Nursing Elites

1. Which of these statements from the caregiver of a palliative care client indicates a proper understanding?

• A. This treatment plan usually indicates a prognosis of less than 6 months.
• B. We will need to stay in the hospital to receive this level of care.
• C. The main therapeutic goals are comfort and better quality of life.
• D. The medications to treat the underlying disease will be continued.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'The main therapeutic goals are comfort and better quality of life.' This statement reflects a proper understanding of palliative care, which focuses on improving the patient's quality of life and providing comfort. It does not necessarily mean a prognosis of less than 6 months or require hospitalization. Choice A is incorrect because palliative care can be provided regardless of the prognosis. Choice B is wrong as palliative care can be administered in various settings, not just hospitals. Choice D is inaccurate as palliative care aims to improve symptoms and quality of life, so medications may be adjusted but not necessarily stopped.

2. In which situation is the nurse upholding the ethical principle of fidelity?

• A. Providing complete information regarding treatment options to a client with newly diagnosed cancer
• B. Allowing a client to decide when to receive daily hygiene care
• C. Inserting a 19-gauge intravenous catheter into a client requiring a blood transfusion
• D. Contacting the health care provider about the client's request to incorporate complementary therapies for pain into the treatment plan

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Fidelity is the ethical principle of keeping promises made to clients, families, and other healthcare professionals. Contacting the health care provider about the client's request to incorporate complementary therapies for pain into the treatment plan exemplifies fidelity. By advocating for the client's preferences and ensuring their requests are addressed, the nurse demonstrates a commitment to fulfilling promises made to the client. Allowing a client to decide when to receive daily hygiene care relates to respecting autonomy, not fidelity. Inserting a 19-gauge intravenous catheter into a client needing a blood transfusion aligns with beneficence, as it involves taking action to provide necessary treatment. Providing complete information to a client with newly diagnosed cancer about treatment options reflects justice, promoting fairness and equity in healthcare by offering equal access to information and treatment choices.

3. Which of the following isoenzymes is elevated in a client who has had a myocardial infarction?

• A. CPK-BB
• B. CPK-MM
• C. CPK-MB
• D. CPK-MI

Correct answer: C

Rationale: CPK-MB is the correct answer as it is elevated in clients who have had a myocardial infarction. CPK-BB is elevated in clients with brain damage, and CPK-MM is elevated in clients with skeletal muscle damage. CPK-MI, mentioned in the rationale, does not exist, making it an incorrect choice.

4. Which action exemplifies the use of evidence-based practice in the delivery of client care?

• A. Advising a client to agree to the treatment recommended by their healthcare provider
• B. Taking a rectal temperature from a client for whom bleeding precautions have been instituted
• C. Donning sterile gloves to change an abdominal wound dressing
• D. Encouraging a client to take an herbal substance to treat their insomnia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Evidence-based practice is an approach to client care where the nurse integrates the client’s preferences, clinical expertise, and the best research evidence to deliver quality care. Donning sterile gloves to change an abdominal wound dressing exemplifies evidence-based practice as it prevents the entrance of harmful bacteria into the wound, following best practice guidelines. The other options do not align with evidence-based practice. Advising a client to agree to a treatment does not involve integrating research evidence. Taking herbal substances may not be supported by strong research evidence and can pose risks. Additionally, rectal temperature-taking in a client with bleeding precautions can increase the risk of injury to the rectal mucosa, not aligning with best practices in care delivery.

5. The advanced directive in a client's chart is dated August 12, 1998. The client's daughter produces a Power of Attorney for Health Care, dated 2003, which contains different care directions. What should the nurse do?

• A. Follow the 1998 version because it's part of the legal chart.
• B. Follow the 1998 version because the physician's code order is based on it.
• C. Follow the 2003 version, place it in the chart, and communicate the update appropriately.
• D. Follow neither until clarified by the unit manager.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The document dated 2003 supersedes the previous version and should be used as a basis for care directions. The nurse should follow the 2003 version, place it in the chart, and communicate the update appropriately to ensure that the most current care directions are followed. Choices A and B are incorrect because the 1998 version is now outdated, and the nurse should not rely on it for care decisions. Choice D is incorrect because the nurse should not delay following the updated document, and seeking clarification from the unit manager can lead to avoidable delays in care.

Similar Questions