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. In a community clinic where a recent case of tuberculosis (TB) has been diagnosed, which client who attended the clinic is at the highest risk for presenting with TB?

• A. a young adult who works as a daycare worker
• B. an adult who works in a corporate office
• C. an adolescent who attends the community high school
• D. an adult with a history of alcoholism and homelessness

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Individuals who are homeless and have a history of alcoholism are at the highest risk for presenting with TB in this scenario. Homeless individuals often live in crowded conditions with poor ventilation, increasing the likelihood of TB transmission. Additionally, alcoholism can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to developing TB. The other options, such as a daycare worker, an office worker, or a high school student, do not inherently carry the same level of risk factors for TB transmission as being homeless with a history of alcoholism.

3. The nurse is documenting the medical history of a young adult who was recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The client smokes 2 packs of cigarettes a day, and his father died of a heart attack at the age of 45. Which annual screening is most important for the nurse to include?

• A. peripheral neuropathy
• B. renal insufficiency
• C. retinopathy
• D. hyperlipidemia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most important annual screening for the nurse to include is hyperlipidemia. Given the client's smoking history, family history of premature heart disease, and the increased risk of cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes, screening for hyperlipidemia is crucial. This screening is essential in assessing the client's risk of developing cardiovascular disease, which is a significant concern in this case. Peripheral neuropathy (choice A) is a common long-term complication of diabetes but may not be the most immediate concern in this scenario. Renal insufficiency (choice B) is also a complication of diabetes, but given the client's high cardiovascular risk, hyperlipidemia screening takes priority. Retinopathy (choice C) is an important complication of diabetes affecting the eyes, but in this case, focusing on cardiovascular risk assessment through hyperlipidemia screening is more critical.

4. A community health nurse is addressing the issue of domestic violence in the community. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

• A. establishing a support group for survivors of domestic violence
• B. developing educational materials on recognizing signs of abuse
• C. partnering with local law enforcement to increase awareness
• D. conducting a community needs assessment to identify resources

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Conducting a community needs assessment is the most appropriate initial intervention when addressing domestic violence in the community. This step helps the nurse identify existing resources, gaps, and specific needs of the community related to domestic violence. By understanding the community's needs through a needs assessment, the nurse can tailor subsequent interventions effectively. Option A, establishing a support group, may be beneficial later but should not be the first step. Developing educational materials (Option B) and partnering with law enforcement (Option C) are important strategies; however, without understanding the community's specific needs through a needs assessment, the interventions may not be as targeted or effective.

5. An older client requiring total care resides with a family consisting of two daughters who take shifts providing care around-the-clock. During a home visit, the daughters ask the nurse about resources that are available for client care while they attend a scheduled family reunion. Which information is best for the nurse to provide?

• A. propose the family seek assistance for care in the area of the reunion's location
• B. tell the caregivers to consider hiring a private duty nurse during the time away
• C. advise to have a case management evaluation of the client's home environment
• D. suggest social services be contacted to find a respite care facility for the client

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Respite care provides temporary relief for primary caregivers, allowing them to attend the reunion while ensuring the client is cared for.

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