Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with rheumatoid arthritis one day after shoulder surgery. What would prompt the nurse to call the provider immediately?

• A. The client refused her pain medication this morning and is doing physical therapy.
• B. The client reports a minor headache and states she takes an over-the-counter pain pill at home.
• C. The client reports intermittent flatus and minor abdominal discomfort.
• D. The client has paresthesia in her fingers and intense increasing pain in her shoulder.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a client with rheumatoid arthritis one day after shoulder surgery, paresthesia in the fingers and intense increasing pain in the shoulder could indicate nerve compression or damage, which are serious post-operative complications. This situation requires immediate attention from the provider to prevent further complications and ensure appropriate management. The other options, such as refusing pain medication, reporting a minor headache, or experiencing minor abdominal discomfort, are important but not as urgent or indicative of potential serious complications as paresthesia in the fingers and intense increasing pain in the shoulder.

2. What complication of fractures is caused by increased pressure which can result in decreased circulation to the area?

• A. Venous thromboembolism
• B. Acute compartment syndrome
• C. Fat embolism syndrome
• D. Hemorrhage

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Acute compartment syndrome is the correct answer. It involves increased pressure within muscles, leading to decreased blood flow and tissue damage. Venous thromboembolism (Choice A) is a condition where a blood clot forms in a vein, usually in the leg. Fat embolism syndrome (Choice C) occurs when fat globules enter the bloodstream and block blood vessels. Hemorrhage (Choice D) refers to bleeding, which can occur with fractures but does not specifically involve increased pressure leading to decreased circulation as in acute compartment syndrome.

3. The client with systemic sclerosis (Scleroderma) is experiencing Raynaud's phenomenon. What assessment finding does the nurse anticipate?

• A. Excessive heartburn
• B. Cyanosis of the lips
• C. Excess wrinkled skin
• D. Cold and purple nailbeds

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

4. Why is traction used?

• A. It allows the bones to realign
• B. It decreases the risk of misalignment
• C. It promotes wound healing
• D. It allows the client to rest longer

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Traction is used to help align the bones properly during the healing process. Choice A is correct because traction assists in allowing the bones to realign correctly, promoting proper healing. Choice B is incorrect as traction does not decrease the risk of misalignment; instead, it helps reduce misalignment by aiding in bone alignment. Choice C is incorrect because while traction indirectly supports wound healing by ensuring proper bone alignment, its primary purpose is not wound healing. Choice D is incorrect as the primary purpose of traction is not to allow the client to rest longer, but rather to aid in bone alignment for optimal healing.

5. The goal for a client with impaired mobility is to prevent atelectasis. What nursing intervention would best help the client meet this goal?

• A. Assist the client to orthopneic position
• B. Offer a protein rich diet
• C. Offer the client a bedpan for toileting
• D. Turn the client every 4 hours

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The orthopneic position helps improve lung expansion, reducing the risk of atelectasis.

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