Nursing Elites

1. The patient experienced a surgical procedure, and Betadine was utilized as the surgical prep. Two days postoperatively, the nurse's assessment indicates that the incision is red and has a small amount of purulent drainage. The patient reports tenderness at the incision site. The patient's temperature is 100.5°F, and the WBC is 10,500/mm³. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Reevaluate the temperature and white blood cell count in 4 hours.
• B. Check which solution was used for skin preparation in surgery.
• C. Plan to change the surgical dressing during the shift.
• D. Utilize SBAR to notify the primary health care provider.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The patient is showing signs of a possible surgical site infection, including redness, purulent drainage, tenderness, elevated temperature, and increased white blood cell count. These symptoms suggest the need for immediate action to address a potential complication. Utilizing SBAR to notify the primary health care provider is crucial as it allows for effective communication of the patient's condition and the need for further assessment and intervention. Reevaluating the temperature and white blood cell count later, checking the solution used for skin preparation, or planning to change the dressing do not address the urgent need for intervention and communication with the healthcare provider.

2. The nurse is caring for a group of medical-surgical patients. A fire has been reported in an adjacent wing of the hospital. What should the nurse do to ensure the patients' safety?

• A. Wait until the fire department arrives before taking action.
• B. Close all doors.
• C. Identify evacuation routes.
• D. Move bedridden patients in their beds.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a fire emergency, it is crucial to close all doors to contain smoke and fire, helping to protect the patients. This action can prevent the spread of fire and smoke to the area where patients are located. Identifying evacuation routes is also important for a timely and orderly evacuation if necessary. Waiting for the fire department to arrive before taking action (Choice A) can waste valuable time and put patients at risk. Moving bedridden patients in their beds (Choice D) can be dangerous during a fire and should be avoided as it can expose patients and staff to more risks.

3. When preparing to give a report during a shift change, what information is most critical to communicate?

• A. Include a full family medical history.
• B. Focus on changes in the patient's condition.
• C. Summarize the patient's treatment plan.
• D. Provide updates on the patient's lab results.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a shift change report, the most critical information to communicate is focusing on changes in the patient's condition. This helps ensure that all healthcare providers are aware of any significant developments or deterioration in the patient's health status, allowing for timely and appropriate interventions. Choices A, C, and D are not as crucial during a shift report. While a full family medical history and treatment plan are important aspects of patient care, they are not the primary focus during a shift change report. Providing updates on lab results may be important but may not be as time-sensitive or immediately impactful as changes in the patient's condition.

4. A staff nurse is challenging a shift assignment with the charge nurse. Which of the following statements made by the charge nurse is an example of smoothing as a strategy to resolve conflict?

• A. If you accept this assignment today, I will let you choose your assignment tomorrow
• B. If you don't agree with the assignment, I will have to report your decision to the nursing supervisor
• C. Let's just focus on giving our client medications on time
• D. You have a lot of experience, so I'm sure you're capable of these tasks

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it exemplifies smoothing as a conflict resolution strategy. Smoothing involves downplaying conflict and reassuring the individual to reduce tension. In this statement, the charge nurse acknowledges the staff nurse's experience and capability to perform the assigned tasks, which aims to reduce conflict and promote a positive outlook. Choices A, B, and C do not reflect smoothing. Choice A involves a conditional agreement, choice B introduces a threat of reporting, and choice C shifts the focus away from the conflict.

5. A nurse discovers a discrepancy in the narcotics log. What is the appropriate next step?

• A. Correct the log and notify the pharmacy.
• B. Report the discrepancy to the nurse manager.
• C. Re-administer the narcotic.
• D. Dispose of the narcotic and note the discrepancy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a nurse discovers a discrepancy in the narcotics log, the appropriate next step is to report the discrepancy to the nurse manager. This is important to ensure that the issue is properly investigated and addressed. Choice A is incorrect because simply correcting the log and notifying the pharmacy may not address the root cause of the discrepancy. Choice C is incorrect as re-administering the narcotic without clarification could lead to potential harm or legal issues. Choice D is incorrect as disposing of the narcotic without following proper protocols and documentation could result in further complications.

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