Nursing Elites

1. The nurse wishes to decrease a client's use of denial and increase the client's expression of feelings. To do this, the nurse should:

• A. tell the client to stop using the defense mechanism of denial.
• B. positively reinforce each expression of feelings.
• C. instruct the client to express feelings.
• D. challenge the client each time denial is used.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the scenario provided, the nurse aims to reduce the client's use of denial and encourage the expression of feelings. Positive reinforcement for each expression of feelings is an effective approach to achieve this goal. By positively reinforcing the client's expression of feelings, the nurse encourages the desired behavior, making it more likely for the client to continue sharing their emotions. This approach creates a supportive and accepting environment for the client. In contrast, telling the client to stop using denial (Choice A) may create resistance and inhibit communication by putting pressure on the client. Instructing the client to express feelings (Choice C) is less effective as it lacks the element of reinforcement that is essential for behavior modification. Challenging the client each time denial is used (Choice D) may lead to defensiveness and hinder the therapeutic relationship, making it a less favorable option.

2. The client with schizophrenia has become disruptive and requires seclusion. Which staff member can institute seclusion?

• A. The security guard
• B. The registered nurse
• C. The licensed practical nurse
• D. The nursing assistant

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The registered nurse is the correct choice to institute seclusion for a client with schizophrenia. In healthcare settings, only a registered nurse or a physician can legally initiate seclusion. The security guard, licensed practical nurse, and nursing assistant do not have the authority to carry out this action. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect.

3. What should the charge nurse do after overhearing the patient care assistant speaking harshly to the client with dementia?

• A. Change the patient care assistant's assignment
• B. Explore the interaction with the patient care assistant
• C. Discuss the matter with the client's family
• D. Initiate a group session with the patient care assistant

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best action for the charge nurse to take is to explore the interaction with the patient care assistant. This step allows for clarification of the situation and direct addressing of the issue. Changing the patient care assistant's assignment (choice A) might be necessary, but understanding the situation should come first. Discussing the matter with the client's family (choice C) as an initial step could escalate the situation. Initiating a group session with the patient care assistant (choice D) could be considered later as a preventive measure to avoid similar incidents in the future.

4. The client returns to the unit from surgery with a blood pressure of 90/50, pulse 132, respirations 30. Which action by the nurse should receive priority?

• A. Continue monitoring the vital signs
• B. Contact the physician
• C. Ask the client how they feel
• D. Ask the LPN to continue post-op care

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority action for the nurse is to contact the physician immediately due to the client's abnormal vital signs. A blood pressure of 90/50, pulse of 132, and respirations of 30 indicate instability and require prompt medical attention. Continuing to monitor vital signs, as in choice A, may lead to a delay in necessary interventions. Asking the client how they feel, as in choice C, provides subjective data and does not address the urgent need for medical intervention. Involving the LPN, as in choice D, is not appropriate in this critical situation where the client's condition is unstable and requires immediate physician assessment and intervention.

5. A woman asks, "How much alcohol can I safely drink while pregnant?"? The nurse's best response is:

• A. "The amount of alcohol that is safe during pregnancy is unknown."?
• B. "Consuming one or two beers or glasses of wine a day is considered safe for a healthy pregnant woman."?
• C. "Drinking three or more drinks on any given occasion is the only harmful type of drinking during pregnancy."?
• D. "You can have a drink to help you relax and get to sleep at night."?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is, "The amount of alcohol that is safe during pregnancy is unknown."? This response is appropriate because there is no known safe amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Consuming any amount of alcohol during pregnancy can pose risks to the developing fetus, leading to conditions like fetal alcohol syndrome, which is a combination of mental and physical abnormalities in infants. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B suggests that consuming one or two drinks a day is safe during pregnancy, which is not supported by current medical guidelines. Choice C incorrectly states that only drinking three or more drinks on any given occasion is harmful, when in reality, any amount of alcohol can be harmful to the fetus. Choice D is inappropriate as it suggests that having a drink to relax and sleep is acceptable during pregnancy, which is not the case.

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