Nursing Elites

1. What is the most critical lab value to monitor for a patient on heparin therapy?

• A. Monitor aPTT levels
• B. Monitor platelet count
• C. Monitor INR levels
• D. Monitor sodium levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor aPTT levels. Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) is crucial for assessing the therapeutic effectiveness of heparin, as it reflects the intrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade. Monitoring aPTT helps ensure that the patient is within the therapeutic range of heparin, minimizing the risk of bleeding complications. Platelet count (choice B) is important to assess for potential heparin-induced thrombocytopenia but is not the primary lab value to monitor during heparin therapy. INR levels (choice C) are monitored in patients on warfarin therapy, not heparin. Sodium levels (choice D) are not directly related to heparin therapy monitoring.

2. A client receiving warfarin is being taught by a nurse. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will avoid eating leafy green vegetables while taking this medication.
• B. I will need to have my INR checked regularly while taking this medication.
• C. I will take this medication at the same time each day.
• D. I will avoid taking aspirin while taking this medication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because clients taking warfarin should avoid aspirin to reduce the risk of bleeding, as both medications can thin the blood. Choice A is incorrect because it is essential to eat a consistent amount of leafy green vegetables to maintain a steady intake of Vitamin K, which can impact warfarin's effectiveness. Choice B is incorrect although important because INR checks are necessary but do not specifically show an understanding of the teaching. Choice C is incorrect because while taking warfarin at the same time each day is beneficial for consistency, it does not directly address the interaction with aspirin.

3. A patient is receiving chemotherapy and has developed stomatitis. Which of the following dietary recommendations should the nurse make?

• A. Eat salty foods to stimulate salivation.
• B. Avoid spicy foods.
• C. Increase intake of high-fiber foods.
• D. Consume cold foods to soothe the mucosa.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Correct choice: Consume cold foods to soothe the mucosa. Cold foods can help soothe the mucosa and reduce discomfort for patients with stomatitis caused by chemotherapy.\nIncorrect choices: A) Salty foods may irritate the mucosa further. B) Spicy foods can increase discomfort and irritation. C) High-fiber foods may be rough and abrasive, exacerbating the condition.

4. How should a healthcare professional monitor a patient with a central line for infection?

• A. Monitor the dressing site daily
• B. Check for redness and swelling
• C. Monitor for fever
• D. Flush the central line

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring the dressing site daily is crucial for detecting early signs of infection in patients with central lines. Checking for redness and swelling (choice B) is important but may indicate a more advanced stage of infection. Monitoring for fever (choice C) can also be a sign of infection, but it is a later manifestation. Flushing the central line (choice D) is necessary for maintaining patency but does not directly monitor for infection.

5. While caring for a newborn under phototherapy lights, which of the following is an appropriate nursing action?

• A. Ensure the eye shield is covering the eyes.
• B. Apply lotion to the exposed skin.
• C. Offer glucose water between feedings.
• D. Discontinue breastfeeding during treatment.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to ensure the eye shield is covering the eyes. Protecting the newborn's eyes from exposure to direct light is crucial during phototherapy to prevent potential eye damage. Applying lotion to the exposed skin (choice B) is not recommended as it can interfere with the effectiveness of the phototherapy. Offering glucose water between feedings (choice C) is not necessary and may not be suitable for a newborn undergoing treatment. Discontinuing breastfeeding during treatment (choice D) is not recommended as breast milk provides essential nutrients and hydration for the newborn, and breastfeeding should continue unless contraindicated by a specific medical condition.

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