Nursing Elites

1. The nurse notes that a client has been receiving hydromorphone (Dilaudid) every six hours for four days. What assessment is most important for the nurse to complete?

• A. Auscultate the client's bowel sounds
• B. Observe for edema around the ankles
• C. Measure the client's capillary glucose level
• D. Count the apical and radial pulses simultaneously

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate the client's bowel sounds. Hydromorphone is a potent opioid analgesic that can slow peristalsis and commonly cause constipation. By assessing the client's bowel sounds, the nurse can monitor for any signs of decreased bowel motility or potential constipation. Observing for edema (Choice B) is not directly related to hydromorphone administration. Measuring capillary glucose levels (Choice C) is not the priority in this situation. Counting the apical and radial pulses simultaneously (Choice D) is not specifically indicated in this scenario involving hydromorphone administration.

2. During a home visit, the nurse observed an elderly client with diabetes slip and fall. What action should the nurse take first?

• A. Give the client 4 ounces of orange juice
• B. Call 911 to summon emergency assistance
• C. Check the client for lacerations or fractures
• D. Assess client's blood sugar level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse to take after an elderly client with diabetes slips and falls is to check the client for lacerations or fractures. This is crucial to assess for any immediate physical injuries that may need immediate attention. Giving orange juice or assessing the blood sugar level may be important later but checking for injuries takes precedence to ensure the client's safety and well-being. Calling 911 should be considered if there are severe injuries or if the client is in distress, but checking for lacerations or fractures is the priority at the moment.

3. During orientation, a newly hired nurse demonstrates suctioning of a tracheostomy in a skills class. After the demonstration, the supervising nurse expresses concern that the demonstrated procedure increased the client's risk for which problem?

• A. Infection
• B. Hypoxia
• C. Bleeding
• D. Bronchospasm

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Infection. Improper suctioning techniques can introduce pathogens, increasing the risk of infection. Choice B, Hypoxia, is incorrect as it is more related to inadequate oxygen supply. Choice C, Bleeding, is not typically associated with suctioning a tracheostomy unless done too aggressively. Choice D, Bronchospasm, is not directly linked to suctioning but may occur due to other triggers in patients with sensitive airways.

4. Following a gunshot wound to the abdomen, a young adult male had an emergency bowel resection and received multiple blood products while in the operating room. His current blood pressure is 78/52 mm Hg, he is being mechanically ventilated, and his oxygen saturation is 87%. His laboratory values include hemoglobin 7.0 g/dL, platelets 20,000/mm³, and white blood cells 1,500/mm³. Based on these assessment findings, which intervention should the nurse implement first?

• A. Transfuse packed red blood cells.
• B. Obtain blood and sputum cultures.
• C. Infuse 1000 ml of normal saline.
• D. Titrate oxygen to keep O2 saturation at 90%.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client is exhibiting signs of severe anemia and hypovolemic shock, indicated by low hemoglobin levels and hypotension. The first priority is to address the low hemoglobin by transfusing packed red blood cells to improve oxygen-carrying capacity and perfusion to vital organs. While obtaining blood and sputum cultures is important for identifying potential infections, infusing normal saline can help with volume expansion but does not address the primary issue of severe anemia. Titrating oxygen to maintain an oxygen saturation of 90% is crucial but should follow the administration of packed red blood cells to optimize oxygen delivery.

5. While assisting a male client with muscular dystrophy (MD) to the bathroom, the nurse observes that he is awkward and clumsy. When he expresses his frustration and complains of hip discomfort, which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Place a portable toilet next to the bed.
• B. Assist the client with walking exercises.
• C. Provide pain medication as prescribed.
• D. Apply a heating pad to the affected hip.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Placing a portable toilet next to the bed is the most appropriate intervention in this situation. It reduces the need for the client to walk long distances, thereby preventing falls and reducing discomfort. Choice B, assisting with walking exercises, would not be suitable for a client with muscular dystrophy who is experiencing awkwardness and clumsiness. Choice C, providing pain medication, may address the symptom but does not directly address the issue of reducing the need for walking. Choice D, applying a heating pad, may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of mobility and fall prevention.

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