Nursing Elites

1. While providing oral care for a client who is unconscious, the nurse positions the client laterally and uses a basin to collect secretions. Which intervention is best for the nurse to implement?

• A. Swab the oral cavity with a washcloth
• B. Use oral swabs with normal saline
• C. Provide a Yankauer tip for oral suction
• D. Support the head with a small pillow

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Using oral swabs with normal saline is the best intervention in this scenario as it effectively cleans the oral cavity without causing irritation or dryness, which is crucial for an unconscious client. Swabbing the oral cavity with a washcloth may not provide thorough cleaning, and it can potentially cause irritation. Providing a Yankauer tip for oral suction is not necessary unless there are excessive secretions that need to be suctioned. Supporting the head with a small pillow, although important for comfort, is not directly related to oral care in an unconscious client.

2. Which electrolyte imbalance is most commonly associated with seizures?

• A. Hyponatremia
• B. Hypercalcemia
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hypokalemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyponatremia. Hyponatremia, characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, can lead to cerebral edema and seizures due to water shifting into brain cells. Hypercalcemia (choice B) does not commonly cause seizures but can result in muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias. Hyperkalemia (choice C) may lead to muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias, but it is less frequently associated with seizures. Hypokalemia (choice D) is linked to muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias but is not typically related to seizures.

3. The nurse is assigned to administer medications in a long-term care facility. A disoriented resident has no identification band or picture. What is the best nursing action for the nurse to take prior to administering the medications to this resident?

• A. Ask a regular staff member to confirm the resident's identity
• B. Hold the medication until a family member can confirm identity
• C. Re-orient the resident to name, place, and situation
• D. Confirm the room and bed numbers with those on the medication record

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a long-term care facility, when a disoriented resident lacks identification, it is crucial to confirm the resident's identity before administering medication to prevent errors. Asking a regular staff member who is familiar with the resident to confirm their identity is the best course of action. This ensures accuracy and safety in medication administration. Holding the medication until a family member can confirm the identity could delay necessary treatment. Re-orienting the resident is important for their well-being but does not address the immediate medication safety concern. Confirming room and bed numbers, though important for administration logistics, does not verify the resident's identity.

4. When caring for a client with colostomy, which topical skin preparation should the PN apply around the stoma?

• A. Antiseptic cream
• B. Petroleum jelly
• C. Cornstarch
• D. Stomadhesive

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Stomadhesive.' Stomadhesive is a protective barrier used around the stoma to prevent skin irritation and to secure the colostomy bag. This preparation helps to maintain skin integrity and prevent complications such as skin breakdown. Antiseptic cream (Choice A) is not typically used around the stoma as it can irritate the skin. Petroleum jelly (Choice B) is also not recommended as it can interfere with the adhesive properties of the colostomy appliance. Cornstarch (Choice C) is not suitable for application around the stoma as it can promote moisture and lead to skin irritation.

5. Which condition is commonly screened for in newborns using the Guthrie test?

• A. Phenylketonuria (PKU)
• B. Cystic fibrosis
• C. Down syndrome
• D. Sickle cell anemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The Guthrie test is specifically designed to screen newborns for phenylketonuria (PKU), a metabolic disorder that can lead to intellectual disability if left untreated. Phenylketonuria is caused by the deficiency of an enzyme required to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. Screening for PKU in newborns is crucial as early diagnosis and intervention can prevent the severe consequences associated with the condition. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as the Guthrie test is not used to screen for cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, or sickle cell anemia.

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