Nursing Elites

1. What assessment data should lead the nurse to suspect that a client has progressed from HIV infection to AIDS?

• A. Enlarged and tender cervical lymph nodes
• B. Presence of low-grade fever and sore throat
• C. Recent history of recurrent pneumonia
• D. CD4 blood cell count of 300

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Recent history of recurrent pneumonia.' Recurrent pneumonia is a hallmark indicator of progression to AIDS in clients with HIV infection. It signifies advanced immunosuppression when the body is unable to fight off infections effectively. Enlarged and tender cervical lymph nodes (Choice A) are more indicative of local infections or inflammation rather than AIDS progression. The presence of a low-grade fever and sore throat (Choice B) may be common in various infections and are not specific to AIDS progression. While a CD4 blood cell count of 300 (Choice D) is below the normal range and indicates immunosuppression, it alone may not be sufficient to suspect progression to AIDS without other supporting indicators like opportunistic infections such as recurrent pneumonia.

2. The nurse is assessing a client with pulmonary edema who is reporting two-pillow orthopnea and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. The nurse identifies rapid shallow respirations and the use of accessory muscles. Which action should the nurse include in the client’s plan of care?

• A. Administer the prescribed amiodarone (Cordarone) immediately
• B. Institute a daily fluid restriction while the client is in the hospital
• C. Perform a blood draw for serum Troponin, CK, and CK-MB levels
• D. Place the client in the Trendelenburg position to facilitate perfusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering amiodarone is appropriate if arrhythmias are present in the context of pulmonary edema, as it helps manage irregular heart rhythms. In this case, the client is experiencing symptoms related to respiratory distress, and amiodarone can address potential arrhythmias contributing to the condition. Options B and D are not directly related to managing symptoms of pulmonary edema and do not address the underlying cause of the client's distress. Option C, performing blood tests for cardiac enzymes, is important for assessing possible myocardial damage but does not directly address the immediate respiratory distress associated with pulmonary edema.

3. The client is assessing a client who was recently diagnosed with heart failure and is on a low-sodium diet. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. “I will use lemon juice and herbs for flavoring.”
• B. “I will not eat canned soups or frozen dinners.”
• C. “I can have salt substitutes to enhance the taste of my food.”
• D. “I will check the food labels for sodium content before buying.”

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Some salt substitutes can be high in potassium, which may not be suitable for clients with heart failure. Option A is correct as using lemon juice and herbs for flavoring is a good low-sodium alternative. Option B is also correct as canned soups and frozen dinners are typically high in sodium content. Option D is correct as checking food labels for sodium content is an essential part of managing a low-sodium diet. Therefore, the client's statement about using salt substitutes needs correction as it can introduce high levels of potassium, which may not be recommended for individuals with heart failure.

4. The parents of a 6-year-old child recently diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy tell the nurse that their child wants to continue attending swimming classes. How should the nurse respond?

• A. Encourage the parents to allow the child to continue attending swimming lessons with supervision
• B. Suggest that the child be encouraged to participate in a team sport to promote socialization
• C. Explain that their child is not mature enough to understand the risks associated with swimming
• D. Provide a list of alternative activities that are less likely to cause the child to experience fatigue

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging the parents to allow the child to continue attending swimming lessons with supervision is the most appropriate response. Swimming can be beneficial for the child, providing both exercise and enjoyment. Supervision can help manage any risks associated with swimming. Choice B is incorrect because the child's preference for swimming should be respected, and swimming can still offer socialization opportunities. Choice C is incorrect as it undermines the child's capability to understand the situation. Choice D is less appropriate as it does not address the child's interest in swimming and may limit beneficial physical activity.

5. A college student brings a dorm roommate to the campus clinic because the roommate has been talking to someone who is not present. The client tells the nurse that her voices are saying, “Kill, Kill.” What question should the nurse ask the client next?

• A. When did these voices begin?
• B. Are you planning to obey the voices?
• C. Have you taken any hallucinogens?
• D. Do you believe the voices are real?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing whether the client has a plan to act on the voices is critical for evaluating the risk of harm. Asking if the client is planning to obey the voices helps determine the immediate safety concerns. While understanding when the voices began could provide insight into the situation, assessing the intent to act on them is more urgent. Asking about hallucinogen use may be relevant but does not address the immediate safety issue. Inquiring about the client's belief in the reality of the voices is important but does not address the immediate risk of harm.

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