MED-SURG HESI COMPILATION

The nurse is counseling a healthy 30-year-old female client regarding osteoporosis prevention. Which activity would be most beneficial in achieving the client's goal of osteoporosis prevention? A. Cross-country skiing B. Scuba diving C. Horseback riding D. Kayaking

Rationale: A Weight-bearing exercise is an important measure to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Of the activities listed, cross-country skiing (A) includes the most weight-bearing, whereas (B, C, and D) involve less.

The nurse is caring for a patient with COPD and pneumonia who has an order for arterial blood gases to be drawn. Which of the following is the minimum length of time the nurse should plan to hold pressure on the puncture site? A. 2 minutes B. 5 minutes C. 10 minutes D. 15 minutes

B. 5 minutes Following obtaining an arterial blood gas, the nurse should hold pressure on the puncture site for 5 minutes by the clock to be sure that bleeding has stopped. An artery is an elastic vessel under higher pressure than veins, and significant blood loss or hematoma formation could occur if the time is insufficient.

The nurse is completing an admission inter for a client with Parkinson disease. Which question will provide addition information about manifestations the client is likely to experience? A. "Have you ever experienced and paralysis of your arms or legs?" B. " Do you have frequent blackout spells?" C. "Have you ever been 'frozen' in one spot, unable to move?" D. "Do you have headaches, especially ones with throbbing pain?"

C. Parkinson clients frequently experience difficulty in initiating, maintaining, and performing motor activities. They may even experience being rooted, unable to move. (A, B, D) Does not typically occur in Parkinson.

When admitting a patient with the diagnosis of asthma exacerbation, the nurse will assess for which of the following potential triggers? (Select all that apply.) A. Exercise B. Allergies C. Emotional stress D. Decreased humidity

A,B,C Although the exact mechanism of asthma is unknown, there are several triggers that may precipitate an attack. These include allergens, exercise, air pollutants, respiratory infections, drug and food additives, psychologic factors, and GERD.

During admission of a patient diagnosed with non-small cell carcinoma of the lung, the nurse questions the patient related to a history of which of the following risk factors for this type of cancer? (Select all that apply.) A. Asbestos exposure B. Cigarette smoking C. Exposure to uranium D. Chronic interstitial fibrosis

A,B,C Non-small carcinoma is associated with cigarette smoking and exposure to environmental carcinogens, including asbestos and uranium. Chronic interstitial fibrosis is associated with the development of adenocarcinoma of the lung.

Which content about self-care should the nurse include in the teaching plan of a client who has genital herpes? (Select all that apply.) A. Encourage annual physical and Pap smear. B. Take antiviral medication as prescribed. C. Use condoms to avoid transmission to others. D. Warm sitz baths may relieve itching. E. Use Nystatin suppositories to control itching. F. Douche with weak vinegar solutions to decrease itching.

A,B,C,D. (E) is specific for Candida infections and (F) is used to treat Trichomonas.

When assessing a patient's sleep-rest pattern related to respiratory health, the nurse would ask if the patient: (Select all that apply.) A. Has trouble falling asleep B. Awakens abruptly during the night C. Sleeps more than 8 hours per night D. Has to sleep with the head elevated

A,B,D The patient with sleep apnea may have insomnia and/or abrupt awakenings. Patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart failure that may affect respiratory health) may need to sleep with the head elevated on several pillows (orthopnea). Sleeping more than 8 hours per night is not indicative of impaired respiratory health.

When admitting a 45-year-old female with a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, the nurse will assess the patient for which of the following risk factors? (Select all that apply.) A. Obesity B. Pneumonia C. Hypertension D. Cigarette smoking

A,C,D Research has demonstrated an increased risk of pulmonary embolism in women associated with obesity, heavy cigarette smoking, and hypertension. Other risk factors include immobilization, surgery within the last 3 months, stroke, history of DVT, and malignancy.

To promote airway clearance in a patient with pneumonia, the nurse instructs the patient to do which of the following? (Select all that apply.) A. Splint the chest when coughing B. Maintain a semi-Fowler's position C. Maintain adequate fluid intake D. Instruct patient to cough at end of exhalation

A,C,D The nurse should instruct the patient to splint the chest while coughing. This will reduce discomfort and allow for a more effective cough. Maintaining adequate fluid intake liquefies secretions, allowing easier expectoration. Coughing at the end of exhalation promotes a more effective cough. The patient should be positioned in an upright sitting position (high-Fowler's) with head slightly flexed.

A male client with arterial peripheral vascular disease (PVD) complains of pain in his feet. Which instruction should the nurse give to the UPA to quickly relieve the client's pain? A. Help the client to dangle his legs. B. Apply compression stockings. C. Assist with passive leg exercises. D. Ambulate three times daily.

A. A client who has arterial PVD may benefit from a dependent position which can be achieved by dangling by improving blood flow and relieving pain. (B) is indicated for venous insufficiency and (C) is indicated for bed rest. (D) is indicated to facilitate collateral circulation and may improve long term complaints of pain.

The nurse is observing an unlicensed assistive personnel (UPA) who is performing morning care for a bedfast client with Huntington disease. Which care measure is most important for the nurse to supervise? A. Oral care B. Bathing C. Foot care D. Catheter care

A. A client with Huntington disease experiences problems with motor skills such as swallowing and is at high risk for aspiration. (B, C, D) do not pose life-threatening consequences.

When caring for a patient who is 3 hours postoperative laryngectomy, the nurse's highest priority assessment would be: A. Airway patency B. Patient comfort C. Incisional drainage D. Blood pressure and heart rate

A. Airway patency Remember ABCs with prioritization. Airway patency is always the highest priority and is essential for a patient undergoing surgery surrounding the upper respiratory system.

The patient has an order for each of the following inhalers. Which of the following should the nurse offer to the patient at the onset of an asthma attack? A. Albuterol (Proventil) B. Beclomethasone (Beclovent) C. Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) D. Salmeterol (Serevent)

A. Albuterol (Proventil) Albuterol is a short-acting bronchodilator that should initially be given when the patient experiences an asthma attack.

