Nursing Elites

1. What are the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism?

• A. Sudden shortness of breath
• B. Chest pain
• C. Cough with blood
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A pulmonary embolism can manifest with sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing up blood. These symptoms are classic presentations of a pulmonary embolism due to the blockage of blood flow to the lungs. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above.' Each symptom alone can be seen in various other conditions, but when occurring together, they strongly suggest a pulmonary embolism. Sudden shortness of breath is due to decreased oxygenation, chest pain can result from the strain on the heart, and coughing with blood may indicate damage to the lung tissue. Choosing any single symptom would not encompass the full range of presentations seen in a pulmonary embolism.

2. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize for a client with dementia who is at risk of falls?

• A. Use restraints to prevent the client from leaving the bed
• B. Use a bed exit alarm system to notify staff when the client attempts to leave the bed
• C. Encourage frequent ambulation with assistance
• D. Raise all four side rails to prevent falls

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Using a bed exit alarm system is a non-restrictive intervention that alerts staff when the client tries to leave the bed, promoting safety and preventing falls. Choice A is incorrect because using restraints can have adverse effects and should be avoided whenever possible. Choice C is not the priority for a client at risk of falls due to dementia as it may increase the risk of falls without proper supervision. Choice D is also not recommended as raising all four side rails can lead to restraint and should be used cautiously, if at all. Therefore, the best option is to use a bed exit alarm system to ensure the client's safety while allowing some freedom of movement.

3. A nurse is observing an assistive personnel (AP) apply antiembolic stockings for a client. Which of the following actions by the AP demonstrates an understanding of how to perform this skill?

• A. Apply the stocking while the client is seated
• B. Apply the stocking before the client gets out of bed
• C. Use lotion under the stocking to ease application
• D. Bunch the stocking around the heel before applying

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Applying antiembolic stockings before the client gets out of bed is crucial as it helps prevent venous stasis and clot formation. Choice A is incorrect because stockings should be applied before the client gets out of bed. Choice C is incorrect as using lotion under the stocking can cause the stocking to slip. Choice D is incorrect because the stocking should be smooth and not bunched to prevent pressure points.

4. A client with a serum albumin level of 3 g/dL has a pressure ulcer. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Monitor the client's fluid and electrolyte balance
• B. Consult a dietitian to improve the client's nutritional status
• C. Administer a protein supplement
• D. Administer an anti-inflammatory medication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct first action for a client with a serum albumin level of 3 g/dL and a pressure ulcer is to consult a dietitian to improve the client's nutritional status. Adequate nutrition is essential for wound healing. Monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance is important but not the first priority in this situation. Administering a protein supplement can be considered after dietary evaluation. Administering an anti-inflammatory medication is not the primary intervention for addressing a pressure ulcer related to low albumin levels.

5. What should be done to minimize the risk of injury for a client with dementia?

• A. Ensure the client has consistent caregivers
• B. Dim the lights in the client's room
• C. Allow the client to sleep with the bedrails raised
• D. Encourage family members to stay with the client

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to ensure the client has consistent caregivers. This helps reduce confusion and stress for clients with dementia by providing familiarity and routine. Dimming the lights in the client's room (Choice B) may not directly address the risk of injury. Allowing the client to sleep with the bedrails raised (Choice C) can pose a risk if not properly monitored. Encouraging family members to stay with the client (Choice D) may not always be feasible and may not provide the necessary professional support and consistency that consistent caregivers can offer.

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