Nursing Elites

1. The surgical mask the perioperative nurse is wearing becomes moist. Which action will the perioperative nurse take next?

• A. Do not change the mask if the nurse is comfortable.
• B. Change the mask when relieved by the next shift.
• C. Apply a new mask.
• D. Reapply the mask after it air-dries.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a surgical mask becomes moist, it loses its effectiveness as a barrier against microorganisms. Therefore, the perioperative nurse should apply a new mask. Choice A is incorrect because a moist mask should not be continued to be worn even if the nurse is comfortable. Choice B is not the best course of action as the mask should be changed immediately when it becomes moist. Choice D is also incorrect as waiting for the mask to air-dry is not recommended due to the loss of barrier effectiveness.

2. A patient reflects a correct understanding about the relationship between the gate control theory of pain and the use of meditation to relieve pain?

• A. Meditation alters the chemical composition of pain neuroregulators, which closes the gate.
• B. Meditation stops the occurrence of pain stimuli.
• C. Meditation controls pain by blocking pain impulses from coming through the gate.
• D. Meditation will help me sleep through the pain because it opens the gate.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. According to the gate control theory, meditation helps relieve pain by blocking pain impulses from coming through the gate in the central nervous system. Choice A is incorrect as meditation does not directly alter the chemical composition of pain neuroregulators. Choice B is incorrect because meditation does not stop the occurrence of pain stimuli. Choice D is incorrect as meditation does not open the gate but rather closes it to block pain impulses.

3. What are the common side effects of opioid analgesics, and how should they be managed?

• A. Drowsiness and dizziness, ensuring safety precautions
• B. Respiratory depression, ensuring adequate ventilation
• C. Constipation and nausea, managed with stool softeners
• D. Nausea and vomiting, managing with antiemetics

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Common side effects of opioid analgesics include drowsiness and dizziness. These side effects can impair a person's ability to operate machinery or drive safely. To manage these side effects, it is essential to advise patients to avoid activities that require alertness until they know how the medication affects them. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because respiratory depression, constipation, and nausea are also common side effects of opioids, but they are not the primary side effects being asked for in this question.

4. A nurse is talking with a client who is about to start using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to manage chronic pain. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as an indication that the client needs further teaching?

• A. I wish I didn't have to attach the electrodes to my skin
• B. I will need to shave the hair off the skin where I place the electrodes
• C. I hope I don't have to take as many pain pills
• D. It's unfortunate that I have to be in the hospital for this treatment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: TENS is a portable treatment that can be done at home, so the client should not expect to remain in the hospital for this treatment.

5. A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being cared for by a nurse. What is the most appropriate action to improve the patient's oxygenation?

• A. Encourage the patient to use incentive spirometry.
• B. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula as prescribed.
• C. Assist the patient with coughing and deep breathing exercises.
• D. Position the patient in a high Fowler's position.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering oxygen via nasal cannula as prescribed is the most appropriate action to improve the patient's oxygenation in COPD. Oxygen therapy helps maintain adequate oxygen levels in the blood, which is crucial for managing COPD. Encouraging the use of incentive spirometry, assisting with coughing and deep breathing exercises, and positioning the patient in high Fowler's position are all beneficial interventions, but administering oxygen is the priority for immediate oxygenation support in COPD.

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