Nursing Elites

1. Which nursing measure would be most effective in helping the client cough and deep breathe after a cholecystectomy?

• A. Having the client take rapid, shallow breaths to decrease pain.
• B. Having the client lay on the left side while coughing and deep breathing.
• C. Teaching the client to use a folded blanket or pillow to splint the incision.
• D. Withholding pain medication so the client can be alert enough to follow the nurse's instructions.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After a cholecystectomy, teaching the client to use a folded blanket or pillow to splint the incision will be most effective in helping the client cough and deep breathe. This technique provides support and reduces pain during coughing and deep breathing, promoting better lung expansion. Having the client take rapid, shallow breaths would not be effective in decreasing pain; instead, deep breathing is encouraged to prevent complications like atelectasis. Lying on the left side would limit lung expansion; therefore, the client should be positioned in semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position to maximize lung expansion. Withholding pain medication can lead to discomfort and reluctance to cough and deep breathe, hindering recovery.

2. Rob is a 46 y.o. admitted to the hospital with a suspected diagnosis of Hepatitis B. He’s jaundiced and reports weakness. Which intervention will you include in his care?

• A. Regular exercise.
• B. A low-protein diet.
• C. Allow patient to select his meals.
• D. Rest period after small, frequent meals.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: For a patient with hepatitis B who is jaundiced and reports weakness, providing rest periods after small, frequent meals is important.

3. Cholestyramine resin (Questran Light) is prescribed for the client with an elevated serum cholesterol level. The nurse would instruct the client to take the medication

• A. After meals.
• B. Mixed with fruit juice.
• C. Via rectal suppository.
• D. At least 3 hours before meals.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cholestyramine resin binds with bile salts in the intestines to form a compound that is excreted in the feces. The client should be instructed to mix the medication with 3 to 6 oz of water, milk, fruit juice, or soup. The medication should be administered before meals. The medication is not administered via rectal suppository.

4. A Penrose drain is in place on the first postoperative day following a cholecystectomy. Serosanguineous drainage is noted on the dressing covering the drain. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

• A. Notify the physician.
• B. Change the dressing.
• C. Circle the amount on the dressing with a pen.
• D. Continue to monitor the drainage.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Serosanguineous drainage with a small amount of bile is expected from the Penrose drain for the first 24 hours. Drainage then decreases, and the drain is removed usually within 48 hours. The nurse does not need to notify the physician. A sterile dressing covers the site and should be changed to prevent infection and skin excoriation.

5. A client with gastric cancer may exhibit which of the following symptoms?

• A. Abdominal cramping
• B. Constant hunger
• C. Feeling of fullness
• D. Weight gain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Clients with gastric cancer may experience a feeling of fullness due to the presence of the tumor.

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