Nursing Elites

1. Which symptom would indicate a complication after a subdural hematoma?

• A. Increased appetite
• B. Decreased level of consciousness
• C. High-pitched cry
• D. Bulging posterior fontanelle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A bulging posterior fontanelle is a sign of increased intracranial pressure in infants, not a common symptom after a subdural hematoma. In the context of a subdural hematoma, a decreased level of consciousness is more indicative of a complication as it can be a sign of worsening brain function due to increased pressure on the brain from the collection of blood in the subdural space. Increased appetite and high-pitched cry are not typically associated with complications of a subdural hematoma.

2. A nurse is collecting data from a school-age child who has sustained a skull fracture. Which of the following is a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure?

• A. Nausea
• B. Confusion about own name
• C. Rapid pulse
• D. Vomiting

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Confusion, especially about one's own name, is a sign of increased intracranial pressure and should be addressed. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, but confusion about personal information is a more specific and critical indication that requires immediate attention. Rapid pulse may be a possible response to increased intracranial pressure, but it is not as specific as confusion about own name in this scenario.

3. A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client with dementia. Which of the following findings should the nurse address first?

• A. Psychosocial stressors
• B. Restlessness and agitation
• C. Frequent wandering at night
• D. Urinary incontinence

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In clients with dementia, restlessness and agitation are important symptoms that the nurse should address first. These symptoms can indicate underlying issues such as pain, discomfort, or unmet needs, and addressing them promptly can prevent complications. Psychosocial stressors may contribute to the client's condition but should not be the initial priority. Frequent wandering at night and urinary incontinence are also common in dementia but do not pose immediate risks compared to restlessness and agitation.

4. What is an important consideration in managing a patient with heart failure?

• A. Monitor daily weight
• B. Provide oxygen therapy
• C. Encourage low-sodium diet
• D. Monitor for signs of fluid overload

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important consideration in managing a patient with heart failure is to monitor daily weight. This allows healthcare providers to assess fluid retention, adjust medications based on weight changes, and detect early signs of worsening heart failure. While oxygen therapy may be necessary in acute situations, it is not a routine management strategy for stable heart failure patients. Encouraging a low-sodium diet is important to manage fluid retention, but daily weight monitoring is a more direct measure of fluid status. Monitoring for signs of fluid overload is essential, but monitoring daily weight is a proactive approach to detect fluid accumulation before overt symptoms appear.

5. A client with a chest tube is post-op. What is the priority nursing action?

• A. Clamp the chest tube every 2 hours
• B. Check for air leaks and proper functioning of the chest tube
• C. Encourage deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours
• D. Encourage frequent coughing to clear secretions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to check for air leaks and ensure the proper functioning of the chest tube. This action is crucial post-op to prevent complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours (Choice A) is incorrect as it can lead to a buildup of pressure within the chest, risking complications. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours (Choice C) is important for respiratory hygiene but not the priority over ensuring the chest tube's proper function. Encouraging frequent coughing to clear secretions (Choice D) is not the priority when assessing a chest tube post-op; ensuring the chest tube's integrity and function take precedence.

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