Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following signs and symptoms would the nurse expect to find when assessing an Asian patient for postoperative pain following abdominal surgery?

• A. Decreased blood pressure and heart rate and shallow respirations
• B. Quiet crying
• C. Immobility, diaphoresis, and avoidance of deep breathing or coughing
• D. Changing position every 2 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Immobility, diaphoresis, and avoidance of deep breathing or coughing are common signs of pain.

2. A nurse is talking with another nurse on the unit and smells alcohol on her breath. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Confront the nurse about the suspected alcohol use.
• B. Inform another nurse on the unit about the suspected alcohol use.
• C. Ask the nurse to finish administering medications and then go home.
• D. Notify the nursing manager about the suspected alcohol use.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Confronting the nurse about the suspected alcohol use is the most appropriate action in this situation. It is essential to address the issue directly and express concerns about patient safety and potential impairment. By addressing the situation promptly, the nurse can potentially prevent harm and provide support to the colleague in need.

3. Palpating the midclavicular line is the correct technique for assessing

• A. Baseline vital signs
• B. Systolic blood pressure
• C. Respiratory rate
• D. Apical pulse

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Palpating the midclavicular line is the correct technique for assessing the apical pulse. The apical pulse is located at the point of maximal impulse (PMI), which is typically at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line. This technique allows healthcare providers to accurately assess the heart rate and rhythm by listening to the heart sounds directly at this point.

4. When creating a plan of care for a newly admitted client with obsessive-compulsive disorder, which of the following interventions should the nurse take?

• A. Allow the client enough time to perform rituals
• B. Give the client autonomy in scheduling activities
• C. Discourage the client from exploring irrational fears
• D. Provide negative reinforcement for ritualistic behaviors

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder often feel compelled to perform rituals to alleviate anxiety. Allowing the client enough time to perform these rituals can help reduce their anxiety levels and promote a sense of control. Providing autonomy in scheduling activities can also empower the client and enhance their sense of independence. Discouraging exploration of irrational fears may increase anxiety and worsen symptoms. Negative reinforcement for ritualistic behaviors is not recommended as it can be counterproductive and reinforce the behavior.

5. After a walk-in client enters the clinic with a chief complaint of abdominal pain and diarrhea, the nurse takes the client’s vital signs. What phase of the nursing process is being implemented by the nurse?

• A. Assessment
• B. Diagnosis
• C. Planning
• D. Implementation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse is performing the assessment phase of the nursing process. Assessment involves collecting data, which includes obtaining vital signs, to identify the client's health status and needs. This step is crucial for the nurse to gather information that will guide further decision-making in the nursing process. Choice B, 'Diagnosis,' would involve analyzing the collected data to identify the client's health problems. Choice C, 'Planning,' would be developing a plan of care based on the assessment findings. Choice D, 'Implementation,' is the phase where the nurse carries out the plan of care developed during the planning phase.

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