Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is an early indication that a tracheostomy client requires suctioning?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Irritability
• C. Hypotension
• D. Decreased respiratory rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Irritability is indeed an early sign that a tracheostomy client may require suctioning. When a tracheostomy client becomes irritable, it can indicate that there is a need for suctioning to clear the airway. Bradycardia (choice A) refers to a slow heart rate and is not typically a direct indication for suctioning. Hypotension (choice C) indicates low blood pressure and is not specifically related to the need for suctioning. Decreased respiratory rate (choice D) can be a sign of respiratory distress, but irritability is a more direct and early indication of the need for suctioning in a tracheostomy client.

2. A nurse is reviewing the record of a client with dementia. Which of the following findings should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Wandering at night
• B. A serum albumin level of 3.5 g/dL
• C. Urinary incontinence
• D. Restlessness and agitation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Restlessness and agitation in clients with dementia could indicate a worsening condition and should be prioritized. While wandering at night and urinary incontinence are common issues in dementia patients, restlessness and agitation can signal acute distress or an unmet need, requiring immediate attention. Monitoring serum albumin levels is important for overall health but would not be the priority when assessing a client with dementia.

3. A client who decides not to have surgery despite significant blockages in his coronary arteries is an example of what principle?

• A. Fidelity
• B. Autonomy
• C. Justice
• D. Non-maleficence

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Autonomy. Autonomy in healthcare refers to respecting a patient's right to make decisions about their own care, even if those decisions may not align with healthcare providers' recommendations. In this scenario, the client's decision not to have surgery despite significant blockages in his coronary arteries demonstrates his autonomy in making choices about his own health. Choice A, Fidelity, refers to the concept of keeping promises and being faithful to commitments, which is not applicable in this situation. Choice C, Justice, involves fairness and equal treatment in healthcare, which is not the primary principle at play when a patient exercises autonomy. Choice D, Non-maleficence, relates to the principle of doing no harm, which is important but not directly relevant to the client's decision to refuse surgery.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who has returned to the medical-surgical unit following a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Which of the following should the nurse identify as a priority nursing assessment after reviewing the client's information?

• A. Level of consciousness.
• B. Skin turgor.
• C. Deep-tendon reflexes.
• D. Bowel sounds.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Level of consciousness. Following a TURP procedure, monitoring the client's level of consciousness is crucial as it can indicate potential postoperative complications such as hemorrhage or shock. Skin turgor (choice B) is more related to hydration status, deep-tendon reflexes (choice C) are not the priority post-TURP, and bowel sounds (choice D) are important but not the priority in this situation.

5. When teaching a client with left-leg weakness how to use a cane, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Use the cane on the weak side of the body
• B. Advance the cane and the strong leg simultaneously
• C. Maintain two points of support on the floor
• D. Advance the cane 30 to 45 cm (12-18 in) with each step

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the client with left-leg weakness using a cane is to maintain two points of support on the floor. This ensures stability and balance while walking. Choice A is incorrect because the cane should be used on the strong side of the body to provide additional support. Choice B is incorrect as the cane and the weak leg should move together for support. Choice D is incorrect as advancing the cane too far with each step may compromise balance and stability.

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