Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client following a craniotomy. Which finding should the nurse report immediately?

• A. Pupils equal and reactive to light.
• B. Sudden increase in urine output.
• C. Diminished breath sounds bilaterally.
• D. Increase in blood pressure by 20 mmHg.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Diminished breath sounds bilaterally.' This finding should be reported immediately as it could indicate a serious complication such as increased intracranial pressure or respiratory compromise. In a post-craniotomy client, changes in breath sounds may be a sign of developing issues that need prompt intervention. Choices A, B, and D are not as critical in the immediate post-craniotomy period. Pupils equal and reactive to light are expected findings, a sudden increase in urine output may require monitoring but not immediate reporting, and a small increase in blood pressure may not be alarming unless it is significantly high or accompanied by other concerning signs.

2. While caring for a client's postoperative dressing, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the wound. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should review which of the client's laboratory values?

• A. White blood cell count
• B. Hemoglobin
• C. Serum creatinine
• D. Culture for sensitive organisms

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Purulent drainage suggests an infection at the wound site. Reviewing the culture and sensitivity results will guide appropriate antibiotic treatment by identifying the causative organisms and their antibiotic sensitivities. Elevated white blood cells indicate infection but do not specify the organism. Creatinine and hemoglobin values are unrelated to wound infections.

3. A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). What should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Monitor for signs of liver toxicity.
• B. Assess for gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or diarrhea.
• C. Monitor for signs of infection, such as fever or sore throat.
• D. Administer DMARDs with meals to prevent gastrointestinal upset.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Correct Answer: Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever or sore throat, is crucial when a client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). DMARDs can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Early detection of infections allows for prompt treatment and helps prevent complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while liver toxicity and gastrointestinal side effects are possible side effects of DMARDs, monitoring for signs of infection takes priority due to the increased risk of infections associated with these medications.

4. A client with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is prescribed omeprazole. What is the primary purpose of this medication?

• A. Coat the lining of the stomach
• B. Neutralize stomach acid
• C. Promote gastric motility
• D. Reduce gastric acid secretion

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Reduce gastric acid secretion. Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that works by reducing the production of gastric acid in the stomach. This helps in managing GERD by decreasing the acidity levels in the stomach. Choice A is incorrect because omeprazole does not coat the lining of the stomach. Choice B is incorrect as omeprazole does not neutralize stomach acid but rather reduces its production. Choice C is incorrect because omeprazole does not promote gastric motility; instead, it acts on acid secretion.

5. The nurse is caring for a client receiving a blood transfusion who develops urticaria half an hour after the transfusion has begun. What is the first action the nurse should take?

• A. Stop the infusion
• B. Slow the rate of infusion
• C. Take vital signs and observe for further deterioration
• D. Administer Benadryl and continue the infusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when a client develops urticaria during a blood transfusion is to immediately stop the infusion. Urticaria is a sign of a transfusion reaction, and stopping the infusion is crucial to prevent the reaction from worsening. Slowing the rate of infusion (Choice B) is not appropriate in this situation as the reaction has already started. While taking vital signs and observing for further deterioration (Choice C) is important, the priority is to stop the transfusion. Administering Benadryl and continuing the infusion (Choice D) is not recommended until the client's condition has stabilized and healthcare provider orders have been obtained.

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