Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following interventions is necessary before insertion of an arterial line into the radial artery?

• A. Ensure that the client does not need surgery
• B. Assess the client's grip strength
• C. Perform an Allen test
• D. Check a serum potassium level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Before inserting an arterial line into the radial artery, it is crucial to perform an Allen test. The Allen test assesses the collateral circulation to the hand by compressing both the radial and ulnar arteries. By occluding the radial artery and releasing the ulnar artery, the nurse can check if the ulnar artery can adequately supply blood to the hand if the radial artery is cannulated. This step ensures that there is adequate circulation to the hand post-insertion of the arterial line. Choice A, ensuring that the client does not need surgery, is not directly related to the insertion of an arterial line and is not a necessary step before the procedure. Choice B, assessing grip strength, is not specific to the vascular status of the hand and does not provide information about the adequacy of collateral circulation. Choice D, checking a serum potassium level, is unrelated to the assessment of radial artery patency and collateral circulation, which are the primary concerns before arterial line insertion.

2. In which situation might an occupational health nurse consultation be necessary?

• A. A nurse is injured from using incorrect body mechanics to lift a client
• B. A nurse receives a subpoena to testify in court about a client's case
• C. A client who has been injured in a diving accident needs assistance with planning rehabilitation and surgery
• D. A nursing unit is implementing a new electronic health record system

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An occupational health nurse is involved in assessing the work environment, educating employees about safety practices, and infection control. When a nurse sustains an injury due to incorrect body mechanics, it falls under the purview of an occupational health nurse because they are responsible for documenting such incidents, providing necessary care or treatment, and ensuring that preventive measures are in place to avoid similar accidents in the future. The other options do not directly relate to the role of an occupational health nurse. Testifying in court, assisting a client with rehabilitation, or implementing a new electronic health record system are not typical scenarios where an occupational health nurse would be involved.

3. Which example best describes the concept of beneficence?

• A. A nurse provides pain medication for a client in the recovery room who is experiencing pain
• B. A client has an advanced directive in place stating that he does not want intubation if he needs CPR
• C. At the request of the client, a nurse does not inform the family about his cancer diagnosis
• D. A nurse withholds narcotic medication for a client in pain, knowing that he is currently disoriented

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Beneficence is the ethical principle of doing good and acting in the best interest of the client. Providing pain relief to a client in the recovery room who is experiencing pain aligns with beneficence as it promotes the client's well-being and comfort. Choice B is related to autonomy, where the client's wishes regarding treatment are respected. Choice C involves confidentiality and the client's right to privacy. Choice D represents nonmaleficence, as withholding pain medication from a client in pain could cause harm and goes against the principle of doing no harm.

4. You are caring for a patient with newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis. Discharge instructions will likely include all of the following EXCEPT:

• A. PT referral for development of a planned exercise program
• B. Avoidance of prolonged sun exposure
• C. Hot baths to promote muscle relaxation
• D. Instructions to evaluate the home environment to ensure safety

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Discharge instructions for a patient with newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis should focus on promoting safety and minimizing exacerbations. Hot baths should be avoided as excessive heat can trigger acute symptoms. Therefore, instructions may include PT referral for an exercise program to maintain mobility, avoidance of prolonged sun exposure to prevent symptom exacerbation, and guidance to evaluate the home environment for safety as symptoms progress. Hot baths are not recommended due to the risk of exacerbating symptoms, making it the correct answer. Choices A, B, and D are appropriate for a patient with multiple sclerosis, as they address mobility, symptom management, and safety concerns, respectively.

5. Which of the following reasons would be legal when considering a patient's medical record?

• A. Allowing a patient's brother to view her chart to find out her birthdate and address so that he can mail her a card
• B. Not allowing a patient to view her own chart because the physician feels this information would be detrimental to her wellbeing
• C. Not allowing a patient to view her chart because she is behind on her payments
• D. All of the above are legal

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is not allowing a patient to view her own chart because the physician feels this information would be detrimental to her wellbeing. Physicians have a duty to withhold certain health information from patients if disclosing it could potentially harm the patient. In situations where revealing certain information may have a significantly negative impact on the patient's mental or physical health, healthcare providers have the legal right to withhold that information. Allowing a patient's brother to view her chart for non-medical reasons like sending a card is not a valid legal reason for disclosing patient information. Similarly, refusing access based on financial reasons is not a legal ground for restricting access to a patient's medical record as patient care should not be influenced by financial matters.

Similar Questions