Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is an early indicator that a client with a tracheostomy may require suctioning?

• A. Decreased respiratory rate
• B. Irritability
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Decreased oxygen saturation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Irritability is an early indicator that suctioning is necessary for a client with a tracheostomy. Irritability can signal discomfort or difficulty breathing, which may be due to the need for suctioning to clear the airway. Decreased respiratory rate, bradycardia, and decreased oxygen saturation are not typically early indicators that suctioning is needed in a client with a tracheostomy. These symptoms may occur later if the airway is not cleared promptly.

2. A healthcare professional is planning care for a client who has a prescription for mechanical restraints. Which of the following interventions should the healthcare professional include in the plan?

• A. Document the client's status every 60 minutes.
• B. Provide a staff member to stay with the client continuously.
• C. Measure vital signs every 4 hours.
• D. Obtain a prescription for the restraints every 8 hours.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client has a prescription for mechanical restraints, it is essential to provide continuous monitoring for their safety and to observe any behavioral changes. Having a staff member stay with the client continuously allows for immediate intervention if needed. Documenting the client's status every 60 minutes (Choice A) may not provide real-time monitoring, which is crucial in this situation. While measuring vital signs every 4 hours (Choice C) is important, continuous observation takes precedence in this scenario. Obtaining a prescription for the restraints every 8 hours (Choice D) is not a necessary intervention once the initial prescription is in place.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who has hypokalemia. Which of the following clinical findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Hyperactive reflexes.
• B. Strong, bounding pulse.
• C. Decreased bowel sounds.
• D. Increased deep tendon reflexes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decreased bowel sounds. In hypokalemia, decreased bowel sounds are common due to slowed peristalsis. Hyperactive reflexes (choice A) and increased deep tendon reflexes (choice D) are more indicative of hyperkalemia. A strong, bounding pulse (choice B) is not typically associated with hypokalemia.

4. A nurse is planning care for a school-age child who is 4 hr postoperative following perforated appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Offer small amounts of clear liquids 6 hr following surgery.
• B. Give cromolyn nebulizer solution every 6 hr.
• C. Apply a warm compress to the operative site every 4 hr.
• D. Administer analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hr.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Administering analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hours is crucial to ensure adequate pain control in the immediate postoperative period. Choice A is incorrect because clear liquids are typically initiated gradually and advanced as tolerated but not specifically at 6 hours post-surgery. Choice B is incorrect as cromolyn nebulizer solution is not indicated for postoperative pain management in this scenario. Choice C is incorrect as applying a warm compress may not be appropriate for the operative site after appendicitis surgery and can potentially increase the risk of infection.

5. A client who had a vaginal delivery 4 hours ago has a fourth-degree perineal laceration. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?

• A. Encourage ambulation
• B. Apply ice packs
• C. Restrict the client's fluid intake
• D. Administer stool softeners

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: Applying ice packs is the most appropriate intervention for a client with a fourth-degree perineal laceration. Ice packs help reduce swelling and promote comfort, aiding in the healing process. Choice A, encouraging ambulation, may not be suitable immediately after a fourth-degree laceration due to the need for rest and proper wound care. Choice C, restricting fluid intake, is not indicated and can lead to dehydration, which is not beneficial for wound healing. Choice D, administering stool softeners, may be necessary to prevent constipation and straining, but it is not the priority intervention at this time.

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