A 45-year-old man with asthma is brought to the emergency department by automobile. He is short of breath and appears frightened. During the initial nursing assessment, which of the following clinical manifestations might be present as an early symptom during an exacerbation of asthma? A. Anxiety B. Cyanosis C. Hypercapnia D. Bradycardia

A. Anxiety An early symptom during an asthma attack is anxiety because he is acutely aware of the inability to get sufficient air to breathe. He will be hypoxic early on with decreased PaCO2 and increased pH as he is hyperventilating.

The nurse is performing hourly neurological check for a client with a head injury. Which new assessment finding warrants the most immediate intervention by the nurse? A. A unilateral pupil that is dilated and nonreactive to light. B. Client cries out when awakened by a verbal stimulus. C. Client demonstrates a loss of memory to the events leading up to the injury. D. Onset of nausea, headache, and vertigo.

A. Any changes in pupil size and reactivity is an indication of increasing ICP and should be reported immediately. (B) is normal for being awakened. (C & D) are common manifestations of head injury and less of an immediacy than (A).

A client diagnosed with angina pectoris complains of chest pain while ambulating in the hallway. Which action should the nurse implement first? A. Support the client to a sitting position. B. Ask the client to walk slowly back to the room. C. Administer a sublingual nitroglycerin tablet. D. Provide oxygen via nasal cannula.

A. Assist in safely repositioning and then administer (C & D). Then the client can be escorted back to the room via wheelchair or stretcher (B).

If a nurse is caring for an 80-year-old patient with a temperature of 100.4° F, crackles at the right lung base, pain with deep inspiration, and dyspnea, which of the following orders is the nurse's priority? A. Sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity B. Codeine 15 mg orally every 6 hours as needed C. Incentive spirometer every 2 hours while awake D. Amoxicillin (Amoxil) 500 mg orally 4 times a day

A. Sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity The patient presents with signs of a respiratory infection. To initiate the most effective therapy, the health care prescriber must know the pathogen causing the infection. Therefore, the sputum specimen is the nurse's priority. If the antibiotic is administered before the specimen is obtained, the results of the culture might not be as accurate and could impair the effectiveness of therapy. After the specimen is obtained, the nurse can administer codeine for coughing and begin the incentive spirometry to mobilize secretions and improve the patient's ability to expectorate the secretions.

In assessing an older client with dementia for sundowning syndrome, what assessment technique is best for the nurse to use? A. Observe for tiredness at the end of the day. B. Perform a neurologic exam and mental status exam. C. Monitor for medication side effects. D. Assess for decreased gross motor movement.

A. Sundowning syndrome is a pattern of agitated behavior in the evening, believed to be associated with tiredness at the end of the day combined with fewer orienting stimuli, such as activities and interactions. (B, C, & D) with not provide information about this syndrome.

A client with hypertension has been receiving ramipril (Altace) 5 mg PO daily for 2 weeks and is scheduled to receive a dose at 0900. At 0830 the client's blood pressure is 120/70. Which action should the nurse take? A. Administer the dose as prescribed. B. Hold the dose and contact the healthcare provider. C. Hold the dose and recheck the blood pressure in 1 hour. D. Check the healthcare provider's prescription to clarify the dose.

A. The BP is WNL and indicates that the medication is working. (B & C) would be indicated if the BP was low (systole below 100). (D) is not required because the dose is within manufacture's recommendations.

During assessment of a client in the intensive care unit, the nurse notes that the client's breath sounds are clear upon auscultation, but jugular vein distention and muffled heart sounds are present. Which intervention should the nurse implement? A. Prepare the client for a pericardial tap. B. Administer intravenous furosemide (Lasix). C. Assist the client to cough and deep breathe. D. Instruct the client to restrict oral fluid intake.

A. The client is exhibiting symptoms of cardiac tamponade that results in reduced cardiac output. Treatment is pericardial tap. (B) is not a treatment. (C) is not priority. (D) Fluids are frequently increased but this is not as priority as (A).

A client with cirrhosis states that his disease was cause by a blood transfusion. What information should the nurse obtain first to provide effective client teaching? A. The year the blood transfusion was received B. The amount of alcohol the client drinks C. How long the client has had cirrhosis D. The client's normal coping mechanisms

A. The nurse should first verify the clients explanation (A) since it may be accurate due to prior to 1990 blood was not screened for Hep C and hep C can cause cirrhosis. Not all cirrhosis is caused is caused by alcoholism (B) (C & D) provide useful but less relevant information.

The nurse is caring for a client with a chest tube to water seal drainage that was inserted 10 days ago because of a ruptured bullae and pneumothorax. Which finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider before the chest tube is removed? A. Tidal of water in the water seal chamber B. Bilateral muffled breath sounds at bases C. Temperature of 101 degrees F D. Absence of chest tube drainage for 2 days.

A. Tidal in the water seal chamber should be reported to the HPC to show that the chest tube is working properly. (B) may indicate hypoventilation from the chest tube and usually improves when the tube is removed. (C) indicates infection (D) is an expected finding.

A client is placed on a mechanical ventilator following a cerebral hemorrhage, and vecuronium bromide (Norcuron) 0.04 mg/kg every 12 hours IV is prescribed. What is the priority nursing diagnosis for this client? A. Impaired communication related to paralysis of skeletal muscles. B. Hight risk or infection related to increased ICP. C. Potential for injury related to impaired lung expansion. D. Social isolation related to inability to communicate.

A. To increase the client's tolerance of the endotracheal intubation and/or mechanical ventilation, a skeletal-muscle relaxant such as vecuronium is usually prescribed. (A) is a serious outcome because the client cannot communicate his/her needs. (D) is not as much of a priority. (B) infection is not related to ICP. (C) is incorrect because the ventilator will ensure that the lungs are expanded.

