Nursing Elites

1. What are the key signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) that a nurse should monitor for?

• A. Monitor for changes in level of consciousness
• B. Check for pupil dilation
• C. Assess for bradycardia
• D. Monitor for vomiting

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Monitor for changes in the level of consciousness.' Key signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) include changes in the level of consciousness and pupil dilation. Assessing for bradycardia and monitoring for vomiting are not typically considered primary signs of increased ICP. While bradycardia and vomiting can occur with increased ICP, they are not as specific or sensitive as changes in consciousness and pupil dilation.

2. After sustaining a closed head injury and numerous lacerations and abrasions to the face and neck, a five-year-old child is admitted to the emergency room. The client is unconscious and has minimal response to noxious stimuli. Which of the following assessments, if observed by the nurse three hours after admission, should be reported to the physician?

• A. The client has slight edema of the eyelids
• B. There is clear fluid draining from the client's right ear
• C. There is some bleeding from the child's lacerations
• D. The client withdraws in response to painful stimuli

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Clear fluid draining from the ear can indicate cerebrospinal fluid leakage, which is a serious concern after a head injury. This leakage can signify a skull fracture or damage to the meninges, potentially leading to infection. Therefore, it should be reported immediately for further evaluation and management. Choices A, C, and D are typical findings after head trauma and are not as urgent as the presence of clear fluid draining from the ear.

3. A client with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Apply lotion between the toes
• B. Wear shoes that fit properly
• C. Walk barefoot at home
• D. Apply ice to the feet daily

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes that fit properly.' In peripheral arterial disease (PAD), it is crucial to wear shoes that fit well to prevent foot injuries. Choice A is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can increase the risk of infection. Choice C is incorrect since walking barefoot at home can lead to injuries, especially in individuals with PAD. Choice D is incorrect as applying ice to the feet daily can further reduce blood flow to the extremities, worsening the condition in PAD.

4. Which of the following is a realistic short-term goal to be accomplished in 2 to 3 days for a client with delirium?

• A. Explain the experience of having delirium
• B. Resume a normal sleep-wake cycle
• C. Regain orientation to time and place
• D. Establish normal bowel and bladder function

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Regaining orientation to time and place is a realistic short-term goal for clients with delirium. It helps the individual become aware of their surroundings and current situation, aiding in reducing confusion and disorientation. Choice A is incorrect because the goal is focused on the client's understanding, not on explaining the experience of delirium. Choice B, resuming a normal sleep-wake cycle, may take longer than 2 to 3 days to achieve and is not directly related to regaining orientation. Choice D, establishing normal bowel and bladder function, is important but may not be a short-term goal specifically related to delirium.

5. A client receiving IV fluids has developed phlebitis. What action should the nurse take next after removing the IV catheter?

• A. Place a warm compress over the IV site
• B. Record the findings in the client's chart
• C. Notify the client's primary care provider
• D. Insert a new IV catheter

Correct answer: A

Rationale: After removing an IV catheter due to phlebitis, the next step is to apply a warm compress over the IV site. This helps reduce inflammation and discomfort for the client. Recording the findings in the client's chart is important for documentation purposes but not the immediate next step. Notifying the client's primary care provider may be necessary depending on the severity of the phlebitis, but it is not the initial action. Inserting a new IV catheter is not appropriate until the phlebitis has resolved.

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