Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with a chest tube after thoracic surgery. What is the most important assessment related to the chest tube?

• A. Ensure continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber
• B. Measure the amount of drainage every shift
• C. Keep the drainage system at the level of the chest
• D. Assess for subcutaneous emphysema around the insertion site

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most important assessment related to a chest tube after thoracic surgery is to assess for subcutaneous emphysema around the insertion site. Subcutaneous emphysema can indicate air leakage from the pleural space, which can lead to serious complications such as a pneumothorax. Ensuring continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber is not the most critical assessment as it is a normal finding in a chest drainage system. While measuring the amount of drainage is important to monitor the client's condition, it is not as crucial as assessing for subcutaneous emphysema. Keeping the drainage system at the level of the chest helps maintain proper function but is not the most critical assessment in this scenario.

2. A client with a chronic illness expresses frustration over their condition. What is the nurse's best response to support the client?

• A. Encourage joining a support group for emotional support
• B. Discuss the possibility of a cure in the future
• C. Suggest focusing on positive aspects of their life
• D. Validate their feelings and listen to their concerns

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best response for the nurse to support a client expressing frustration over their chronic illness is to validate their feelings and listen to their concerns (Option D). This approach helps acknowledge the client's emotions, demonstrates empathy, and establishes a therapeutic relationship. By validating the client's feelings and actively listening to their concerns, the nurse offers a supportive environment for the client to express their frustrations. Choices A, B, and C are not the best responses in this situation. While joining a support group, discussing a cure, or focusing on positive aspects can be beneficial interventions, the immediate priority is to validate the client's feelings and provide a space for them to express their frustrations.

3. A client with a diagnosis of osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax). What is the most important instruction the nurse should provide?

• A. Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach.
• B. Take the medication at bedtime.
• C. Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• D. Take the medication with a full glass of water.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most important instruction the nurse should provide to a client prescribed alendronate (Fosamax) for osteoporosis is to take the medication with a full glass of water. This is crucial to help prevent esophageal irritation. Option A is correct as alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Option C is incorrect because the client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication, not lie down. Option B is incorrect and a duplicate of Option A.

4. A hospitalized toddler who is recovering from a sickle cell crisis holds a toy and says, 'Mine.' According to Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, this child's behavior is a demonstration of which developmental stage?

• A. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
• B. Industry vs. Inferiority
• C. Initiative vs. Guilt
• D. Trust vs. Mistrust

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The toddler's behavior of asserting possession ('Mine') reflects a desire for independence, aligning with Erikson's stage of Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt. This stage, typical for toddlers aged 1-3 years, focuses on developing a sense of control and independence. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: Industry vs. Inferiority relates to middle childhood, Initiative vs. Guilt pertains to preschoolers, and Trust vs. Mistrust is associated with infancy.

5. What should the nurse prioritize when providing discharge instructions to a client with a new colostomy?

• A. Skin care around the stoma site
• B. The schedule for colostomy bag replacement
• C. Techniques for odor control
• D. Dietary modifications

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Correct answer: Skin care around the stoma site. Proper skin care around the stoma site is crucial for preventing skin irritation and infection, which are common issues for patients with new colostomies. While the schedule for colostomy bag replacement (Option B) is important, it is not the priority during initial discharge instructions. Techniques for odor control (Option C) are relevant but secondary to skin care for a new colostomy. Dietary modifications (Option D) may be discussed later but are not the priority at this stage.

Similar Questions