The nurse is caring for a patient with an acute exacerbation of asthma. Following initial treatment, which of the following findings indicates to the nurse that the patient's respiratory status is improving? A. Wheezing becomes louder B. Vesicular breath sounds decrease C. Aerosol bronchodilators stimulate coughing D. The cough remains nonproductive

A. Wheezing becomes louder The primary problem during an exacerbation of asthma is narrowing of the airway and subsequent diminished air exchange. As the airways begin to dilate, wheezing gets louder because of better air exchange.

A male client who has never smoked but has had COPD for the past 5 years is now being assessed for cancer of the lung. The nurse knows that he is most likely to develop which type of lung cancer? A. Adenocarcinoma B. Oat-cell carcinoma C. Malignant melanoma D. Squamous-cell carcinoma

A. is the only lung cancer not related to cigarette smoking related to lung scarring and fibrosis from preexisting pulmonary diseases such as TB and COPD. (B& D) are related to smoking. (C) is a skin cancer

The nurse notices clear nasal drainage in a patient newly admitted with facial trauma, including a nasal fracture. The nurse should: A. test the drainage for the presence of glucose. B. suction the nose to maintain airway clearance. C. document the findings and continue monitoring. D. apply a drip pad and reassure the patient this is normal.

A. test the drainage for the presence of glucose. Clear nasal drainage suggests leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The drainage should be tested for the presence of glucose, which would indicate the presence of CSF.

The nurse is planning the care for a client who is admitted with the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). Which interventions should the nurse include in this client's plan of care? (Select all that apply.) A. Salt-free diet B. Quiet environment C. Deep tendon reflex assessments D. Neurologic checks E. Daily weights F. Unrestricted intake of free water

B, C, D, E. SIADH results in water retention and dilutional hyponatremia, which causes neurologic change when serum sodium levels are less than 115 mEq/L. The nurse should maintain a quiet environment (B) to prevent overstimulation that can lead to periods of disorientation, assess deep tendon reflexes (C) and neurologic checks (D) to monitor for neurologic deterioration. Daily weights (E) should be monitored to assess for fluid overload: 1 kg weight gain equals 1 L of fluid retention, which further dilutes serum sodium levels. (A and F) contribute to dilutional hyponatremia.

A patient is being discharged from the emergency department after being treated for epistaxis. In teaching the family first aid measures in the event the epistaxis would recur, which of the following measures would the nurse suggest? (Select all that apply.) A. Tilt patients head backwards B. Apply ice compresses to the nose C. Pinch the entire soft lower portion of the nose D. Partially insert a small gauze pad into the bleeding nostril

B,C,D First aid measures to control epistaxis includes placing the patient in a sitting position, leaning forward. Tilting the head back does not stop the bleeding, but rather allows the blood to enter the nasopharynx, which could result in aspiration or nausea/vomiting from swallowing blood. All of the other options are appropriate first aid treatment of epistaxis.

Seconal 0.1 gram PRN at bedtime is prescribed for rest. The scored tablets are labeled grain 1.5 per tablet. How many tablets should the nurse plan to administer? A. 1/2 tablet B. 1 tablet C. 1 1/2 tablet D. 2 tablets

B. 15 gr = 1 g, 0.1 x 15 = 1.5 grains

The nurse is interviewing a client who is taking interferon-alfa-2a (Roferon-A) and ribavirin (Virazole) combination therapy for hepatitis C. The client reports experiencing overwhelming feelings of depression. What action should the nurse implement first? A. Recommend mental health counseling. B. Review the medications actions and interactions. C. Assess for the client's daily activity level. D. Provide information regarding a support group.

B. Alpha-interferon and ribavirin combination therapy can cause severe depression. (A, B, C) may be implemented after physiological aspect of the situation are assessed.

A 43-year-old homeless, malnourished female client with a history of alcoholism is transferred to the ICU. She is placed on telemetry, and the rhythm strip shown is obtained. The nurse palpates a heart rate of 160 beats/min, and the client's blood pressure is 90/54. Based on these finding, which IV medication should the nurse administer? A. Amiodarone (Cordarone) B. Magnesium sulfate C. Lidocaine (Xylocaine) D. Procainamide (Pronestyl)

B. Because the client has chronic alcoholism, she is likely to have hypomagnesium. (B) is the recommended drug for torsades de pointes (AHA, 2005), which is a form of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT), usually associated with a prolonged QT interval that occurs with hypomagnesemia. (A and D) increase the QT interval, which can cause the torsades to worsen. (C) is the antiarrhythmic of choice in most cases of drug-induced monomorphic VT, not torsades.

A client with chronic asthma is admitted to postanesthesia complaining of pain at level 8 of 10, with a BP of 124/78, pulse of 88 beats/min, and respirations of 20 breaths/min. The postanesthesia recovery prescription is, "Morphine 2 to 4 mg IV push while in recovery for pain level over 5." What intervention should the nurse implement? A. Give the medication as prescribed to decrease the client's pain. B. Call the anesthesia provider for a different medication for pain. C. Use nonpharmacologic techniques before giving the medication. D. Reassess pain level in 30 Minutes and medicate if it remains elevated.

B. Call for a different medication because morphine and meperidine (Demerol) have histamine-releasing narcotics and should be avoided when a client has asthma. (A) puts the client at risk for asthma attack. (C & D) disregard the clients prescription and pain relief.

The nurse is reviewing the routine medications taken by a client with chronic angle closure glaucoma. Which medication prescription should the nurse question? A. An antianginal with a therapeutic effect of vasodilation. B. An anticholinergic with a side effect of pupillary dilation. C. An antihistamine with a side effect of sedation. D. A corticosteroid with a side effect of hyperglycemia.

B. Clients with angle closure glaucoma should not take medications that dilate the pupil (B) because this can precipitate acute and severely increased intraocular pressure. (A, C, D) do not cause increased intraocular pressure, which is the primary concern.

