Nursing Elites

1. What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient with confusion post-surgery?

• A. Administer oxygen
• B. Reposition the patient
• C. Administer IV fluids
• D. Perform a neurological assessment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen is the most appropriate intervention for a patient with confusion post-surgery because it helps alleviate confusion caused by potential hypoxia. In a post-surgical setting, confusion can be a sign of decreased oxygen levels in the blood due to various reasons such as respiratory depression, decreased lung function, or other complications. Administering oxygen can quickly address hypoxia, improving oxygenation to the brain and reducing confusion. Repositioning the patient, administering IV fluids, or performing a neurological assessment are not the primary interventions for confusion related to hypoxia post-surgery.

2. What is the best method to assess for fluid overload in patients with heart failure?

• A. Monitor daily weight
• B. Check for jugular vein distention
• C. Check for pitting edema
• D. Check for fluid retention

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor daily weight. Daily weight monitoring is the most accurate method to assess fluid overload in patients with heart failure. Changes in weight can indicate fluid retention before visible signs like jugular vein distention or pitting edema appear. Checking for jugular vein distention (choice B) is helpful but may not be as sensitive as daily weight monitoring. Pitting edema (choice C) and fluid retention (choice D) are signs of fluid overload, but daily weight monitoring is a more proactive approach to detect changes early.

3. A client is being taught about patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Which statement should be included in the teaching?

• A. The PCA will deliver a double dose of medication when you push the button twice.
• B. Continuous PCA infusion is designed to allow fluctuating plasma medication levels.
• C. You should push the button before physical activity to allow maximum pain control.
• D. You can adjust the amount of pain medication you receive by pushing on the keypad.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching about PCA is that the client can adjust the amount of pain medication they receive by pushing on the keypad. This empowers the client to control their pain management effectively. Choice A is incorrect because PCA systems are programmed to prevent double dosing when the button is pressed multiple times in quick succession. Choice B is incorrect as continuous PCA infusion aims to maintain a steady plasma medication level. Choice C is incorrect because it is not necessary to push the button before physical activity to ensure maximum pain control; the client should use the PCA as needed for pain relief.

4. A client is being discharged with a new prescription for levothyroxine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take this medication with meals to avoid stomach upset.
• B. Take this medication at the same time every day.
• C. Notify your provider if you experience chest pain or palpitations.
• D. Take this medication with antacids to reduce indigestion.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Take this medication at the same time every day.' It is crucial to take levothyroxine at the same time each day to maintain consistent thyroid hormone levels. Choice A is incorrect because levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, usually in the morning. Choice C is important but not specific to the administration of levothyroxine. Choice D is incorrect as antacids can interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine.

5. A nurse is preparing an in-service for a group of nurses about malpractice issues in nursing. Which of the following examples should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Leaving a nasogastric tube clamped after administering oral medication.
• B. Documenting communication with a provider in the progress notes of the client's medical records.
• C. Administering potassium via IV bolus.
• D. Placing a yellow bracelet on a client who is at risk for falls.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Administering potassium via IV bolus is a malpractice issue due to the risk of cardiac complications. Option A is incorrect as leaving a nasogastric tube clamped after administering oral medication can lead to complications but is not directly linked to malpractice. Option B is incorrect as documenting communication with a provider in the progress notes is a necessary part of nursing practice. Option D is incorrect as placing a yellow bracelet on a client at risk for falls is a safety measure to prevent falls and is not related to malpractice issues.

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