Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with a serum potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L. The client is placed on a cardiac monitor and receives 40 mEq potassium chloride in 1000 ml of 5% dextrose in water IV. Which of the following EKG patterns indicates to the nurse that the infusions should be discontinued?

• A. Narrowed QRS complex
• B. Shortened "PR"? interval
• C. Tall peaked "T"? waves
• D. Prominent "U"? waves

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A tall peaked T wave is a characteristic EKG pattern associated with hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia refers to high levels of potassium in the blood, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and other serious complications. Tall peaked T waves are a red flag for potential cardiac issues and can indicate the need to discontinue potassium infusions. The other choices, such as narrowed QRS complex, shortened "PR"? interval, and prominent "U"? waves, are not typically associated with hyperkalemia. Therefore, recognizing tall peaked T waves is crucial for the nurse to take prompt action in managing the client's condition.

2. During an admission assessment on a 2-year-old child diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, the nurse notes that which characteristic is most commonly associated with this syndrome?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Generalized edema
• C. Increased urinary output
• D. Frank, bright red blood in the urine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nephrotic syndrome in children is characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and edema. The most common manifestation is generalized edema due to protein loss in the urine, leading to decreased plasma oncotic pressure. This results in fluid shifting into the interstitial spaces, causing edema. Hypertension is not a typical feature of nephrotic syndrome in children. Increased urinary output is not a common finding; instead, children with nephrotic syndrome often have decreased urine output due to decreased renal perfusion. The presence of frank, bright red blood in the urine is not a typical characteristic of nephrotic syndrome but may indicate a different renal condition such as glomerulonephritis.

3. After surgery for an imperforate anus, an infant returns with a red and edematous colostomy stoma. What action should the nurse take based on this finding?

• A. Elevate the buttocks.
• B. Document the findings.
• C. Apply ice immediately.
• D. Call the primary health care provider.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A red and edematous colostomy stoma is a common finding immediately after surgery, and these changes are expected to decrease over time. As the stoma heals, it usually becomes pink without signs of abnormal drainage, swelling, or skin breakdown. Therefore, the appropriate action for the nurse is to document these normal findings. Elevating the buttocks, applying ice, or calling the primary health care provider are unnecessary interventions at this stage.

4. When reading a lab report, you notice that a patient's sample is described as having anisocytosis. Which of the following most accurately describes the patient's condition?

• A. The patient has an abnormal condition of skin cells.
• B. The patient's red blood cells vary in size.
• C. The patient has a high level of fat cells and is obese.
• D. The patient's cells are indicative of necrosis.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Anisocytosis is a term that indicates variation in the size of red blood cells. When a patient is described as having anisocytosis, it means their red blood cells exhibit differences in size. This condition can be detected in blood samples and may indicate underlying blood disorders. The other choices are incorrect: Choice A refers to a skin cell condition, Choice C relates to obesity and fat cells, and Choice D suggests necrosis, none of which are associated with anisocytosis or red blood cell abnormalities. It is important to recognize specific terms like anisocytosis in laboratory reports to understand the potential implications for the patient's health.

5. A 38-year-old patient with cirrhosis has ascites and 4+ edema of the feet and legs. Which nursing action will be included in the plan of care?

• A. Restrict daily dietary protein intake.
• B. Reposition the patient every 4 hours.
• C. Place the patient on a pressure-relieving mattress.
• D. Perform passive range of motion daily.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Placing the patient on a pressure-relieving mattress is crucial to decrease the risk of skin breakdown, especially with significant edema and ascites. Adequate dietary protein intake is essential in patients with ascites to improve oncotic pressure and prevent malnutrition. Repositioning the patient every 4 hours alone may not be sufficient to prevent skin breakdown, especially in areas prone to pressure ulcers. Performing passive range of motion exercises is important for maintaining joint mobility but does not directly address the risk of skin breakdown associated with prolonged pressure on vulnerable areas.

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