Nursing Elites

1. You see a sign over Mary Jones' bed when you arrive at 7 am to begin your day shift. The sign says, 'NPO'. Ms. Jones is on a regular diet. The patient asks for milk and some crackers. You _____________.

• A. can give her the milk but not the crackers
• B. can give her both the milk and the crackers
• C. can give her the crackers but not the milk
• D. cannot give her anything to eat or drink

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is that you cannot give her anything to eat or drink. 'NPO' is the standard abbreviation for 'nothing by mouth,' indicating that the patient should not consume any food or liquids. It is crucial to adhere to this restriction to prevent any potential harm or complications in the patient's condition. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because 'NPO' clearly specifies that the patient should not have anything to eat or drink, including milk and crackers. Providing these items could lead to adverse effects, so it is essential to follow the 'NPO' directive strictly.

2. A nursing care plan states, 'Assist the patient to the bedside commode PRN.' When will this patient get this assistance to the commode?

• A. Whenever needed
• B. At bedtime
• C. During the night
• D. During the day

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Whenever needed.' The abbreviation 'PRN' stands for 'pro re nata,' which translates to 'as needed' or 'whenever necessary.' This means that the patient will receive assistance to the commode whenever they require it, based on their individual needs and condition. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because 'PRN' does not specify a specific time like bedtime, during the night, or during the day; instead, it indicates assistance based on the patient's needs.

3. A client is being instructed on how to use crutches. Which of the following information should be included in the teaching?

• A. Place the majority of body weight on the axilla.
• B. Dry crutch tips with a paper towel if they become wet.
• C. Use the crutches for support to lift both feet simultaneously when ascending stairs.
• D. Both B and C.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When instructing a client on how to use crutches for ambulation, it is important to emphasize keeping the crutch tips dry to prevent slipping while bearing weight on them. Moisture on the crutch tips can lead to accidents. Therefore, the correct answer is to dry the crutch tips with a paper towel if they become wet. Choice A, placing the majority of body weight on the axilla, is incorrect as the weight should be borne through the hands, not the axilla, to avoid nerve damage. Choice C, using the crutches to lift both feet simultaneously when ascending stairs, is incorrect as the client should ascend stairs by placing weight on the unaffected leg first, followed by the crutches and then the affected leg. This method provides stability and safety during stair climbing.

4. While explaining an illness to a 10-year-old, what should the nurse keep in mind about the cognitive development at this age?

• A. They are able to make simple associations of ideas
• B. They are able to think logically in organizing facts
• C. Interpretation of events originates from their own perspective
• D. Conclusions are based on previous experiences

Correct answer: B

Rationale: At the age of 10, children are in the concrete operations stage according to Piaget. They are capable of mature thought when allowed to manipulate and organize objects. This means they can think logically, organize facts, and understand cause-and-effect relationships. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. While simple associations of ideas may occur, the key cognitive ability at this stage is the capacity for logical thought and organization of information. Interpretation of events from their own perspective is more characteristic of younger children, and conclusions based on previous experiences are more aligned with older children or adults.

5. You are working the 4 pm to 12 midnight evening shift. You are taking care of a group of patients. The supervising RN identifies 5 patients who get a medication at 'HS'. When will you give this medication?

• A. After the dinner meal
• B. Whenever requested
• C. At the patient's bedtime
• D. Before the end of the shift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to give the medication at the patient's bedtime. 'HS' is a medical abbreviation that stands for 'hora somni,' which translates to 'at bedtime' or 'at the hours of sleep.' This timing ensures that the medication is administered appropriately to align with the patient's sleep schedule and maximize its effectiveness. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because giving the medication after dinner, whenever requested, or before the end of the shift may not coincide with the intended purpose of the medication, potentially affecting its efficacy and patient outcomes.

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