A client diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CDK) 2 years ago is regularly treated at a community hemodialysis facility. In assessing the client before his scheduled dialysis treatment, which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse anticipate? A. Hypophosphatemia B. Hypocalcemia C. Hyponatremia D. Hypokalemia

B. Hypocalcemia develops in CKD due to chronic hyperphosphatemia not (A). (C & D) incorrect you would find hypernatremia and hyperkalemia

A 25-year-old client was admitted yesterday after a motor vehicle collision. Neurodiagnostic studies showed a basal skull fracture in the middle fossa. Assessment on admission revealed both halo and Battle signs. Which new symptom indicates that the client is likely to be experiencing a common life-threatening complication associated with basal skull fracture? A. Bilateral jugular vein distention. B. Oral temperature of 102 degrees F. C. Intermittent focal motor seizures. D. Intractable pain in the cervical region.

B. Increased temp indicates meningitis. (C & D) these symptoms may be exhibited but are not life threatening. (A) JVD is not a typical complication of basal skull fractures.

Which condition should the nurse anticipate as a potential problem in a female client with a neurogenic bladder? A. Stress incontinence. B. Infection. C. Painless, gross hematuria. D. Peritonitis.

B. Infection is the major complication resulting from stasis of urine and subsequent catheterization. (A) is the involuntary loss of urine through an intact urethra as a result of suddenly increased pressure. (C) is the most common symptom of bladder cancer. (D) is the most common and serious complication of peritoneal dialysis.

When assigning clients on a medical-surgical floor to a RN and a LPN, it is best for the charge nurse to assign which client to the LPN? A. A child with bacterial meningitis with recent seizures. B. An older adult client with pneumonia and viral meningitis. C. A female client in isolation wiht meningococcal meningitis. D. A male client 1 day post-op after drainage of a brain abscess.

B. Is the most stable. A, C, D have an increased risk for elevated ICP.

A 58-year-old client, who has no health problems, asks the nurse about taking the pneumococcal vaccine (Pneumovax). Which statement give by the nurse would offer the client accurate information about this vaccine? A. "The vaccine is given annually before the flue season to those over 50 years of age." B. "The immunization is administered once to older adults or persons with a history of chronic illness." C. "The vaccine is for all ages and is given primarily to those person traveling overseas to infected areas." D. "The vaccine will prevent the occurrence of pneumococcal pneumonia for up to 5 years."

B. It is usually recommended that persons over 65 years of age and those with a history of chronic illness should receive the vaccine once in a lifetime. (A) the influenza vaccine is given annually. (C) travel is not the main rationale for the vaccine. (D) The vaccine is usually given once in a lifetime.

Which abnormal lab finding indicates that a client with diabetes needs further evaluation for diabetic nephropathy? A. Hypokalemia B. Microalbuminauria C. Elevated serum lipids D. Ketonuria

B. Microalbuminuria is the earliest sign of nephropathy and indicates the need for follow-up evaluation. Hyperkalemia (A) is associated with end stage renal disease caused by diabetic nephropathy. (C) may be elevated in end stage renal disease. (D) may signal the onset of DKA.

The nurse is caring for a 73-year-old patient who underwent a left total knee arthroplasty. On the third postoperative day, the patient complains of shortness of breath, slight chest pain, and that "something is wrong." Temperature is 98.4o F, blood pressure 130/88, respirations 36, and oxygen saturation 91% on room air. Which of the following should the nurse first suspect as the etiology of this episode? A. Septic embolus from the knee joint B. Pulmonary embolus from deep vein thrombosis C. New onset of angina pectoris D. Pleural effusion related to positioning in the operating room

B. Pulmonary embolus from deep vein thrombosis The patient presents the classic symptoms of pulmonary embolus: acute onset of symptoms, tachypnea, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

An older female client with dementia is transferred from a long term care unit to an acute care unit. The client's children express concern that their mother's confusion is worsening. How should the nurse respond? A. "It is to be expected that older people will experience progressive confusion." B. "Confusion in an older person often follows relocation to new surroundings." C. "The dementia is progressing rapidly, but we will do everything we can to keep your mother safe." D. "The acute care staff is not as experienced as the long-term care staff at dealing with dementia."

B. Relocation often results in confusion among older clients and is stressful to clients of all ages. (A) is an inaccurate stereotype. (C) is most likely false there are many factors that cause increased temporary confusion. (D) may be true but does not offer the family a sense of security about the care.

An older male client comes to the geriatric screening clinic complaining of pain in his left calf. The nurse notices a reddened area on the calf of his right leg that is warm to touch and the nurse suspects that the client may have thrombophlebitis. Which addition assessment is most important for the nurse to perform? A. Measure calf circumference. B. Auscultate the client's breath sounds. C. Observe for ecchymosis and petechiae. D. Obtain the client's blood pressure.

B. Since the client may have a pulmonary embolus secondary to the thrombophlebitis. A. Would support the nurses assessment. C. Least helpful since bruising is not associated with thrombophlebitis. D. Less important then auscultation.

The nurse assesses a postoperative client. Oxygen is being administered at 2 L/min and a saline lock is in place. Assessment shows cool, pale, moist skin. The client is very restless and has scant urine in the urinary drainage bag. What intervention should the nurse implement first. A. Measure urine specific gravity. B. Obtain IV fluids for infusion protocol. C. Prepare for insertion of a central venous catheter. D. Auscultate the client's breath sounds.

B. The client is at risk for hypovolemic shock and is exhibiting early signs. Start IV to restore tissue perfusion. (A, C, D) are all important but less of a priority.

A female client with a nasogastric tube attached to low suction states that she is nauseated. The nurse assesses that there has been no drainage through the nasogastric tube in the last 2 hours. Which action should the nurse take first? A. Irrigate the nasogastric tube with sterile normal saline. B. Reposition the client on her side. C. Advance the nasogastric tube 5 cm. D. Administer an intravenous antiemetic as prescribed.

B. The priority is to determined if the tube is functioning correctly, which would relieve the client's nausea. The least invasive intervention is to reposition the client (B), should be attempted first, followed by (A & C) if these are unsuccessful then (D).

