Nursing Elites

1. When providing oral care to an unconscious patient, what action should the nurse take to protect the patient from injury?

• A. Moisten the mouth using lemon-glycerin sponges.
• B. Hold the patient's mouth open with gloved fingers.
• C. Use foam swabs to help remove plaque.
• D. Suction the oral cavity.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for an unconscious patient, it is crucial to prevent choking and aspiration. Suctioning the oral cavity helps in removing secretions and preventing potential harm. Moisten the mouth using lemon-glycerin sponges may not effectively clear secretions. Holding the patient's mouth open with gloved fingers can cause discomfort and potential harm. Using foam swabs to remove plaque may not address the immediate risk of aspiration.

2. When transferring a postoperative client from the PACU following abdominal surgery, what action should the nurse take to move the client from the stretcher to the bed?

• A. Lock the wheels on both the bed and stretcher
• B. Adjust the bed to a low position
• C. Ask the client to assist in the transfer
• D. Use a transfer sheet without locking the wheels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Locking the wheels on both the bed and stretcher is crucial for ensuring stability during the transfer process. This action is essential to prevent unexpected movement of the bed or stretcher, reducing the risk of injury to the client and facilitating a safe transfer. Adjusting the bed to a low position is important for the client's comfort and safety but does not directly address the immediate need for stability during the transfer. Asking the client to assist in the transfer may not be feasible immediately postoperatively, depending on their condition and the type of surgery they underwent. Using a transfer sheet without locking the wheels can introduce potential safety hazards as the bed or stretcher may move during the transfer, undermining the stability needed for a safe and effective transfer.

3. When caring for an older adult client who becomes agitated when asked to remove dentures before surgery, which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. "What worries you about being without your teeth?"
• B. "You need to follow the preoperative instructions and remove your dentures."
• C. "It's important to remove dentures to ensure proper fitting of the mask during anesthesia."
• D. "I will explain why dentures need to be removed before surgery."

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is to ask the client about their concerns regarding being without their teeth. This approach helps address the client's anxiety and provides insight into the reason for their agitation. Choice B is authoritarian and does not address the client's emotional needs. Choice C focuses on the technical aspect of surgery and does not address the client's emotional state. Choice D implies a one-way communication without addressing the client's feelings or concerns.

4. A client is 24 hours postoperative following an inguinal hernia repair. The client is tolerating clear liquids well, has active bowel sounds, and is expressing a desire for “real food.” The nurse tells the client, “I will call the surgeon and ask for a change in diet.” The surgeon hears the nurse’s report and prescribes a full liquid diet. The nurse used which of the following levels of critical thinking?

• A. Basic
• B. Commitment
• C. Complex
• D. Integrity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse demonstrated complex critical thinking by assessing the client's condition, evaluating the need for a change, and making a recommendation to the surgeon. In this scenario, the nurse went beyond simply following instructions or making routine decisions (basic critical thinking). There was a depth of analysis and decision-making involved, showing a higher level of critical thinking than basic or commitment levels. Integrity is about adherence to ethical principles and honesty, not directly related to the critical thinking process.

5. The client is receiving discharge instructions for warfarin (Coumadin). Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will avoid eating foods high in vitamin K.
• B. I will have my blood tested regularly to monitor my INR levels.
• C. I will take the medication at the same time every day.
• D. I will use a soft toothbrush to prevent bleeding gums.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Clients taking warfarin need to be consistent with their vitamin K intake to maintain a balance in blood clotting. Avoiding foods high in vitamin K is essential as they can interfere with the medication's effectiveness. Choices B, C, and D are all correct statements regarding warfarin therapy. Regular blood testing to monitor INR levels ensures the medication is working effectively, taking the medication at the same time daily maintains a consistent level in the bloodstream, and using a soft toothbrush helps prevent gum bleeding due to warfarin's anticoagulant effects.

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