Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is assessing the newborn's respirations. Which of these findings would indicate a need for follow-up and further intervention?

• A. irregular respirations
• B. abdominal respirations
• C. shallow respirations
• D. 70 breaths per minute

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The ideal respiratory rate in a newborn is 30-60 breaths per minute. A respiratory rate of 70 breaths per minute indicates tachypnea and may require intervention. Therefore, a rate of 70 breaths per minute would necessitate follow-up and further intervention. Irregular, abdominal, and shallow respirations are common in newborns and may not necessarily indicate the need for immediate follow-up or intervention.

2. After a client has a tubal ligation in the outpatient surgical clinic, what is the priority for the nurse to determine?

• A. The client's prior experiences with outpatient surgery
• B. The client's medical plan and the extent of coverage for outpatient surgery
• C. The client's plan for transportation and care at home
• D. The client's plan to spend the night at the surgical center

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The priority for the nurse is to ensure the client has a safe way to get home and adequate care after discharge. It is crucial to determine the client's transportation arrangements and availability of care at home to ensure a smooth transition postoperatively. Options A and B, though important, are not immediate priorities compared to the client's safety and well-being after the procedure. Option D is incorrect as spending the night at the surgical center is not typically part of the plan for outpatient surgery.

3. What is the priority nursing action for a laboring client dilated to 6 cm receiving an epidural?

• A. Continuous monitoring of maternal blood pressure.
• B. Frequent auscultation of the fetal heart rate.
• C. Administering an IV fluid bolus of at least 500 cc.
• D. Frequent monitoring of the maternal temperature.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing action for a laboring client dilated to 6 cm receiving an epidural is continuous monitoring of maternal blood pressure. This is crucial because epidural anesthesia can lead to a precipitous drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for both the mother and fetus by reducing cardiac output and placental perfusion. While frequent auscultation of the fetal heart rate is important, it is not the priority in this situation. Administering an IV fluid bolus of at least 500 cc may not be necessary if the client's blood pressure is stable. Monitoring the maternal temperature is also essential but takes precedence over blood pressure monitoring.

4. A nurse is covering a pediatric unit and is responsible for a 15-year-old male patient on the floor. The mother of the child states, "I think my son is sexually interested in girls."? The most appropriate course of action for the nurse is to respond by stating:

• A. "I will talk to the doctor about it."?
• B. "Has this been going on for a while?"?
• C. "How do you know this?"?
• D. "Teenagers often exhibit signs of sexual interest in females."?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most appropriate response for the nurse in this situation is to acknowledge that teenagers often exhibit signs of sexual interest in females. This response normalizes the mother's concern and provides reassurance that such behavior is typical during adolescence. Option A deflects the conversation to the doctor without addressing the mother's concern directly. Option B focuses on the duration rather than addressing the mother's statement. Option C may come off as defensive or dismissive, questioning the mother's observation. Therefore, the best response is to acknowledge the normalcy of teenage behavior regarding sexual interest.

5. The nurse observes a nursing assistant performing AM care for a client with a new leg cast. Which action by the assistant will the nurse intervene?

• A. Lifting the affected leg with the palms of the hands
• B. Covering the affected leg with a blanket to avoid chills
• C. Placing plastic over the groin prior to bathing
• D. Elevating the casted leg on two pillows

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to intervene when the assistant covers the affected leg with a blanket to avoid chills. A new cast should not be covered to allow the heat from the cast to evaporate, preventing complications. Lifting the affected leg with the palms of the hands is appropriate for proper handling. Placing plastic over the groin prior to bathing is a standard practice to protect the client's privacy and maintain hygiene. Elevating the casted leg on two pillows helps reduce swelling and promote circulation, making it a suitable action.

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