Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare professional is assessing a client who is post-operative following abdominal surgery. Which assessment finding would require immediate intervention?

• A. Absent bowel sounds
• B. Pain level of 8/10
• C. Temperature of 100.4°F
• D. Saturated abdominal dressing

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A saturated abdominal dressing may indicate active bleeding or other complications that require immediate intervention. This finding suggests a potential surgical site issue that needs urgent attention to prevent further complications. Absent bowel sounds, pain level, and a slightly elevated temperature are common post-operative findings that may not necessarily require immediate intervention compared to a saturated abdominal dressing. Absent bowel sounds can be common after surgery due to anesthesia but may resolve with time. Pain and slightly elevated temperature are expected post-operative findings that can be managed with appropriate pain relief and monitoring. However, a saturated abdominal dressing indicates a potential ongoing issue at the surgical site that needs prompt assessment and intervention to prevent complications.

2. The client with congestive heart failure (CHF) is receiving furosemide (Lasix). Which laboratory value should the healthcare provider monitor closely?

• A. Potassium
• B. Sodium
• C. Calcium
• D. Magnesium

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Correct! When a client is taking furosemide (Lasix), monitoring potassium levels is crucial due to the potential for hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium loss through increased urine output. Low potassium levels can predispose the client to cardiac dysrhythmias. Sodium, calcium, and magnesium levels are not typically affected by furosemide to the same extent as potassium, making them less critical to monitor in this scenario.

3. The patient diagnosed with athlete's foot (tinea pedis) states that he is relieved because it is only athlete's foot, and it can be treated easily. Which information about this condition should the nurse consider when formulating a response to the patient?

• A. It is contagious with frequent recurrences.
• B. It is most helpful to air-dry feet after bathing.
• C. It is treated with salicylic acid.
• D. It is caused by lice.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a contagious fungal infection that can easily spread to other body parts, particularly the hands. It often recurs if not properly treated, making choice A the correct answer. Choices B and C are incorrect because while it is beneficial to air-dry feet after bathing to prevent moisture buildup, athlete's foot is commonly treated with antifungal medications, not salicylic acid. Choice D is incorrect because athlete's foot is caused by a fungal infection, not lice.

4. While ambulating an unsteady client who begins to fall, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Allow the client to slide down their outstretched leg.
• B. Place their arms around the client to prevent the fall.
• C. Remain upright as the client falls toward them.
• D. Move quickly to a position in front of the client.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client is falling, allowing them to slide down your leg can help control the descent and prevent injury. This technique ensures a more controlled fall compared to attempting to catch or stop the client abruptly, which could lead to both the client and the nurse getting injured. Placing arms around the client may not provide enough support or control during the fall. Remaining upright or moving quickly in front of the client might not be practical or safe in this scenario.

5. The debilitated patient is resisting attempts by the nurse to provide oral hygiene. Which action will the nurse take next?

• A. Insert an oral airway.
• B. Place the patient in a flat, supine position.
• C. Use undiluted hydrogen peroxide as a cleaner.
• D. Quickly proceed without talking to the patient.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a debilitated patient resists oral hygiene, the nurse should prioritize safety. Inserting an oral airway helps keep the mouth open, ensuring adequate access for oral care procedures while preventing any accidental biting or closure of the airway. Placing the patient in a flat, supine position may not address the resistance issue and can lead to aspiration risk. Using undiluted hydrogen peroxide is not recommended due to its potential harmful effects on oral tissues. Proceeding quickly without communication can escalate the situation and compromise patient-centered care.

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