Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with cirrhosis of the liver. Which laboratory result requires immediate intervention?

• A. Serum albumin of 3.5 g/dL.
• B. Prothrombin time (PT) of 12 seconds.
• C. Hemoglobin of 10 g/dL.
• D. Serum ammonia level of 180 mcg/dL.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, the serum ammonia level of 180 mcg/dL. An elevated serum ammonia level indicates hepatic dysfunction and can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Options A, B, and C are within normal ranges or slightly abnormal values for clients with cirrhosis and do not pose an immediate threat. Serum albumin levels may indicate malnutrition, prothrombin time may reflect liver synthetic function, and hemoglobin levels can be affected by various factors but do not require immediate intervention in this scenario.

2. When documenting assessment data, which statement should the nurse record in the narrative nursing notes?

• A. Client appears anxious.
• B. Client's skin is warm and dry.
• C. S1 murmur auscultated in supine position.
• D. Client is resting quietly.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. When documenting assessment data in the narrative nursing notes, it is essential to include objective findings that are specific, clear, and descriptive. 'S1 murmur auscultated in supine position' provides a precise and objective assessment finding that can aid in accurately documenting the client's condition. Choices A, B, and D are more subjective statements that lack the specificity and clarity required for detailed documentation. 'Client appears anxious' and 'Client is resting quietly' are subjective observations, while 'Client's skin is warm and dry' is an objective finding but may not be as significant or relevant for comprehensive documentation as the auscultated murmur.

3. The nurse must delegate some aspects of a homebound client's care to a home health aide. Which intervention should the nurse delegate to the home health aide?

• A. evaluating a pressure sore
• B. applying a prosthetic device
• C. performing a sterile dressing change
• D. assessing the client's need for an elevated toilet seat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: applying a prosthetic device. Home health aides are trained and authorized to assist with the application and management of prosthetic devices for clients. Evaluating a pressure sore (choice A) requires clinical assessment and judgment typically performed by a licensed healthcare provider such as a nurse. Performing a sterile dressing change (choice C) involves aseptic technique and wound care skills that are usually performed by licensed healthcare professionals. Assessing the client's need for an elevated toilet seat (choice D) involves a level of assessment and decision-making that is beyond the scope of practice for a home health aide.

4. Following an emergency Cesarean delivery, the nurse encourages the new mother to breastfeed her newborn. The client asks why she should breastfeed now. Which information should the nurse provide?

• A. To bond with the baby.
• B. To help the baby latch on better.
• C. To stimulate contraction of the uterus.
• D. To promote milk production.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To stimulate contraction of the uterus.' After delivery, breastfeeding helps in stimulating the release of oxytocin, which triggers the contraction of the uterus. This contraction is crucial to prevent uterine hemorrhage and facilitate the involution process. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. While breastfeeding can indeed help in bonding with the baby and promoting milk production, in the immediate postpartum period after a Cesarean section, the priority is to ensure uterine contraction to prevent complications.

5. A client with a history of peptic ulcer disease is admitted with severe abdominal pain. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Epigastric tenderness.
• B. Bowel sounds are hypoactive.
• C. The client reports sudden, severe abdominal pain.
• D. Bowel sounds are hyperactive.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Sudden, severe abdominal pain can indicate a perforated ulcer, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Epigastric tenderness (choice A) may be expected in a client with peptic ulcer disease but does not necessarily require immediate intervention. Hypoactive bowel sounds (choice B) are concerning but not as urgent as sudden, severe abdominal pain. Hyperactive bowel sounds (choice D) are more indicative of conditions like gastroenteritis rather than a perforated ulcer, making it a less critical finding compared to sudden, severe abdominal pain.

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