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. A nurse is receiving change-of-shift report for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to assess first?

• A. A client who has sinus arrhythmia and is receiving cardiac monitoring.
• B. A client who has diabetes mellitus and a hemoglobin A1C of 6.8%.
• C. A client who has epidural analgesia and weakness in the lower extremities.
• D. A client who has a hip fracture and a new onset of tachypnea.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. New onset of tachypnea indicates a potential respiratory complication that requires immediate attention. Assessing the client with a hip fracture and tachypnea first is crucial to address the respiratory issue and prevent further deterioration. Choices A, B, and C do not present immediate life-threatening complications that require urgent assessment compared to a new onset of tachypnea.

3. A charge nurse on a long-term care unit is preparing to delegate tasks to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an assistive personnel (AP). Which of the following tasks should the charge nurse delegate to the LPN?

• A. Insert an IV catheter
• B. Administer initial NG tube feeding
• C. Administer insulin
• D. Give medications for diabetes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct task to delegate to the LPN is administering initial NG tube feeding. LPNs are trained to carry out this task as it falls within their scope of practice. Inserting an IV catheter (Choice A) is typically performed by registered nurses. Administering insulin (Choice C) and giving medications for diabetes (Choice D) involve assessing the patient's condition and adjusting medication dosage, which are responsibilities of registered nurses or higher-level healthcare providers.

4. A client with a tracheostomy is exhibiting signs of respiratory distress. What is the first action the nurse should take?

• A. Increase the suction setting on the ventilator
• B. Suction the tracheostomy
• C. Notify the physician immediately
• D. Encourage deep breathing exercises

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct first action for a client with a tracheostomy exhibiting signs of respiratory distress is to suction the tracheostomy. This helps clear the airway and improve breathing. Increasing the suction setting on the ventilator is not appropriate as the issue may be related to secretions that need to be directly removed. Notifying the physician should come after providing immediate nursing interventions. Encouraging deep breathing exercises is not suitable when the client is in respiratory distress and needs prompt intervention.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 hours postoperative following a colon resection. Which of the following assessments is the nurse's priority?

• A. Capillary refill
• B. Bowel sounds
• C. Temperature
• D. Oxygen saturation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Oxygen saturation. The priority assessment in this situation is oxygen saturation because postoperative clients are at risk for respiratory complications, such as hypoxia due to factors like anesthesia effects, impaired lung function, or pain interfering with deep breathing. Monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial to detect any respiratory compromise early. Capillary refill, bowel sounds, and temperature are important assessments but are not the priority in this immediate postoperative period.

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