Nursing Elites

1. What is an important nursing responsibility when a dysrhythmia is suspected?

• A. order an immediate electrocardiogram
• B. count the radial pulse every 1 minute for five times
• C. count the apical pulse for 1 full minute, and compare the rate with the radial pulse rate
• D. have someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously with the apical pulse

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a dysrhythmia is suspected, an important nursing responsibility is to count the apical pulse for 1 full minute and then compare this rate with the radial pulse rate. This method helps in identifying dysrhythmias as it allows for a direct comparison of the heart's rhythm at two different pulse points. Ordering an immediate electrocardiogram (Choice A) may be necessary but should not be the first step. Counting the radial pulse multiple times (Choice B) is not as accurate as comparing rates directly. Having someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously (Choice D) may introduce errors and inconsistencies in the measurement.

2. Why should the nurse closely monitor the IV flow rate for a 5-month-old infant with severe diarrhea receiving IV fluids?

• A. Maintaining electrolyte balance
• B. Preventing dehydration
• C. Preventing fluid overload
• D. Avoiding cardiac overload

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In infants, monitoring IV flow rates is essential to prevent fluid overload, not cardiac overload. Excessive fluid administration can lead to complications such as pulmonary edema or congestive heart failure. It is crucial to maintain a balance between providing adequate hydration and avoiding fluid overload to prevent adverse outcomes. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because the primary concern is to prevent complications related to excess fluid rather than focusing on electrolyte balance, dehydration prevention, or avoiding cardiac overload.

3. At 0345, you receive a call for a woman in labor. Upon arriving at the scene, you are greeted by a very anxious man who tells you that his wife is having her baby 'now.' This man escorts you into the living room where a 25-year-old woman is lying on the couch in obvious pain. After determining that delivery is not imminent, you begin transport. While en route, the mother tells you that she feels the urge to push. You assess her and see the top of the baby's head bulging from the vagina. What is your most appropriate first action?

• A. Allow the head to deliver and check for the location of the cord.
• B. Advise your partner to stop the ambulance and assist with the delivery.
• C. Tell the mother to take short, quick breaths until you arrive at the hospital.
• D. Prepare the mother for an emergency delivery and open the obstetrics kit.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate first action is to advise your partner to stop the ambulance and assist with the delivery. When the baby's head is visible and delivery is imminent, it is crucial to provide immediate assistance to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Allowing the head to deliver and checking for the location of the cord (Choice A) may delay necessary actions during an imminent delivery. Instructing the mother to take short, quick breaths (Choice C) is not suitable as active delivery is already in progress. Preparing the mother for an emergency delivery and opening the obstetrics kit (Choice D) is not the most immediate action needed when the baby's head is already visible and delivery is imminent.

4. When teaching the parents of a child with a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus about insulin administration, what should the nurse emphasize?

• A. Rotate injection sites
• B. Administer insulin before meals
• C. Store insulin in the refrigerator
• D. Administer insulin at bedtime

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to rotate injection sites. This practice helps prevent lipodystrophy, a localized loss of fat tissue that can affect insulin absorption. By rotating sites, the child can avoid developing lumps or indentations in the skin where insulin is repeatedly injected. Administering insulin before meals (choice B) may be necessary for certain types of insulin but is not the priority when teaching about insulin administration. Storing insulin in the refrigerator (choice C) is important for maintaining its potency, but it is not the primary emphasis when teaching about insulin administration. Administering insulin at bedtime (choice D) may be necessary based on the child's insulin regimen but is not the primary consideration for teaching injection techniques and site rotation.

5. The nurse is preparing a presentation to a local community group about genetic disorders and the types of congenital anomalies that can occur. What would the nurse include as a major congenital anomaly?

• A. Overlapping digits
• B. Polydactyly
• C. Umbilical hernia
• D. Cleft palate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cleft palate is considered a major congenital anomaly because it involves a gap or split in the roof of the mouth, which can significantly impact feeding, speech development, dental health, and overall well-being. Overlapping digits (Choice A) and polydactyly (Choice B) are examples of limb abnormalities rather than major congenital anomalies affecting vital functions. Umbilical hernia (Choice C) is a common condition where abdominal organs protrude through the belly button and is typically not considered a major congenital anomaly in the same way as cleft palate.

Similar Questions