Nursing Elites

1. The client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being taught pursed-lip breathing by the nurse. What is the purpose of this technique?

• A. To promote oxygenation by removing secretions.
• B. To reduce the amount of air trapped in the lungs.
• C. To increase the amount of carbon dioxide exhaled.
• D. To slow the respiratory rate and improve air exchange.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Pursed-lip breathing is used to increase the amount of carbon dioxide exhaled (C) in clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By doing so, it helps prevent air trapping and enhances gas exchange, ultimately improving respiratory efficiency. While removing secretions (A) and reducing air trapping (B) can be associated benefits to some extent, the primary goal of pursed-lip breathing is to optimize carbon dioxide elimination and enhance breathing mechanics. Slowing the respiratory rate (D) is not the primary purpose of pursed-lip breathing.

2. Earlier this morning, an elderly Hispanic female was discharged to a LTC facility. The family members are now gathered in the hallway outside her room. What is the best action?

• A. Ask the family to wait in the cafeteria while the next of kin makes the necessary arrangements
• B. Provide space and privacy for the family to share their concerns about the client’s discharge
• C. Ask the social worker to encourage the family to clear the hallway
• D. Explain to the family the client’s need for privacy so that she can make independent decisions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this situation, providing space and privacy for the family allows them to openly discuss their concerns regarding the client’s discharge. It respects the family's need for support, communication, and involvement in the decision-making process, ultimately fostering a more effective and compassionate care environment.

3. A client with rheumatoid arthritis is experiencing chronic pain in both hands and wrists. Which information about the client is most important for the nurse to obtain when planning care?

• A. Amount of support provided by family members
• B. Measurement of pain using a scale of 0 to 10
• C. The ability to perform ADLs
• D. Nonverbal behaviors exhibited when pain occurs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Assessing the client's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) is crucial in planning care for someone with chronic pain. Understanding the client's functional status helps the nurse tailor interventions to promote independence and enhance quality of life. It provides valuable insight into the impact of pain on daily activities and guides the development of a comprehensive care plan to address the client's specific needs. While family support, pain measurement, and nonverbal behaviors are important aspects to consider in caring for a client with chronic pain, the ability to perform ADLs directly reflects the client's independence and quality of life, making it the most crucial information to obtain.

4. A CVA (stroke) patient goes into respiratory distress and is placed on a ventilator. The client’s daughter arrives with a durable power of attorney and a living will that indicates there should be no extraordinary life-saving measures. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Refer to the risk manager
• B. Notify the healthcare provider
• C. Discontinue the ventilator
• D. Review the medical record

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this situation, the nurse should notify the healthcare provider. The healthcare provider needs to be informed to review the legal documents provided by the patient's daughter, such as the durable power of attorney and living will, which specify the patient's wishes regarding life-saving measures. The healthcare provider will be responsible for making the appropriate decision based on the legal documents and the patient's current condition. Referring to the risk manager (choice A) is not necessary as the issue at hand pertains to the patient's medical care. Discontinuing the ventilator (choice C) without healthcare provider input could go against the patient's wishes and legal documents. Reviewing the medical record (choice D) may not provide immediate guidance on the current situation and the patient's preferences regarding life-saving measures.

5. A Native American individual presents to the clinic with complaints of frequent abdominal cramping and nausea. They state that they have chronic constipation and have not had a bowel movement in five days, despite trying several home remedies. Which intervention is most important for the healthcare provider to implement?

• A. Evaluate the stool samples for the presence of blood
• B. Assess for the presence of an impaction
• C. Determine which home remedies were used
• D. Obtain a list of prescribed medications

Correct answer: C

Rationale: It is crucial to determine which home remedies the individual has tried to avoid interactions with prescribed treatments and consider cultural practices that may influence their healthcare choices. Understanding the home remedies used can provide insights into the individual's health beliefs, preferences, and potential interactions with conventional treatments, allowing for a more holistic approach to their care.

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