what is the best nursing action for a patient presenting with respiratory distress
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI RN Exit Exam

1. What is the best intervention for a patient presenting with respiratory distress?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen is the most critical intervention for a patient in respiratory distress as it helps improve oxygenation levels. Oxygen therapy aims to increase oxygen saturation in the blood, providing relief and support during episodes of respiratory distress. Administering bronchodilators may be beneficial in some cases, but oxygen therapy takes precedence in addressing the underlying issue of inadequate oxygenation. Repositioning the patient may help optimize ventilation but does not directly address the primary need for increased oxygen. Providing humidified air can offer comfort but does not address the urgent need for improved oxygen levels in a patient experiencing respiratory distress.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is receiving teaching from a nurse about foot care. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to trim toenails straight across. This instruction is crucial for clients with diabetes to prevent ingrown toenails, which can lead to infection. Soaking feet in warm water daily can increase the risk of skin breakdown. Cotton socks are recommended, but the priority in foot care for diabetes is proper nail trimming. Using a heating pad can also pose a burn risk for individuals with reduced sensation in their feet.

3. A nurse is planning care for a client with thrombocytopenia. Which action should be included?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action to include in the care plan for a client with thrombocytopenia is to provide a stool softener. Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by low platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding. Providing a stool softener helps prevent straining during bowel movements, reducing the risk of bleeding episodes. Encouraging the client to floss daily (choice A) is important for oral hygiene but is not directly related to thrombocytopenia. Removing fresh flowers from the client's room (choice B) is more relevant for clients with neutropenia to reduce the risk of infection. Avoiding serving the client raw vegetables (choice D) is important for clients with compromised immune systems but is not specifically related to thrombocytopenia.

4. A nurse is preparing to measure the temperature of an infant. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct method for measuring an infant's temperature is by placing the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla (armpit). This method is non-invasive and safe. Pulling the pinna of the ear forward is used when taking a tympanic temperature. Inserting the probe into the rectum is done for rectal temperature measurement, which is not recommended as an initial method in infants. Inserting the thermometer in front of the infant's tongue is not a standard method for measuring temperature in infants.

5. A client with a history of depression and experiencing a situational crisis is being assessed by a nurse. What action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client with a history of depression is experiencing a situational crisis, the first action the nurse should take is to notify the client's support system. This is crucial as the client may require immediate assistance and support. While helping the client identify personal strengths and confirming the client's perception of the event are important aspects of the assessment and intervention process, notifying the support system takes priority in ensuring the client's safety and well-being. Teaching relaxation techniques may be beneficial but addressing the client's immediate crisis through support system notification is the most appropriate initial action.

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