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. Mina, who is suspected of an ovarian tumor is scheduled for a pelvic ultrasound. The nurse provides which preprocedure instruction to the client?

• A. Eat a light breakfast only
• B. Maintain an NPO status before the procedure
• C. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for the procedure
• D. Drink six to eight glasses of water without voiding before the test

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A pelvic ultrasound requires the client to have a full bladder because the bladder acts as a window through which pelvic organs, such as the uterus and ovaries, can be visualized more clearly. The full bladder pushes the intestines out of the way and provides a better acoustic pathway for the ultrasound waves. Without this, the pelvic organs might be obscured, and the images would be less accurate.

3. A client has a platelet count of 9800/mm3. What action by the nurse is most appropriate?

• A. Assess the client for calf pain, warmth, and redness.
• B. Instruct the client to call for help to get out of bed.
• C. Obtain cultures as per the facility’s standing policy.
• D. Place the client on protective Isolation Precautions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A platelet count of 9800/mm³ indicates severe thrombocytopenia, placing the client at high risk for bleeding, even with minor trauma or injury. Instructing the client to call for help before getting out of bed ensures they receive assistance with mobility, which reduces the risk of falls or injuries that could lead to serious bleeding. Preventing any activity that could result in trauma is crucial when managing clients with very low platelet counts.

4. Nurse Cecilia is caring for a client who has undergone a vaginal hysterectomy. The nurse avoids which of the following in the care of this client?

• A. Elevating the knee gatch on the bed
• B. Assisting with range-of-motion leg exercises
• C. Removal of antiembolism stockings twice daily
• D. Checking placement of pneumatic compression boots

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Elevating the knee gatch on the bed should be avoided in the care of a client who has undergone a vaginal hysterectomy. This action can inhibit venous return, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis or thrombophlebitis. Choices B, C, and D are appropriate nursing interventions for postoperative care to prevent complications and promote circulation.

5. An oncology patient has just returned from the post-anesthesia care unit after an open hemicolectomy. This patient’s plan of nursing care should prioritize which of the following?

• A. Assess the patient hourly for signs of compartment syndrome.
• B. Assess the patient’s fine motor skills once per shift.
• C. Assess the patient’s wound for dehiscence every 4 hours.
• D. Maintain the patient’s head of bed at 45 degrees or more at all times.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After an open hemicolectomy (surgical removal of part of the colon), monitoring the surgical wound for signs of dehiscence (wound reopening) is a critical nursing priority. Dehiscence is a serious postoperative complication that can occur if the surgical site does not heal properly. Regular wound assessments every 4 hours allow the nurse to identify early signs of complications, such as redness, swelling, increased drainage, or separation of the wound edges. Early detection is key to preventing further complications, such as infection or evisceration (protrusion of abdominal organs through the wound).

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