Nursing Elites

1. Traditionally, nurses have been involved with tertiary cancer prevention. However, an increasing emphasis is being placed on both primary and secondary prevention. What would be an example of primary prevention?

• A. Yearly Pap tests
• B. Testicular self-examination
• C. Teaching patients to wear sunscreen
• D. Screening mammograms

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Primary prevention involves actions taken to reduce the risk of developing cancer by preventing exposure to known risk factors or promoting healthy behaviors. Teaching patients to wear sunscreen is an example of primary prevention because it aims to reduce the risk of skin cancer by minimizing exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Encouraging protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and wearing protective clothing are all steps to prevent skin cancer before it develops.

2. A client in the emergency department reports difficulty breathing. The nurse assesses the client’s appearance as depicted below: What action by the nurse is most important?

• A. Assess blood pressure and pulse.
• B. Attach the client to a pulse oximeter.
• C. Have the client rate his or her pain.
• D. Facilitate urgent radiation therapy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action by the nurse is to assess the client's blood pressure and pulse. Difficulty breathing can be a sign of various conditions, including cardiac issues. Assessing blood pressure and pulse helps in determining the client's hemodynamic status and identifying any cardiovascular compromise. Option B is less crucial as attaching the client to a pulse oximeter may provide oxygen saturation levels but does not directly assess cardiac output. Option C is not the priority in this situation as the client's difficulty breathing is a more urgent concern. Option D is incorrect as urgent radiation therapy is not indicated based on the client's presentation.

3. An older adult patient is undergoing diagnostic testing for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). What assessment finding is certain to be present if the patient has CLL?

• A. Increased numbers of blast cells
• B. Increased lymphocyte levels
• C. Intractable bone pain
• D. Thrombocytopenia with no evidence of bleeding

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An increased lymphocyte count (lymphocytosis) is always present in patients with CLL.

4. Nurse Meredith is instructing a premenopausal woman about breast self-examination. The nurse should tell the client to do her self-examination:

• A. at the end of her menstrual cycle.
• B. on the same day each month.
• C. on the 1st day of the menstrual cycle.
• D. immediately after her menstrual period.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: For premenopausal women, the best time to perform a breast self-examination (BSE) is immediately after their menstrual period ends. This timing is ideal because hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can cause breast tissue to become swollen and tender, making it more difficult to detect any lumps or changes. After the menstrual period, breast tissue is usually softer and less lumpy, allowing for a more accurate assessment of any abnormalities.

5. A patient who is undergoing consolidation therapy for the treatment of leukemia has been experiencing debilitating fatigue. How can the nurse best meet this patients needs for physical activity?

• A. Teach the patient about the risks of immobility and the benefits of exercise.
• B. Assist the patient to a chair during awake times, as tolerated.
• C. Collaborate with the physical therapist to arrange for stair exercises.
• D. Teach the patient to perform deep breathing and coughing exercises.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: For patients undergoing consolidation therapy for leukemia, severe fatigue is a common side effect of treatment due to factors such as anemia, decreased nutritional intake, and the body’s response to chemotherapy. While exercise is beneficial, the patient's fatigue may limit their ability to engage in strenuous activity. Assisting the patient to sit in a chair during awake times is a practical way to encourage some physical activity while respecting their fatigue levels. This intervention helps prevent complications associated with immobility, such as muscle atrophy and venous stasis, without overwhelming the patient. It allows the patient to engage in light activity that is manageable and promotes recovery.

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