Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and suspects that the client may be developing hepatic encephalopathy. Which assessment by the nurse suggests that the client is developing this complication?

• A. Asterixis
• B. Hypertension
• C. Kussmaul respirations
• D. Lethargy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Asterixis, also known as flapping tremors, is a characteristic sign of hepatic encephalopathy. It is a flapping tremor of the hands when the wrists are extended, indicating neurological impairment. Hypertension and Kussmaul respirations are not directly associated with hepatic encephalopathy. Lethargy is a common symptom but not a specific sign that suggests the development of hepatic encephalopathy.

2. What is the primary sign of displacement following a total hip replacement?

• A. pain on movement and weight bearing
• B. hemorrhage
• C. affected leg appearing 1-2 inches longer
• D. edema in the area of the incision

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is pain on movement and weight bearing. This pain is the primary sign of prosthesis displacement after a total hip replacement, indicating pressure on nerves or muscles due to dislocation. Hemorrhage is not typically associated with prosthesis displacement. While the affected leg may appear longer, this is not the primary sign of displacement; it might actually be shorter due to muscle spasm. Edema in the incision area is not a primary indicator of prosthesis displacement.

3. When placing an IV line in a patient with active TB and HIV, which safety equipment should the nurse wear?

• A. Sterile gloves, mask, and goggles
• B. Surgical cap, gloves, mask, and proper shoewear
• C. Double gloves, gown, and mask
• D. Goggles, mask, gloves, and gown

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When dealing with a patient with active TB and HIV, the nurse should wear goggles, a mask, gloves, and a gown to protect themselves from potential exposure to infectious agents through respiratory secretions or blood. Surgical cap and proper shoewear are not specifically required for this procedure, making option B incorrect. Double gloving is not necessary in this scenario, hence option C is incorrect. Therefore, the correct choice is D as it includes all the essential protective equipment for this situation.

4. When encountering the significant other of a patient with end-stage AIDS crying during her smoke break, what is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take?

• A. Allow her to grieve by herself.
• B. Tell her to go ahead and cry, after all, your husband’s pretty bad off.
• C. Tell her you realize how upset she is, but you don’t want to talk about it now.
• D. Approach her, offering tissues, and encourage her to verbalize her feelings

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Approaching the significant other, offering tissues, and encouraging her to verbalize her feelings is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take. Being left alone during the grief process isolates individuals, and they need an outlet for their feelings. By showing empathy and providing support, the nurse can help the significant other cope with her emotions. Choices A, B, and C are inappropriate because they do not offer support or encourage the expression of feelings, which are crucial in such situations.

5. Which system is primarily affected by tuberculosis (Mycobacterium)?

• A. stomach (GI)
• B. heart (cardiac)
• C. lungs (respiratory)
• D. skin (integumentary)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affects the respiratory system. This aerobic bacillus thrives in highly oxygenated body sites, such as the lungs, growing ends of bones, and the brain. The bacillus is airborne, making the lungs a common site for infection. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as tuberculosis predominantly impacts the respiratory system and rarely involves the stomach, heart, or skin.

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