A 55-year-old male client is admitted to the coronary care unit having suffered an acute myocardial infarction (MI). Within 24 hours of the occurrence, the nurse can expect to find which systemic sign? A. Elevated serum amylase level B. Elevated CM-MB level C. Prolonged prothrombin time (PT) D. Elevated serum BUN and creatinine

B. Tissue damage in the myocardium causes the release of cardiac enzymes into the blood system. An elevated CM-MB is a recognized indicator of an MI. It peaks 12 - 24 hours and returns to normal within 48 - 78 hours. (A) would indicate pancreatitis or a gastric disorder. (D) Although an elevated BUN might be related to an acute MI it is usually associated with dehydration, high protein intake or gastrointestinal bleeding and creatine levels indicate renal damage. (C) Indicates effective anticoagulation therapy.

Which description of symptoms is characteristic of a client with diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia (tic douloureux)? A. Tinnitus, vertigo, and hearing difficulties. B. Sudden, stabbing, severe pain over the lip and chin. C. Unilateral facial weakness and paralysis. D. Difficulty in talking, chewing, and swallowing.

B. Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by paroxysms of pain, similar to an electric shock, in the area innervated by one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. A. Characteristic of Meniere's C. Characteristic of Bell palsey D. Characteristic of disorders of the hypoglossal (12th cranial nerve)

The nurse observes ventricular fibrillation on telemetry and upon entering the clients bathroom finds the client unconscious on the floor. What intervention should the nurse implement first? A. Administer an antidysrhythmic medication. B. Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation. C. Defibrillate the client at 200 joules. D. Assess the client's pulse oximetry.

B. Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening dysrhythmia and CPR should be started immediately. A & C are appropriate but B is the priority. D does not address the seriousness of the situation.

Debilitating anginal pain can be decreased in some clients by the administration of beta-blocking agents such as nadolol (Corgard). Which client requires the nurse to use extreme caution when administering Corgard? A. A 56-year-old air traffic controller who had bypass surgery 2 years ago. B. A 47-year-old kindergarten teacher diagnosed with asthma 40 years ago C. A 52-year-old unemployed stock broker who refuses treatment for alcoholism D. A 60-year-old retired librarian who takes a diuretic daily for hypertension.

B. asthma must be carefully monitored because beta blockers because it can induce cardiogenic shock and reduce bronchodilation efforts. (A & D) this medication is indicated and (C) it is not contraindicated.

If a patient with an uncuffed tracheostomy tube coughs violently during suctioning and dislodges the tracheostomy tube, a nurse should first A. call the physician. B. attempt to reinsert the tracheostomy tube. C. position the patient in a lateral position with the neck extended. D. cover the stoma with a sterile dressing and ventilate the patient with a manual bag-mask until the physician arrives.

B. attempt to reinsert the tracheostomy tube.Retention sutures may be grasped (if present) and the tracheostomy opening spread, or a hemostat may be used to spread the opening. The obturator is inserted into the replacement tube (one size smaller than the original tube), lubricated with saline solution, and inserted into the stoma at a 45-degree angle to the neck. If the attempt is successful, the obturator tube should immediately be removed.

A family member was taught to suction a client's tracheostomy prior to the client's discharge from the hospital. Which observation by the nurse indicates that the family member is capable of correctly performing the suctioning technique? A. Turns on the continuous wall suction to -190 mm Hg B. Inserts the catheter until resistance or coughing occurs C. Withdraws the catheter while maintaining suctioning D. Re-clears the tracheostomy after suctioning the mouth

B. indicates correct technique for performing suctioning. Suction pressure should be between -80 and -120 (A). The catheter should be withdrawn 1-2 cm at a time with intermittent suction (C). (D) introduces pathogens.

In preparing the preoperative teaching plan for a patient who is to undergo a total laryngectomy, a nurse should give highest priority to the A. tracheostomy being in place for 2 to 3 days. B. patient's not being able to speak normally again. C. insertion of a gastrostomy feeding tube during surgery. D. patient's not being able to perform deep-breathing exercises.

B. patient's not being able to speak normally again. Patients who have a total laryngectomy have a permanent tracheostomy and will need to learn how to speak using alternative methods, such as an artificial larynx. The tracheostomy will be permanent to allow normal breathing patterns and air exchange. After surgery, the patient's nutrition is supplemented with enteral feedings, and when the patient can swallow secretions, oral feedings can begin. Deep-breathing exercises should be performed with the patient at least every 2 hours to prevent further pulmonary complications.

A 75-year-old obese patient who is snoring loudly and having periods of apnea several times each night is most likely experiencing A. narcolepsy. B. sleep apnea. C. sleep deprivation. D. paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.

B. sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is most common in obese patients. Typical symptoms include snoring and periods of apnea. Narcolepsy is when a patient falls asleep unexpectedly. Sleep deprivation could result from sleep apnea. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea occurs when a patient has shortness of breath during the night.

What is the correct location for the placement of the hand for manual chest compressions during CPR on the adult client. A. Just above the xiphoid process on the upper third of the sternum. B. Below the xiphoid process midway between the sternum and the umbilicus. C. Just about the xiphoid process on the lower third of the sternum. D. Below the xiphoid process midway between the sternum and the first rib.

C.

The home health nurse is assessing a male client being treated for Parkinson disease with levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet). The nurse observes that he does not demonstrate any apparent emotions when speaking and rarely blinks. Which intervention should the nurse implement? A. Perform a complete cranial nerve assessment. B. Instruct the client that he may be experiencing medication toxicity. C. Document the presence of these assessment findings. D. Advise the client to seek immediate medical evaluation.

C. A mask-like expression and infrequent blinking are common clinical features of Parkinsonism. The nurse should document the findings. (A & D) are not necessary. Signs of toxicity (B) are dyskinesia, hallucinations, and psychosis.

