Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following syndromes associated with incomplete lesions of the spinal cord results from damage to one-half of the spinal cord?

• A. Brown-S�quard syndrome
• B. posterior cord syndrome
• C. central cord syndrome
• D. cauda equina syndrome

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Brown-S�quard syndrome is indeed associated with incomplete lesions of the spinal cord, and it specifically results from damage to one-half of the spinal cord. This syndrome manifests as ipsilateral motor paralysis, ipsilateral loss of vibration and proprioception, and contralateral loss of pain and temperature sensation. Posterior cord syndrome mainly involves the loss of proprioception and vibratory sense, while sparing motor function and pain sensation. Central cord syndrome typically presents with more weakness in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities due to central spinal cord damage. Cauda equina syndrome affects the nerve roots at the level of the conus medullaris, leading to symptoms like lower extremity weakness, numbness, and bowel/bladder dysfunction.

2. In an obstetrical emergency, which of the following actions should the nurse perform first after the baby delivers?

• A. Place extra padding under the mother to absorb blood from the delivery.
• B. Cut the umbilical cord using sterile scissors.
• C. Suction the baby's mouth and nose.
• D. Wrap the baby in a clean blanket to preserve warmth.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In an obstetrical emergency, the immediate priority after the baby delivers is to clear the baby's airway by suctioning the mouth and nose to ensure effective breathing. This action helps prevent potential complications like meconium aspiration. Cutting the umbilical cord, wrapping the baby in a blanket, or placing extra padding under the mother can follow once the baby's airway is clear. Therefore, suctioning the baby's mouth and nose is the most critical and time-sensitive intervention in this scenario. Placing extra padding under the mother is not the immediate priority as ensuring the baby's airway is clear. Cutting the umbilical cord and wrapping the baby in a clean blanket are important but can wait until after ensuring the baby's breathing is not compromised.

3. How often should physical restraints be released?

• A. Every 2 hours
• B. Between 1 and 3 hours
• C. Every 30 minutes
• D. At least every 4 hours

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to release physical restraints every 2 hours. Releasing restraints every 2 hours helps prevent complications associated with prolonged immobilization. Releasing restraints every 30 minutes (choice C) may be too frequent and disruptive to the client's care. Releasing restraints between 1 and 3 hours (choice B) introduces variability that could lead to inconsistencies in care. Releasing restraints at least every 4 hours (choice D) does not adhere to the recommended frequency of every 2 hours.

4. A 51-year-old client with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig disease) is admitted to the hospital because his condition is deteriorating. The client tells the nurse that he wants a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order. The nurse should provide the client with which information?

• A. Oral consent is not sufficient, and the client's request will be honored by all healthcare providers.
• B. Consent must be obtained from the family.
• C. The DNR request should be discussed with the healthcare provider, who will write the order.
• D. The healthcare provider makes the final decision about a DNR request.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a client requests a DNR order, the nurse should contact the healthcare provider so that the provider may discuss the request with the client. A DNR order should be written, not verbal, following agency and state guidelines. Therefore, the correct answer is that the DNR request should be discussed with the healthcare provider, who will write the order. Option A is incorrect as oral consent is not sufficient for a DNR order. Option B is incorrect because the client, not the family, has the authority to request a DNR order. Option D is incorrect because the healthcare provider discusses the request with the client but does not make the final decision.

5. While undergoing fetal heart monitoring, a pregnant Native-American woman requests that a medicine woman be present in the examination room. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. "I will assist you in arranging to have a medicine woman present."?
• B. "We do not allow medicine women in exam rooms."?
• C. "That does not make any difference in the outcome."?
• D. "It is old-fashioned to believe in that."?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is to show cultural awareness and acceptance by offering to assist in arranging for the medicine woman to be present. This demonstrates respect for the client's beliefs and preferences. Choice B is inappropriate as it dismisses the client's request without considering its cultural significance. Choice C is dismissive and does not acknowledge the client's values. Choice D is disrespectful and judgmental, undermining the client's beliefs. Therefore, the only appropriate and professional response is to support the client's request and offer assistance in accommodating it.

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