Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following viruses is most likely to be acquired through casual contact with an infected individual?

• A. influenza virus
• B. herpes virus
• C. cytomegalovirus (CMV)
• D. human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is influenza virus. Influenza virus is most likely to be acquired through casual contact with an infected individual as it is transmitted through respiratory droplets. Herpes virus is primarily transmitted by direct contact, such as skin-to-skin contact, making it less likely to be acquired through casual contact. HIV is mainly transmitted through blood and body fluids like semen and vaginal fluids, not through casual contact. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an opportunistic infection commonly affecting immunocompromised individuals and is usually transmitted through close personal contact, not casual contact.

2. Which is an example of a sentinel event?

• A. The terminally ill client is referred to hospice and dies 3 months later.
• B. A client receives an unordered mammogram which reveals a small cyst.
• C. A client with a laceration to the knee requiring 4 sutures falls when getting up unassisted after being instructed to remain in bed.
• D. A client scheduled for knee replacement surgery had an above-the-knee amputation performed.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Yes! A sentinel event is an unexpected occurrence causing death or serious injury. In this case, a client who was scheduled for knee replacement surgery but had an above-the-knee amputation performed instead represents a sentinel event as it resulted in serious harm that was not intended. The other choices do not meet the criteria for a sentinel event. Choice A describes a natural progression for a terminally ill client, choice B shows an incidental finding from a test, and choice C involves a preventable fall leading to an injury but not a sentinel event.

3. The nurse observes a nursing assistant performing AM care for a client with a new leg cast. Which action by the assistant will the nurse intervene?

• A. Lifting the affected leg with the palms of the hand
• B. Covering the affected leg with a blanket to avoid chills
• C. Placing plastic over the groin prior to bathing
• D. Elevating the cased leg on two pillows

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is covering the affected leg with a blanket to avoid chills. Covering the leg with a blanket can prevent the evaporation of heat from the new cast, which can lead to skin irritation or discomfort. Lifting the affected leg with the palms of the hand is appropriate as it helps in providing support and prevents unnecessary pressure on the cast. Placing plastic over the groin prior to bathing is also acceptable to protect the area from getting wet. Elevating the cased leg on two pillows helps reduce swelling and promotes circulation, making it a suitable action.

4. During a screening on a patient with a recent cast on the left lower extremity, which of the following statements should the nurse be most concerned about?

• A. The patient reports, "I didn't keep my extremity elevated as the doctor asked me to."?
• B. The patient reports, "I have been having pain in my left calf."?
• C. The patient reports, "My left leg has really been itching."?
• D. The patient reports, "The arthritis in my wrists is flaring up when I put weight on my crutches."?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because pain in the left calf could indicate a potential neurovascular complication related to the casted extremity. It could suggest issues such as compartment syndrome or impaired circulation. Option A is not as concerning since not elevating the extremity may lead to swelling but is not an immediate concern. Option C indicates itching, which is common with casts and not as concerning as potential neurovascular issues. Option D, regarding arthritis in the wrists, is unrelated to the lower extremity issue being screened for.

5. A young female teenager describes a brutal assault and rape to the nurse on duty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Check with the case manager on duty about possible police intervention.
• B. Provide an environment of concern and emotional stabilization.
• C. Clean the patient's wounds with normal saline and gauze.
• D. Refer the patient to a counselor specializing in trauma.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a situation where a patient describes a brutal assault and rape, the first priority should be to provide emotional support and create a safe and supportive environment. This helps the patient feel secure and cared for, which is crucial for their well-being at that moment. Checking with the case manager about police intervention should come after ensuring the patient's immediate emotional needs are addressed. Cleaning the patient's wounds, though important, can be secondary to providing emotional stabilization. Referring the patient to a counselor specializing in trauma is also crucial for long-term support, but the immediate focus should be on providing emotional support and stability.

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