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. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer the initial dose of ceftriaxone to a client who has endometritis. Which of the following statements by the client should cause the healthcare professional to hold the medication and consult the provider?

• A. I have a severe allergy to amoxicillin
• B. I get sick when I take diuretics
• C. I have a history of hearing problems
• D. I take prednisone for my asthma

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A severe allergy to amoxicillin could indicate a potential cross-reactivity with ceftriaxone, so the medication should be held. Cross-reactivity between penicillins (like amoxicillin) and cephalosporins (like ceftriaxone) is a known concern due to their similar chemical structures. Choices B, C, and D do not directly contraindicate the administration of ceftriaxone for endometritis.

3. What is the most important action for the nurse to take after finding a patient on the floor who reports, 'I fell out of bed'?

• A. Reassess the patient.
• B. Complete an incident report.
• C. Notify the health care provider.
• D. Take no action, as no harm has occurred.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most important action for the nurse to take after finding a patient on the floor who reports falling out of bed is to notify the health care provider. This is crucial to ensure that the incident is reported, documented, and that the patient receives necessary follow-up care. Reassessing the patient is important, but notifying the healthcare provider takes precedence to address any potential injuries or issues that may have resulted from the fall. Completing an incident report is necessary, but immediate notification to the healthcare provider is more critical in this situation. Doing nothing is not an appropriate response, as the patient's safety and well-being must be the top priority.

4. A nurse is caring for an older adult client. The nurse informs the client that straining while defecating can cause which of the following?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Gastric ulcer
• C. Dilated pupils
• D. Dysrhythmias

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Dysrhythmias. Straining while defecating can lead to dysrhythmias due to increased vagal stimulation. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Straining while defecating is not typically associated with causing diarrhea, gastric ulcers, or dilated pupils.

5. A nurse is assessing a client who has heart failure and is taking digoxin. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following manifestations as an indication of digoxin toxicity to report to the provider?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Vomiting
• C. Ringing in ears
• D. Dizziness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vomiting. Vomiting is a common sign of digoxin toxicity and should be reported to the healthcare provider. Diarrhea (Choice A) is a more common side effect of digoxin but not typically associated with toxicity. Ringing in the ears (Choice C) is a potential sign of toxicity; however, vomiting is a more immediate concern. Dizziness (Choice D) can occur with digoxin use but is not a specific indicator of toxicity.

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