Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a true statement about assessing blood pressure by palpation?

• A. Only the diastolic blood pressure can be assessed through palpation.
• B. The palpation technique is most useful for infants and small children.
• C. Hypertension is a common condition that might need to be assessed through blood pressure palpation.
• D. Only the systolic blood pressure can be assessed through palpation.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When assessing blood pressure by palpation, it is important to note that only the systolic blood pressure can be determined accurately using this method. Diastolic blood pressure cannot be reliably assessed through palpation. The palpation technique is particularly useful in situations where traditional blood pressure measurement methods are challenging, such as in infants, small children, or individuals with low blood pressure that is difficult to hear. Hypertension, a common condition characterized by elevated blood pressure, is typically assessed using auscultation rather than palpation. Therefore, the correct statement is that only the systolic blood pressure can be assessed through palpation.

2. At the beginning of the shift, a nurse receives report for her daily assignment. Which of the following situations should the nurse give first priority?

• A. A diabetic client with a blood glucose level of 195 mg/dL
• B. A family member of an elderly client who has questions
• C. A client with COPD with an oxygen saturation of 84%
• D. A client who requires assistance to use the bathroom

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When prioritizing the needs of clients, the nurse must begin with the unstable client or manage conditions that affect airway, breathing, or circulation first. The client with COPD has a condition that affects breathing and is exhibiting decreased oxygen saturation levels; therefore, this client should be the first priority. Option A, the diabetic client with a blood glucose level of 195 mg/dL, does not present an immediate threat to airway, breathing, or circulation. Option B, addressing questions from a family member, is important but can be addressed after addressing critical patient needs. Option D, assisting a client to use the bathroom, is a routine task that can be prioritized after addressing urgent medical needs.

3. A client with adrenal insufficiency has a potassium level of 7.2 mEq/L. Which of the following signs or symptoms might the client exhibit with this result?

• A. Peaked T waves on the ECG
• B. Muscle spasms
• C. Constipation
• D. A prominent U wave on the ECG

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A client with hyperkalemia may exhibit peaked T waves on an electrocardiogram. This manifestation is an early sign of high potassium levels, but diagnosis should not be based on this aspect alone. Untreated, hyperkalemia can lead to progressively worsening cardiac instability. Muscle spasms (Choice B) are more commonly associated with hypocalcemia. Constipation (Choice C) is not a typical sign of hyperkalemia. A prominent U wave on the ECG (Choice D) is associated with hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia.

4. A client in the emergency room enters the care area to start an IV. He finds a man sitting on the table, hunched over, and attempting to take deep breaths. He states, 'my chest hurts so much!' His wife is sitting on a chair in the corner, crying. Which of the following is the first action of the client?

• A. Bring the IV kit and quickly start an IV
• B. Assess his breathing and provide oxygen, if necessary
• C. Administer medication to control chest pain
• D. Talk with his wife and find out why she is crying

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the above scenario, the first action of the nurse should be to assess the client's airway and breathing. It is crucial to address respiratory status first, as the client appears to be experiencing difficulty breathing. Providing oxygen if necessary can help support oxygenation and alleviate potential respiratory distress. Administering medication for chest pain or starting an IV can come after ensuring adequate oxygenation. Talking with the client's wife, though important for emotional support, is not the priority when the client's respiratory status needs to be assessed and managed promptly.

5. Which of the following white blood cells is the smallest and can be involved in humoral immunity?

• A. Lymphocyte
• B. Monocyte
• C. Basophil
• D. Erythrocyte

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Lymphocyte.' Lymphocytes are the smallest type of white blood cells and play a crucial role in humoral immunity by producing antibodies. Monocytes are actually the largest white blood cells and are involved in phagocytosis rather than humoral immunity. Basophils are a type of granulocyte involved in allergic reactions, and erythrocytes are red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport, not part of the immune system.

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