Nursing Elites

1. When teaching a patient to use the three-point gait technique of crutch use:

• A. The injured leg moves ahead at the same time as both crutches.
• B. One crutch moves at a time and is then followed by the injured leg.
• C. Both crutches move ahead at the same time followed by both legs at the same time.
• D. None of the above are correct.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for a three-point gait involves the injured leg moving simultaneously with both crutches, followed by the uninjured leg. This gait pattern is utilized when the patient is unable to bear full weight on one of their legs. Choice A accurately describes the appropriate sequence of movements for the three-point gait technique. Choices B and C do not accurately reflect the correct pattern of movement during the three-point gait technique, making them incorrect. Choice D is incorrect as there is a correct option among the choices provided.

2. Madge is a 91-year-old nursing home resident with a history of dementia and atrial fibrillation who has been admitted to the hospital for treatment of pneumonia. As you are performing her bed bath, you note bruising around her breasts and genital area. What potential issue should be of major concern in Madge's situation?

• A. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
• B. Embolic stroke
• C. Sexual abuse
• D. Nursing home-acquired pneumonia (NHAP)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Bruising around the breasts and genitals should trigger concern for sexual abuse. Elder abuse is a growing problem in America, and nurses are uniquely positioned to recognize and intervene on behalf of vulnerable populations, such as the elderly. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA), major types of elder abuse include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, neglect, abandonment, financial or material exploitation, and self-neglect. In this scenario, given Madge's age, history of dementia, and the presence of unexplained bruising in sensitive areas, sexual abuse must be considered as a major concern. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a platelet disorder that presents with excessive bruising and bleeding, but it is less likely in this case as the bruising pattern is suggestive of a different cause. Embolic stroke is a neurological condition that typically presents with sudden onset neurological deficits and is not related to the observed bruising. Nursing home-acquired pneumonia (NHAP) is a common issue in elderly residents but would not manifest as bruising in specific areas like the breasts and genitals.

3. Which of the following descriptions best describes the function of the thyroid gland?

• A. The thyroid gland converts glucose into glycogen
• B. The thyroid gland secretes cortisol during times of stress
• C. The thyroid gland regulates body metabolism
• D. The thyroid gland affects skin pigmentation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for secreting thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which work to regulate the metabolism of the body's cells. The primary function of the thyroid gland is to control the body's metabolic rate, affecting processes such as heart rate, temperature regulation, and energy levels. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland is not involved in converting glucose into glycogen, secreting cortisol, or affecting skin pigmentation. Instead, the primary role of the thyroid gland is to regulate the metabolism and energy balance in the body.

4. Which of the following is classified as a prerenal condition that affects urinary elimination?

• A. Nephrotoxic medications
• B. Pericardial tamponade
• C. Neurogenic bladder
• D. Polycystic kidney disease

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A prerenal condition is one that causes reduced urinary elimination by affecting the blood flow to the kidneys. Pericardial tamponade is a condition that impacts the heart's ability to pump sufficient blood, leading to decreased blood flow to vital organs such as the kidneys. This reduction in blood flow to the kidneys can result in decreased urine production. The other choices, such as nephrotoxic medications, neurogenic bladder, and polycystic kidney disease, do not primarily affect the blood flow to the kidneys and are not classified as prerenal conditions that impact urinary elimination.

5. One major difference between long term care and respite centers is the fact that long term care facilities:

• A. provide both physical and emotional care on an ongoing basis, while respite centers offer only temporary services.
• B. provide care for residents on a long-term basis, while respite centers offer only outpatient services.
• C. provide care for residents on a long-term basis, while respite centers offer only temporary services.
• D. There is no difference. Long-term care and respite care are the same.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The major difference between long-term care and respite centers is that long-term care facilities provide both physical and emotional care on an ongoing, long-term basis. This continuous care is essential for residents who require extended assistance. In contrast, respite centers offer temporary services, providing similar care but for a short-term duration. These short-term services are designed to give family caregivers a break from their daily responsibilities. Choice A is incorrect because both long-term care and respite centers can offer both physical and emotional care, but the key distinction lies in the duration of care provided. Choice B is incorrect as respite centers do not typically offer outpatient services, and the focus is on temporary relief rather than long-term care. Choice D is incorrect as the question clearly highlights a major difference between long-term care and respite centers.

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