresonance on percussion is typically found in conditions like emphysema, which is a component of COPD but not characteristic of the overall disease. Bradycardia is not typical in COPD; instead, clients often exhibit tachycardia due to chronic hypoxemia. High-pitched inspiratory crackles are more commonly associated with conditions like pneumonia, not COPD.

2. The nurse is monitoring a client who started taking a new medication for rheumatoid arthritis. What is the most important aspect to monitor?

• A. Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding
• B. Liver function tests
• C. Renal function tests
• D. All necessary monitoring based on the medication prescribed

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client starts a new medication for rheumatoid arthritis, it is crucial to monitor all necessary aspects based on the specific medication prescribed. Different medications can have varying side effects and impacts on different organ systems. Monitoring all relevant parameters ensures the early detection of any adverse effects and helps to maintain the client's safety. While monitoring for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, liver function tests, and renal function tests are all important in certain situations, the priority is to conduct comprehensive monitoring based on the medication's known effects.

3. How should the nurse respond to an older male client who states that his religion does not permit him to bathe daily?

• A. Review the importance of hygienic measures for improved health
• B. State that the healthcare provider has prescribed a bath today
• C. Offer the client several choices of times to bathe during the day
• D. Request that the client clarify his religious beliefs about bathing

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct response is to offer the client several choices of times to bathe during the day. This approach respects the client's religious beliefs while ensuring that hygienic practices are still maintained. By providing options, the nurse can work together with the client to find a solution that aligns with both his beliefs and his health needs. Choice A is incorrect because solely reviewing the importance of hygiene may not address the client's specific religious concerns. Choice B is inappropriate as it disregards the client's beliefs and autonomy. Choice D is not the best approach as it may come off as confrontational or dismissive of the client's beliefs, rather than working collaboratively to find a suitable solution.

4. A client is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of Pneumonia. Which intervention should the nurse implement to prevent complications associated with Pneumonia?

• A. Encourage mobilization and ambulation
• B. Encourage energy conservation with complete bed rest
• C. Provide humidified oxygen via nasal cannula
• D. Restrict oral (PO) and intravenous fluids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct intervention to prevent complications associated with pneumonia is to encourage mobilization and ambulation. These activities help prevent complications such as atelectasis by promoting lung expansion. Encouraging energy conservation with complete bed rest (Choice B) is not ideal as it can lead to complications like muscle weakness and decreased lung expansion. Providing humidified oxygen via nasal cannula (Choice C) is important in pneumonia treatment but does not directly prevent complications associated with pneumonia itself. Restricting oral (PO) and intravenous fluids (Choice D) is not recommended as adequate hydration is crucial for pneumonia patients to maintain respiratory function and overall health.

5. A client with a diagnosis of hypertension is prescribed a thiazide diuretic. Which potential side effect should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hypernatremia
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Hypoglycemia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Hypokalemia.' Thiazide diuretics commonly cause potassium loss, which can lead to hypokalemia. Monitoring potassium levels is essential when a client is taking thiazide diuretics to prevent complications such as cardiac dysrhythmias. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Hyperkalemia (choice A) is an elevated level of potassium, which is not typically associated with thiazide diuretics. Hypernatremia (choice B) is an elevated level of sodium, and hypoglycemia (choice D) is low blood sugar, neither of which are directly linked to thiazide diuretic use.

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