Nursing Elites

1. What is a true statement about caring for a client with a nasogastric (NG) tube?

• A. The NG tube should be flushed with 30 mL of water every 4 hours.
• B. The client should be positioned in a supine position.
• C. The NG tube should be advanced 5 cm if resistance is met.
• D. The client's nasal mucosa should be inspected daily.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Flushing the NG tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours is crucial to maintain its patency and prevent blockages. This routine ensures the tube stays clear and functional, enabling proper delivery of medications and nutrition to the client. Regular flushing also helps prevent residue buildup or clogs within the tube, reducing risks like aspiration or inaccurate medication dosing.

2. A client has major fecal incontinence and reports irritation in the perianal area. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Apply a fecal collection system
• B. Apply a barrier cream
• C. Cleanse and dry the area
• D. Check the client's perineum

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client with major fecal incontinence reports irritation in the perianal area, the nurse's initial action should be to assess the client's perineum to gather more information. By checking the perineum, the nurse can identify the extent and nature of the irritation, allowing for appropriate interventions to be initiated. This assessment is crucial in developing a comprehensive care plan and addressing the client's immediate needs effectively. Applying the nursing process priority-setting framework helps in planning care and prioritizing nursing actions, making assessment the initial step in this scenario. Applying a fecal collection system (choice A) would be premature without assessing the perineal area first. Similarly, applying a barrier cream (choice B) or cleansing and drying the area (choice C) should follow the assessment to ensure appropriate interventions are chosen based on the assessment findings.

3. In an emergency department, a provider is assessing a client with an acute head injury following a motor-vehicle crash. Which of the following findings should be prioritized?

• A. A Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13
• B. Clear fluid leaking from the nose
• C. Nausea and vomiting
• D. Anisocoria

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority finding is the clear fluid leaking from the nose, which could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid leak and potential brain injury. This requires immediate attention to assess for possible cerebrospinal fluid leak, which is a serious complication of head trauma and needs prompt intervention to prevent further complications. While a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13 may indicate a mild alteration in consciousness, it is not as urgent as assessing for a cerebrospinal fluid leak. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms after head injuries but do not take precedence over assessing for a potential cerebrospinal fluid leak. Anisocoria (unequal pupils) is also important to note but is not as urgent as identifying a possible cerebrospinal fluid leak in this scenario.

4. A client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is receiving teaching from a healthcare provider. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take my insulin only if my blood sugar is above 200 mg/dL.
• B. I will eat a snack before exercising.
• C. I will avoid all carbohydrates.
• D. I will check my blood sugar once a week.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Eating a snack before exercising is crucial for managing blood sugar levels and preventing hypoglycemia in individuals with diabetes. Exercising on an empty stomach can lead to low blood sugar levels, but consuming a snack before physical activity helps stabilize blood sugar and provides energy for the body. This proactive approach demonstrates the client's understanding of the importance of managing blood sugar levels during physical activity.

5. When providing teaching to a client with a new prescription for digoxin, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take your pulse before taking the medication.
• B. Take the medication with an antacid.
• C. Double the dose if you miss one.
• D. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with a new prescription for digoxin is to take their pulse before taking the medication. Digoxin can lead to bradycardia as a side effect, and monitoring the pulse helps in assessing the heart rate prior to medication administration. This precaution allows for the identification of any significant changes in heart rate that may require medical attention.

Similar Questions