Nursing Elites

1. Which sign might a healthcare professional observe in a client with a high ammonia level?

• A. coma
• B. edema
• C. hypoxia
• D. polyuria

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A high ammonia level can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which includes symptoms like confusion, disorientation, and can progress to coma. Coma is a severe condition of unconsciousness. Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in body tissues, not typically associated with high ammonia levels. Hypoxia is a condition of inadequate oxygen supply to tissues and organs, not directly related to high ammonia levels. Polyuria is excessive urination, which is not a typical sign of high ammonia levels.

2. 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 Choices A and B are incorrect because the 1998 version is now outdated, and the nurse should not rely on it for care decisions.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.

3. A case manager is reviewing notations made in clients' records. Which note indicates an unexpected outcome and the need for immediate follow-up?

• A. A client who exhibits signs of increased intracranial pressure after a craniotomy.
• B. A client who has sustained a stroke and dresses herself.
• C. A client with a spinal cord injury transfers himself from a bed to a wheelchair.
• D. Normal neurological findings are noted in a client with a cerebral aneurysm.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A case manager is responsible for coordinating a client's care and monitoring for unexpected outcomes. The situation that indicates an unexpected outcome and the need for immediate follow-up is when a client exhibits signs of increased intracranial pressure after a craniotomy. This indicates a deteriorating condition that requires urgent intervention. Choices B, C, and D describe expected outcomes or normal findings related to specific conditions, which do not demand immediate follow-up.

4. All of the following clients are in need of an emergency assessment except:

• A. a bleeding client who has an injury from falling debris.
• B. an unresponsive client.
• C. a client with an old injury.
• D. a pregnant woman with imminent delivery.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'a client with an old injury.' Emergency assessments are required for immediate and life-threatening situations. Clients A, B, and D are in need of emergency assessments due to their critical conditions. Choice C, a client with an old injury, does not require an emergency assessment as it is not an acute or life-threatening situation. While the client with an old injury may still need medical attention, it does not necessitate an emergency assessment as the condition is not currently life-threatening or in need of immediate intervention.

5. For a client requiring total oral care, it is important for the nurse to:

• A. assemble all equipment, assist the client to a semi-Fowler's position, and place a towel on his chest.
• B. place the client in Fowler's position, prepare the equipment, and instruct the client what to do.
• C. assemble all equipment, place the client in a side-lying position, and place a towel under his chin.
• D. use gloves and clean the client's mouth, including the tongue.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To provide total oral care to a client, the nurse should first assemble all necessary equipment. Placing the client in a side-lying position helps fluids to easily flow out or pool in the side of the mouth for suctioning, thus preventing aspiration. Additionally, placing a towel under the client's chin and a curved basin against the chin helps to maintain cleanliness during the procedure. Choice A is incorrect because the client should be placed in a side-lying position, not a semi-Fowler's position which is used for respiratory issues. Choice B is incorrect as it does not emphasize the importance of proper positioning for effective oral care. Choice D is incorrect as it oversimplifies the procedure by focusing only on cleaning the mouth without considering the importance of positioning and preparation.

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