A central venous catheter has been inserted via a jugular vein and a radiography has confirmed placement of the catheter. A prescription has been received for stat medication but IV fluids have not yet been started. What action should the nurse take prior to administering the prescribed medication? A. Assess for signs of jugular vein distention. B. Obtain the needed intravenous solution. C. Administer a bolus of normal saline solution. D. Flush the line with heparinized saline.

C. A medication can be administered central line without IV fluids, flush with normal saline to remove heparin that may counteract with the medication. (B) is used following the medication and a second saline bolus. (A) will not impact the the med administration and is not a priority. (B) Administration of the stat medication is more of a priority than (B).

During the change of shift report, the charge nurse reviews the infusions being received by the clients on the oncology unit. The client receiving which infusion should be seen first?

C. Has the highest risk for respiratory depression and therefor should be seen first. (A) Risk of hypotension. (B) Lowest risk. (D) Risk of nephrotoxicity and phlebitis.

Which of the following positions is most appropriate for the nurse to place a patient experiencing an asthma exacerbation? A. Supine B. Lithotomy C. High-Fowler's D. Reverse Trendelenburg

C. High-Fowler'sThe patient experiencing an asthma attack should be placed in high-Fowler's position to allow for optimal chest expansion and enlist the aid of gravity during inspiration.

The nurse know that normal lab values expected for an adult may vary in an older client. Which data would the nurse expect to find when reviewing laboratory values of an 80-year-old man who is in good overall health. A. Complet blood count reveals increased WBC and decreased RBC counts. B. Chemistries reveal an increased serum bilirubin with slightly increased liver enzymes. C. Urinalysis reveals slight protein in the urine and bacteriuria with pyuria. D. Serum electrolytes reveal a decreased sodium level with an increased potassium level.

C. In older adults the protein found in urine is slightly risen as a result of kidney changes or subclinical UTIs and the client frequently experiences asymptomatic bacteriuria and pyuria as a result of incomplete bladder emptying. (A, B, D) are not normal findings.

During assessment of a 45-year-old patient with asthma, the nurse notes wheezing and dyspnea. The nurse interprets that these symptoms are related to which of the following pathophysiologic changes? A. Laryngospasm B. Overdistention of the alveoli C. Narrowing of the airway D. Pulmonary edema

C. Narrowing of the airwayNarrowing of the airway leads to reduced airflow, making it difficult for the patient to breathe and producing the characteristic wheezing.

While ambulating a patient with metastatic lung cancer, the nurse observes a drop in oxygen saturation from 93% to 86%. Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate based upon these findings? A. Continue with ambulation as this is a normal response to activity. B. Move the oximetry probe from the finger to the earlobe for more accurate monitoring during activity. C. Obtain a physician's order for supplemental oxygen to be used during ambulation and other activity. D. Obtain a physician's order for arterial blood gas determinations to verify the oxygen saturation.

C. Obtain a physician's order for supplemental oxygen to be used during ambulation and other activity. An oxygen saturation level that drops below 90% with activity indicates that the patient is not tolerating the exercise and needs to have supplemental oxygen applied.

The nurse determines that a patient is experiencing common adverse effects from the inhaled corticosteroid beclomethasone (Beclovent) after noting which of the following? A. Adrenocortical dysfunction and hyperglycemia B. Elevation of blood glucose and calcium levels C. Oropharyngeal candidiasis and hoarseness D. Hypertension and pulmonary edema

C. Oropharyngeal candidiasis and hoarseness Oropharyngeal candidiasis and hoarseness are common adverse effects from the use of inhaled corticosteroids because the medication can lead to overgrowth of organisms and local irritation if the patient does not rinse the mouth following each dose.

A 71-year-old patient is admitted with acute respiratory distress related to cor pulmonale. Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate during admission of this patient? A. Delay any physical assessment of the patient and review with the family the patient's history of respiratory problems. B. Perform a comprehensive health history with the patient to review prior respiratory problems. C. Perform a physical assessment of the respiratory system and ask specific questions related to this episode of respiratory distress. D. Complete a full physical examination to determine the effect of the respiratory distress on other body functions.

C. Perform a physical assessment of the respiratory system and ask specific questions related to this episode of respiratory distress.Because the patient is having respiratory difficulty, the nurse should ask specific questions about this episode and perform a physical assessment of this system. Further history taking and physical examination of other body systems can proceed once the patient's acute respiratory distress is being managed.

During discharge teaching for a 65-year-old patient with emphysema and pneumonia, which of the following vaccines should the nurse recommend the patient receive? A. S. aureus B. H. influenzae C. Pneumococcal D. Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG)

C. Pneumococcal The pneumococcal vaccine is important for patients with a history of heart or lung disease, recovering from a severe illness, age 65 or over, or living in a long-term care facility.

The nurse is caring for a critically ill client with cirrhosis of the liver who has a nasogastric tube draining bright red blood. The nurse notes that the client's serum hemoglobin and hematocrit are decreased. What additional change in lab data should the nurse expect? A. Increased serum albumin B. Decreased serum creatinine C. Decreased serum ammonia D. Increased liver function tests

C. The breakdown of glutamine in the intestine and the increased activity of colonic bacteria from the digestion of proteins increases the ammonia levels in the clients with advanced liver disease, so removal of blood, a protein source, from the intestines results in reduced ammonia. (A, B, D) will not be significantly impacted by the removal of blood.

During report, the nurse learns that a client with tumor lysis syndrome is receiving an IV infusion containing insulin. Which assessment should the nurse complete first? A. Review the client's history for diabetes mellitus. B. Observe the extremity distal to the IV site. C. Monitor the client's serum potassium and blood glucose. D. Evaluate the client's oxygen saturation and breath sounds.

C. The client with tumor lysis syndrome may experience hyperkalemia, therefor it is important to monitor serum potassium and blood glucose levels. (A, B, D) are not as priority.

In older adults, infection after exposure to respiratory illness is most likely to A. result in similar rates of infection as in the younger adult. B. be easily prevented with the use of antibiotics after being exposed. C. result in serious lower respiratory infection related to weakened respiratory muscles and fewer cilia. D. be less serious because the older adult has less contact with younger children who are most likely to carry serious infections.

