Nursing Elites

1. When percussing over the abdomen of an obese patient, the nurse is unable to identify any changes in sound. What would the nurse do next?

• A. Ask the patient to take deep breaths to relax the abdominal musculature.
• B. Consider this finding as normal and proceed with the abdominal assessment.
• C. Increase the amount of strength used when attempting to percuss over the abdomen.
• D. Decrease the amount of strength used when attempting to percuss over the abdomen.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When percussing an obese patient's abdomen, the thickness of their body wall can affect the sound produced. A stronger percussion stroke is needed for obese or very muscular patients. The force of the blow determines the loudness of the note. Asking the patient to take deep breaths, considering the finding as normal, or decreasing the strength used are not appropriate actions in this scenario.

2. In which situation would the nurse use bimanual palpation technique?

• A. Palpating the thorax of an infant
• B. Palpating the kidneys and uterus
• C. Assessing pulsations and vibrations
• D. Assessing the presence of tenderness and pain

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bimanual palpation involves using both hands to envelop or capture specific body parts or organs like the kidneys, uterus, or adnexa. This technique is particularly useful for assessing the size, shape, consistency, and mobility of deep organs like the kidneys and uterus. Palpating the thorax of an infant (Choice A) is usually done with a different technique like gentle, single-handed palpation. Assessing pulsations and vibrations (Choice C) and assessing tenderness and pain (Choice D) typically do not require the use of bimanual palpation, making Choices A, C, and D incorrect.

3. What term is used to refer to generalized wasting of body tissues and malnutrition?

• A. Entropion
• B. Confabulation
• C. Induration
• D. Cachexia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cachexia is the correct term used to describe the generalized wasting of body tissues, ill health, and malnutrition associated with some chronic diseases. It involves a loss of fat tissue to protect the bones and joints. Clients with cachexia are at risk of pressure ulcers and other complications due to malnutrition and poor health. Entropion refers to an eyelid condition, confabulation is a memory disturbance, and induration is the abnormal hardening of a part of the body.

4. Who is most likely to arrange the discharge of a patient to their own home, a nursing home, or an assisted living facility?

• A. A physical therapist
• B. A speech therapist
• C. A social worker
• D. An occupational therapist

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Social workers play a crucial role in arranging patient discharges to suitable facilities. They collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure that patients are transitioned to the most appropriate setting post-hospitalization. Social workers focus on the holistic needs of patients, including their social and emotional well-being, to facilitate a smooth continuum of care. Choices A, B, and D do not typically have the primary responsibility for arranging patient discharges to various facilities.

5. A client is being assisted to lie in the Sims' position. In what position does the nurse arrange the client?

• A. The client lies on his side with the upper leg flexed
• B. The client lies on his back with his head lower than his feet
• C. The client lies on his abdomen with a pillow supporting his head
• D. The client is sitting up at a 90-degree angle

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The Sims' position is a side-lying position used for examinations or comfort. In the Sims' position, the client lies on their side with the upper leg flexed. The abdomen is slightly downward, and the lower arm is positioned behind the body. A pillow can be used to support the leg. Choice B is incorrect as it describes a position with the client lying on their back with the head lower than the feet. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a prone position, not the Sims' position. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a sitting position, not the Sims' position.

Similar Questions