Nursing Elites

1. What is the priority for the nurse when caring for a patient with a chest tube?

• A. Ensure tube patency and observe for air leaks
• B. Maintain sterile technique during dressing changes
• C. Monitor drainage and record output
• D. Observe for signs of infection and monitor for subcutaneous emphysema

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority for the nurse when caring for a patient with a chest tube is to ensure tube patency and observe for air leaks. This is essential to prevent complications such as pneumothorax and ensure the patient's lung function. While maintaining sterile technique during dressing changes, monitoring drainage, recording output, and observing for signs of infection and subcutaneous emphysema are also important, ensuring tube patency takes precedence as it directly impacts the patient's respiratory status and overall safety.

2. A client has an NG tube that needs irrigation every 8 hours. Which solution should be used to irrigate the tube to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance?

• A. Tap water
• B. Sterile water
• C. 0.9% sodium chloride
• D. 0.45% sodium chloride

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 0.9% sodium chloride. This solution is isotonic and helps maintain electrolyte balance during irrigation, preventing fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Tap water (choice A) may cause electrolyte imbalances due to its hypotonic nature. Sterile water (choice B) is hypotonic and can lead to electrolyte disturbances. 0.45% sodium chloride (choice D) is hypotonic and may also disrupt electrolyte balance when used for irrigation.

3. A nurse is collecting data from a client who has Tourette syndrome. The client reports taking haloperidol 0.5 mL orally three times a day at home. Which of the following components of the prescription should the nurse question?

• A. Frequency
• B. Dosage
• C. Timing of doses
• D. Route

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should question the dosage of haloperidol as it is typically administered in milligrams (mg) and not milliliters (mL). The dosage should be expressed in a standardized unit for accuracy and to prevent medication errors. Frequency, timing of doses, and route are also important components of a prescription, but in this case, the nurse should focus on the unusual dosage form.

4. A nurse is teaching a client who has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) about dietary modifications. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Increase fiber intake to 35 grams per day
• B. Avoid dairy products
• C. Eat small, frequent meals
• D. Avoid fruits and vegetables

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Eat small, frequent meals.' Eating small, frequent meals helps manage IBS symptoms by avoiding overloading the digestive system. Choice A is incorrect because increasing fiber intake may worsen symptoms in some individuals with IBS. Choice B is not a blanket recommendation for all IBS patients; some may tolerate dairy products well. Choice D is incorrect as fruits and vegetables are important sources of nutrients and should not be completely avoided unless specific triggers are identified.

5. A client has hypoglycemia and is conscious. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Administer glucagon IM
• B. Give the client 4 oz of fruit juice
• C. Provide the client with peanut butter
• D. Give the client 1 L of water

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In conscious clients with hypoglycemia, the most appropriate action is to provide a rapidly absorbed carbohydrate source like fruit juice to raise blood glucose levels quickly. Administering glucagon intramuscularly (IM) is usually reserved for unconscious clients or those who are unable to take oral glucose. Providing peanut butter or water would not rapidly address the hypoglycemic state as fruit juice would.

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