C. result in serious lower respiratory infection related to weakened respiratory muscles and fewer cilia. Changes in the older adult respiratory system make older adults more susceptible to infections that can be very serious and life threatening. Use of antibiotics to "prevent" lung infections is not recommended and is ineffective for viral infections.

Upon entering the room of a patient who has just returned from surgery for total laryngectomy and radical neck dissection, a nurse should recognize a need for intervention when finding A. a gastrostomy tube that is clamped. B. the patient coughing blood-tinged secretions from the tracheostomy. C. the patient positioned in a lateral position with the head of the bed flat. D. 200 ml of serosanguineous drainage in the patient's portable drainage device.

C. the patient positioned in a lateral position with the head of the bed flat. After total laryngectomy and radical neck dissection, a patient should be placed in a semi-Fowler's position to decrease edema and limit tension on the suture line.

The nurse determines that the patient understood medication instructions about the use of a spacer device when taking inhaled medications after hearing the patient state which of the following as the primary benefit? A. "Now I will not need to breathe in as deeply when taking the inhaler medications." B. "This device will make it so much easier and faster to take my inhaled medications." C. "I will pay less for medication because it will last longer." D. "More of the medication will get down into my lungs to help my breathing."

D. "More of the medication will get down into my lungs to help my breathing." A spacer assists more medication to reach the lungs, with less being deposited in the mouth and the back of the throat.

The nurse know that a client taking diuretics must be assessed for the development of hypokalemia, and that hypokalemia will create changes in the client's normal ECG tracing. Which ECG change would be an expected finding in the client with hypokalemia? A. Tall, spiked T waves B. A prolonged QT interval C. A widening QRS complex D. Presence of a U wave

D. A U wave is a positive deflection following the T wave and is often present with hypokalemia. A, B, C indicate hyperkalemia.

A client who is receiving an ACE inhibitor for hypertension calls the clinic and reports the recent onset of a cough to the nurse. What action should the nurse implement? A. Advise the client to come to the clinic immediately for further assessment. B. Instruct the client to discontinue use of the drug, and make an appointment at the clinic. C. Suggest that the client lear to accept the cough as a side effect to a necessary prescription. D. Encourage the client to keep taking the drug until seen by the HCP.

D. Cough is a common s/e of ACE inhibitors and is not an indication to discontinue the medication. (A) immediate evaluation is not needed. (B) an antihypertensive should not be stopped abruptly. (C) is demeaning since the cough may be disruptive to the client and other medications may produce results without the s/e.

The nurse is assigned to care for a patient who has anxiety and an exacerbation of asthma. Which of the following is the primary reason for the nurse to carefully inspect the chest wall of this patient? A. Observe for signs of diaphoresis B. Allow time to calm the patient C. Monitor the patient for bilateral chest expansion D. Evaluate the use of intercostal muscles

D. Evaluate the use of intercostal muscles The nurse physically inspects the chest wall to evaluate the use of intercostal (accessory) muscles, which gives an indication of the degree of respiratory distress experienced by the patient.

When planning patient teaching about emphysema, the nurse understands that the symptoms of emphysema are caused by which of the following? A. Hypertrophy and hyperplasia of goblet cells in the bronchi B. Collapse and hypoventilation of the terminal respiratory unit C. An overproduction of the antiprotease alpha1-antitrypsin D. Hyperinflation of alveoli and destruction of alveolar walls

D. Hyperinflation of alveoli and destruction of alveolar walls In emphysema, there are structural changes that include hyperinflation of alveoli, destruction of alveolar walls, destruction of alveolar capillary walls, narrowing of small airways, and loss of lung elasticity.

A nurse is performing assessment for a patient diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect to observe? A. Nonproductive cough B. Prolonged inspiration C. Vesicular breath sounds D. Increased anterior-posterior chest diameter

D. Increased anterior-posterior chest diameter An increased anterior-posterior diameter is a compensatory mechanism experienced by patients with COPD and is caused by air-trapping. Patients with COPD have a productive cough, often expectorating copious amounts of sputum. Because of air-trapping, patients with COPD experience a prolonged expiration because the rate of gas on exhalation takes longer to escape. Chest auscultation for patients with COPD often reveals wheezing, crackles, and other adventitious breath sounds.

When planning appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with metastatic lung cancer and a 60-pack-year history of cigarette smoking, the nurse recognizes that the smoking has most likely decreased the patient's underlying respiratory defenses because of impairment of which of the following? A. Reflex bronchoconstriction B. Ability to filter particles from the air C. Cough reflex D. Mucociliary clearance

D. Mucociliary clearance Smoking decreases the ciliary action in the tracheobronchial tree, resulting in impaired clearance of respiratory secretions, chronic cough, and frequent respiratory infections.

The nurse is assessing a client who presents with jaundice. Which assessment finding is the most significant indication that further follow up is needed? A. Urine specific gravity of 1.03 with a urine output of 500 ml in 8 hours B. Frothy, tea-colored urine C. Clay-colored stools and complaints of pruritus D. Serum amylase and lipase levels that are twice their normal levels

D. Obstructive cholelithiasis and alcoholism are the two major causes of pancreatitis, and an elevated serum amylase and lipase indicate pancreatic injury. (A) is a normal finding. (B & C) are expected findings for jaundice.

When caring for a patient with COPD, the nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of imbalanced nutrition less than body requirements after noting a weight loss of 30 lb. Which of the following would be an appropriate intervention to add to the plan of care for this patient? A. Teach the patient to use frozen meals at home that can be microwaved. B. Provide a high-calorie, high-carbohydrate, nonirritating, frequent feeding diet. C. Order fruits and fruit juices to be offered between meals. D. Order a high-calorie, high-protein diet with six small meals a day.

