Nursing Elites

1. The nurse receives an assignment of three clients. Which of the following should the nurse consider as the highest priority when determining which client to assess first?

• A. the client who most recently rang their call bell
• B. the client who has been waiting the longest for their call bell to be answered
• C. the client who is in the most pain
• D. the client who may have a risk for an airway obstruction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should prioritize assessing a client with a potential airway obstruction first based on the ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation) principle. Maintaining a clear airway is crucial for oxygenation and ventilation, making it the highest priority. Choices A and B focus on call bells and waiting times, which are important but not life-threatening in comparison to airway concerns. While pain management is essential, it takes precedence after addressing immediate life-threatening issues like airway compromise.

2. Who is responsible for obtaining the signature from the client on the informed consent?

• A. the staff nurse
• B. the charge nurse
• C. the LPN
• D. the physician

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the physician. It is the physician's responsibility to ensure that the client provides informed consent by obtaining their signature. While nurses play a crucial role in the healthcare team, their responsibility lies in verifying that the consent process has been completed correctly and advocating for the client. The staff nurse, charge nurse, and LPN do not have the authority to obtain the client's signature on the informed consent form, as this is within the scope of practice of the physician.

3. An advance directive is written and notarized according to law in the state of Colorado. This document is legal and binding:

• A. internationally.
• B. in the state of Colorado only.
• C. in the continental United States.
• D. in the county of origination only.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'in the state of Colorado only.' Advance directive protocols and documents are specific to each state's laws and regulations. Choice A is incorrect as advance directives are not universally recognized internationally. Choice C is incorrect as the legal validity of an advance directive is limited to the state in which it was created. Choice D is incorrect as the legal reach of an advance directive typically extends throughout the state of origination, not just the county.

4. Where do the vast majority of deaths resulting from unintentional poisoning occur?

• A. Infants
• B. Toddlers
• C. Teens
• D. Adults

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Toddlers.' Toddlers are at the highest risk of unintentional poisoning due to their natural curiosity, explorative behavior, and lack of awareness of potential dangers. Infants are typically closely monitored, teens are more aware of risks, and adults generally have better judgment and understanding of hazardous substances, making them less susceptible to unintentional poisoning. Therefore, toddlers, being inquisitive and unaware of risks, are the most vulnerable group in terms of unintentional poisoning incidents.

5. Following an automobile accident that caused a head injury to an adult client, the nurse observes that the client sleeps for long periods of time. The nurse determines that the client has experienced injury to the:

• A. hypothalamus.
• B. thalamus.
• C. cortex.
• D. medulla.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The hypothalamus is responsible for regulating sleep patterns among other functions. Injury to the hypothalamus can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, leading to excessive sleepiness or changes in sleep patterns. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not primarily control sleep regulation. The thalamus is involved in relaying sensory information, the cortex is responsible for higher brain functions, and the medulla controls vital functions such as heartbeat and breathing.

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