Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a pulse, what should be noted?

• A. Rate
• B. Rate and quality
• C. Rate, quality, and fullness
• D. Rate, quality, fullness, and regularity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When assessing a pulse, it is important to note the rate (number of beats per minute), quality (regular or irregular), and fullness (thread and weak or full and bounding). These aspects provide crucial information about the patient's cardiovascular status. Regularity, as mentioned in option D, is not typically assessed during a pulse check and is not necessary for routine pulse assessment. Choice A is too limited as it overlooks important aspects beyond just the rate. Choice B improves by adding quality but still lacks the fullness aspect. Choice C is the most comprehensive and accurate as it includes all three essential aspects for a thorough pulse assessment.

2. When examining an older adult, which technique should the nurse use?

• A. Minimize touching the patient as much as possible.
• B. Attempt to perform the entire physical examination during one visit.
• C. Speak loudly and slowly due to potential hearing deficits in aging adults.
• D. Arrange the sequence of the examination to allow as few position changes as possible.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When examining an older adult, it is crucial to arrange the sequence of the examination to minimize position changes. This helps prevent discomfort and fatigue for the older adult, who may have mobility issues. Option A is incorrect because physical touch is essential when examining older adults, as their other senses may be diminished. Option B is incorrect as it is better to break the examination into multiple visits to ensure thoroughness and comfort. Option C is incorrect because while some older adults may have hearing deficits, it is not appropriate to assume this for all individuals without proper assessment.

3. Mr. and Mrs. K have just adopted a newborn infant and are preparing to take him home from the hospital for the first time. Which safety measure is most appropriate for the clients in this situation?

• A. Turn the handles of pans on the stove inward
• B. Set up a baby gate at the top of the stairs
• C. Cover electrical outlets with child-proof plugs
• D. Install an approved car seat that is facing backward in the back seat

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Parents of newborn infants should use an approved car seat that has been installed facing backward in the back seat of the car. Securing infants in car seats, even from the first ride home from the hospital, promotes safety while transporting. While safety measures at home such as baby gates or outlet covers are important, they are not the priority safety measures until the baby is old enough to be mobile. The car seat is crucial for protecting the newborn during transportation, ensuring proper positioning and restraint in the event of sudden stops or accidents. Turning handles of pans on the stove inward, setting up a baby gate, and covering electrical outlets are important safety measures at home but are not as critical for the immediate safety of a newborn during transportation.

4. A 2-year-old child has been brought to the clinic for a well-child checkup. What is the best way for the nurse to begin the assessment?

• A. Ask the parent to place the child on the examining table.
• B. Have the parent remove all of the child's clothing before the examination.
• C. Allow the child to keep a security object such as a toy or blanket during the examination.
• D. Initially focus the interactions on the child, essentially ignoring the parent until the child's trust has been obtained.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best place to examine the toddler is on the parent's lap. Toddlers understand symbols; therefore, a security object is helpful. Initially, the focus is more on the parent, which allows the child to adjust gradually and to become familiar with you. A 2-year-old child does not like to take off his or her clothes. Therefore, ask the parent to undress one body part at a time.

5. Improper placement of the hands under the rib cage when performing the Heimlich maneuver could result in:

• A. damage to the manubrium of the sternum.
• B. damage to the xiphoid process.
• C. damage to the coccyx.
• D. None of the above is possible, even with improper hand placement.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The xiphoid process is a small, cartilaginous extension at the inferior end of the sternum. Placing the hands improperly during the Heimlich maneuver too close to this process can result in it breaking off and potentially causing damage to internal organs. Choices A and C are incorrect because the manubrium of the sternum and the coccyx are not in the area where the hands would typically be placed during the Heimlich maneuver.

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