Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following patients is at greatest risk for developing pressure ulcers?

• A. An alert chronic arthritic patient treated with steroids and aspirin
• B. An 88-year-old incontinent patient with gastric cancer who is confined to bed at home
• C. An apathetic 63-year-old COPD patient receiving nasal oxygen via cannula
• D. A confused 78-year-old patient with congestive heart failure (CHF) who requires assistance to get out of bed

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. An elderly patient who is incontinent, bedridden, and suffering from a serious illness like gastric cancer is at the highest risk for developing pressure ulcers. Being bedridden and incontinent increases the pressure on certain areas of the body, leading to tissue damage and the development of pressure ulcers. Additionally, the patient's age and underlying health condition further contribute to their risk. It is crucial to identify and address such risk factors promptly to prevent the occurrence of pressure ulcers in vulnerable patients.

2. A male patient who had surgery 2 days ago for head and neck cancer is about to make his first attempt to ambulate outside his room. The nurse notes that he is steady on his feet and that his vision was unaffected by the surgery. Which of the following nursing interventions would be appropriate?

• A. Encourage the patient to walk in the hall alone
• B. Discourage the patient from walking in the hall for a few more days
• C. Accompany the patient for his walk
• D. Consult a physical therapist before allowing the patient to ambulate

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Accompanying the patient for his walk is the appropriate nursing intervention in this scenario to ensure his safety during his first ambulation. This allows the nurse to provide immediate assistance if needed and ensures the patient's well-being during this critical postoperative period.

3. What is the primary goal of performing a bed bath?

• A. To cleanse, refresh, and provide comfort to the client who must remain in bed
• B. To expose the necessary parts of the body
• C. To develop skills in bed bath
• D. To check the body temperature of the client in bed

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal of performing a bed bath is to cleanse, refresh, and provide comfort to clients who are unable to leave their bed. This helps maintain their hygiene, promotes skin health, and enhances their overall well-being. Choice B is incorrect as the primary purpose is not to expose body parts but to provide hygiene and comfort. Choice C is incorrect as the main goal is client care, not skill development. Choice D is incorrect as checking body temperature is not the main purpose of a bed bath.

4. The physician orders a maintenance dose of 5,000 units of subcutaneous heparin (an anticoagulant) daily. Nursing responsibilities for Mrs. Mitchell now include:

• A. Reviewing daily activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time.
• B. Reporting an APTT above 45 seconds to the physician
• C. Assessing the patient for signs and symptoms of frank and occult bleeding
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. When a physician orders a maintenance dose of subcutaneous heparin, nursing responsibilities include reviewing daily activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time to monitor the patient's coagulation status, reporting an APTT above 45 seconds to the physician as it may indicate a risk of bleeding, and assessing the patient for signs and symptoms of frank and occult bleeding, which are potential adverse effects of anticoagulant therapy. Therefore, all the options listed are essential nursing responsibilities when a patient is on subcutaneous heparin therapy.

5. A 38-year-old patient’s vital signs at 8 a.m. are axillary temperature 99.6°F (37.6°C); pulse rate 88; respiratory rate 30. Which findings should be reported?

• A. Respiratory rate only
• B. Temperature only
• C. Pulse rate and temperature
• D. Temperature and respiratory rate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Both an elevated temperature and an increased respiratory rate are abnormal vital signs that could indicate an underlying health issue. Reporting both of these findings is crucial to ensure appropriate evaluation and intervention if needed.

Similar Questions