Nursing Elites

1. When drawing blood from the diabetic patient for a glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c) test, the nurse explains to the woman that the test is used to determine:

• A. The highest glucose level in the past week.
• B. Her insulin levels.
• C. Glucose levels over the past three months.
• D. Her usual fasting glucose level.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c) test reflects the average blood sugar levels over the past three months. It provides a more comprehensive view of the individual's glucose control compared to a single point-in-time measurement like a fasting glucose level or the highest glucose level in the past week. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on a single high glucose level rather than the overall control over a period. Choice B is incorrect as HBA1c is not a test for insulin levels. Choice D is incorrect as the HBA1c test does not reflect a single fasting glucose level but rather an average over a more extended period.

2. A female child, age 2, is brought to the emergency department after ingesting an unknown number of aspirin tablets about 30 minutes earlier. Her father is blaming the mother for neglecting the child while she was cooking. On entering the examination room, the child is crying and clinging to the mother. Which data should the nurse obtain first?

• A. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure
• B. Recent exposure to communicable diseases
• C. Number of immunizations received
• D. Height and weight

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the priority is to assess the child's vital signs first, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. These data will provide critical information on the child's current physiological status and guide further interventions. Option B, recent exposure to communicable diseases, is not the priority in an acute ingestion situation. Option C, number of immunizations received, and option D, height and weight, are important but not as critical as assessing vital signs in this immediate situation.

3. Which of the following statements regarding sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is correct?

• A. Death as a result of SIDS can occur at any time of the day or night.
• B. Certain cases of SIDS are predictable and therefore preventable.
• C. Most cases of SIDS occur in infants younger than 6 months.
• D. SIDS is uncommon in infants older than 1 year of age.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. SIDS can occur at any time of the day or night, although it most commonly occurs during sleep. SIDS is sudden and unpredictable, making it challenging to prevent in all cases. While most cases occur in infants younger than 6 months, it is not limited to this age group. SIDS is not uncommon in infants older than 1 year of age, although less common than in younger infants.

4. What is the MOST effective way to prevent cardiopulmonary arrest in a newborn?

• A. Ensure effective oxygenation and ventilation.
• B. Administer blow-by oxygen as soon as the newborn is born.
• C. Perform an Apgar assessment every 5 minutes.
• D. Suction the newborn's mouth and nose every 3 minutes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most effective way to prevent cardiopulmonary arrest in a newborn is to ensure effective oxygenation and ventilation. This is crucial in maintaining adequate oxygen supply and preventing respiratory distress or failure, which are significant factors leading to cardiopulmonary arrest. Providing appropriate ventilation support and oxygenation can help sustain the newborn's vital functions and reduce the risk of cardiopulmonary compromise.

5. A breastfeeding mother reports breast engorgement. The nurse advises her to:

• A. Increase the frequency of feedings
• B. Apply ice packs to the breasts
• C. Avoid breastfeeding until the pain subsides
• D. Use a breast pump to empty the breasts completely

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Breast engorgement occurs when the breasts become overfilled with milk. By increasing the frequency of feedings, the mother can ensure that her breasts are emptied regularly, helping to relieve the discomfort associated with engorgement. This advice promotes effective milk removal and prevents further accumulation, which can worsen the condition. Applying ice packs may provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue of milk accumulation. Avoiding breastfeeding can lead to further engorgement and potential complications. Using a breast pump to empty the breasts completely may be necessary in some cases, but increasing the frequency of feedings is the initial and most appropriate intervention to manage breast engorgement.

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