Nursing Elites

1. Which goal has the highest priority in the plan of care for a 26-year-old homeless patient admitted with viral hepatitis who has severe anorexia and fatigue?

• A. Increase activity level.
• B. Maintain adequate nutrition
• C. Establish a stable environment
• D. Identify sources of hepatitis exposure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The highest priority outcome is to maintain adequate nutrition because it is essential for hepatocyte regeneration. In viral hepatitis, the liver is affected, and proper nutrition supports the liver's function and regeneration. While increasing activity level and establishing a stable environment are important, they are not as urgent as ensuring the patient receives proper nutrition. Identifying sources of hepatitis exposure can help prevent future infections, but in the acute phase, the immediate focus should be on providing adequate nutrition to support the patient's recovery.

2. Your patient has been diagnosed with acute bronchitis. You should expect that all of the following will be ordered EXCEPT:

• A. Increased fluid intake
• B. Cough medications
• C. Antibiotics
• D. Use of a vaporizer

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the management of acute bronchitis, antibiotics are not typically prescribed unless there is a confirmed bacterial infection. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus, so antibiotics are not effective in treating it. The primary focus is on symptom management and supportive care. Increased fluid intake helps keep the airway moist and liquefy secretions, aiding in their removal. Cough medications can help relieve cough symptoms. The use of a vaporizer can help moisten the air, making breathing more comfortable for the patient. It is crucial to differentiate between viral and bacterial causes of respiratory infections to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and prevent antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Antibiotics.' Increased fluid intake, cough medications, and the use of a vaporizer are commonly recommended for managing symptoms and improving comfort in patients with acute bronchitis.

3. The patient with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is receiving epoprostenol (Flolan). Which assessment information requires the most immediate action by the nurse?

• A. The oxygen saturation is 94%.
• B. The blood pressure is 98/56 mm Hg.
• C. The patient's central IV line is disconnected.
• D. The international normalized ratio (INR) is prolonged.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most immediate action required by the nurse is to address the disconnected central IV line delivering epoprostenol (Flolan). Epoprostenol has a short half-life of 6 minutes, necessitating immediate reconnection to prevent rapid clinical deterioration. While oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and INR are important parameters requiring monitoring and intervention, the priority lies in ensuring the continuous delivery of the critical medication to stabilize the patient's condition.

4. The nurse is reviewing the lab results of a patient taking lithium for schizoaffective disorder. The lab results show that the blood lithium value is 1.7 mcg/L. What would the nurse take as the priority action?

• A. Induce vomiting
• B. Hold the next dose of Lithium
• C. Administer an antiemetic
• D. Give the next dose of Lithium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to hold the next dose of Lithium. The blood lithium value of 1.7 mcg/L exceeds the therapeutic range of 0.5-1.5 mcg/L, indicating potential toxicity. Holding the next dose is crucial to prevent further accumulation of lithium in the bloodstream. Inducing vomiting is not appropriate in this situation as the priority is to prevent further absorption of lithium. Administering an antiemetic is not the priority in lithium toxicity. Giving the next dose of lithium would exacerbate the toxicity and should be avoided.

5. The nurse provides home care instructions to the parents of a child with celiac disease. The nurse should teach the parents to include which food item in the child's diet?

• A. Rice
• B. Oatmeal
• C. Rye toast
• D. White bread

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In celiac disease, individuals are intolerant to gluten found in wheat, barley, rye, and oats. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate these grains from the diet. Rice, corn, or millet are safe alternatives for individuals with celiac disease. Oatmeal is generally avoided unless specifically labeled as gluten-free due to possible cross-contamination. Rye toast and white bread contain gluten and should be avoided in celiac disease. Vitamin supplements may also be necessary to address deficiencies caused by dietary restrictions.

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