D. Order a high-calorie, high-protein diet with six small meals a day.Because the patient with COPD needs to use greater energy to breathe, there is often decreased oral intake because of dyspnea. A full stomach also impairs the ability of the diaphragm to descend during inspiration, interfering with the work of breathing. Finally, the metabolism of a high carbohydrate diet yields large amounts of CO2, which may lead to acidosis in patients with pulmonary disease. For these reasons, the patient with emphysema should take in a high-calorie, high-protein diet, eating six small meals per day.

The nurse plans to help an 18-year-old developmentally disabled female client ambulate on the first postoperative day. When the nurse tells her it is time to get out of bed, the client becomes angry and yells at the nurse. "Get out of here! I'll get up when I'm ready." Which response should the nurse provide? A. "Your healthcare provider has prescribed ambulation on the first postoperative day." B. "You must ambulate to avoid serious complications that are much more painful." C. "I know how you feel; you're angry about having to do this, but it is required." D. "I'll be back in 30 minutes to help you get out of bed and walk around the room."

D. Returning in 30 minutes provides a cooling off period, is firm, direct, nonthreatening, and avoids argument with the client. B is threatening. C. assumes what the client is feeling. A. avoids the nurse's responsibility to ambulate the client.

The nurse is assessing a 75-year-old male client for symptoms of hyperglycemia. Which symptom of hyperglycemia is an older adult most likely to exhibit? A. Polyuria B. Polydipsia C. Weight loss D. Infection

D. S/Sx of hyperglycemia in older adults may include fatigue, infection, and neuropathy (such as sensory changes). (A, B, C) are classic symptoms and may be absent in the older adult.

A client with alcohol-related liver disease is admitted to the unit. Which prescription should the nurse question as possibly inappropriate for the client? A. Vitamin K1 (AquaMEPHYTON) 5 mg IM daily B. High-calorie, low-sodium diet C. Fluid restriction to 1500 ml/day D. Pentobarbital (Nembutal sodium) 50 mg at bedtime for rest

D. Sedatives such as Nembutal are contraindicated for clients with liver damage and can have dangerous consequences. (A) is often prescribed since normal clotting mechanism is damaged. (B) is needed to restore energy. (C) Fluids are restricted to decrease ascites which often accompanies cirrhosis, particularly in later stages of the disease.

In the case of pulmonary embolus from deep vein thrombosis, which of the following actions should the nurse take first? A. Notify the physician. B. Administer a nitroglycerin tablet sublingually. C. Conduct a thorough assessment of the chest pain. D. Sit the patient up in bed as tolerated and apply oxygen.

D. Sit the patient up in bed as tolerated and apply oxygen.The patient's clinical picture is consistent with pulmonary embolus, and the first action the nurse takes should be to assist the patient. For this reason, the nurse should sit the patient up as tolerated and apply oxygen before notifying the physician.

After admitting a patient to the medical unit with a diagnosis of pneumonia, the nurse will verify that which of the following physician orders have been completed before administering a dose of cefotetan (Cefotan) to the patient? A. Serum laboratory studies ordered for AM B. Pulmonary function evaluation C. Orthostatic blood pressures D. Sputum culture and sensitivity

D. Sputum culture and sensitivityThe nurse should ensure that the sputum for culture and sensitivity was sent to the laboratory before administering the cefotetan. It is important that the organisms are correctly identified (by the culture) before their numbers are affected by the antibiotic; the test will also determine whether the proper antibiotic has been ordered (sensitivity testing). Although antibiotic administration should not be unduly delayed while waiting for the patient to expectorate sputum, all of the other options will not be affected by the administration of antibiotics.

The nurse witnesses a baseball player receive a blunt trauma to the back of the head with a softball. What assessment data should the nurse collect immediately? A. Reactivity of deep tendon reflexes, comparing upper to lower extremities. B. Vital signs readings, excluding blood pressure if need equipment is unavailable. C. Memory of events that occurred before and after the blow to the head. D. Ability to spontaneously open the eyes before any tactile stimuli are given.

D. The LOC should be immediately established immediately after the head injury has occurred. Spontaneous eye opening (D) is a simple measure of LOC. (A) is not the best indicator of LOC. (B) is important but not the best indicator of LOC. (C) can be assessed after LOC has been established by assessing eye opening.

What is the correct procedure for performing an ophthalmoscopic examination on a client's right eye? A. Instruct the client to look at the examiner's nose and not move his/her eyes during the exam. B. Set ophthalmoscope on the plus 2 to 3 lens and hold it in front of the examiner's right eye. C. From a distance of 8 to 12 inches and slightly to the side, shine the light into the client's pupil. D. For optimum visualization, keep the ophthalmoscope at least 3 inches for the client's eye

D. The client should focus on a distant object in order to promote pupil dilation. The ophthalmoscope should be set on the 0 lens to begin (creates no correction) and should be held in front of the examiner's left eye when examining the client's right eye and kept 1"-3" from the client's eye for optimum visualization. (A, B, C) are incorrect procedures.

The nurse assesses a patient with shortness of breath for evidence of long-standing hypoxemia by inspecting: A. Chest excursion B. Spinal curvatures C. The respiratory pattern D. The fingernail and its base

D. The fingernail and its base Clubbing, a sign of long-standing hypoxemia, is evidenced by an increase in the angle between the base of the nail and the fingernail to 180 degrees or more, usually accompanied by an increase in the depth, bulk, and sponginess of the end of the finger.

Twelve hours after chest tube insertion for hemothorax, the nurse notes that the client's drainage has decreased from 50 ml/hr to 5 ml/hr. What is the best inital action for the nurse to take? A. Document this expected decrease in drainage. B. Clamp the chest tube while assessing for air leaks. C. Milk the tube to remove any excessive blood clot build up. D. Assess for kinks or dependent loops in the tubing.

D. The least invasive action should be performed to assess the decrease in drainage. (A) is completed after assessing for and problems causing the decreased drainage. (B) is no longer protocol because the increased pressure may be harmful for the client. (C) is an appropriate nursing action after the tube has been assessed for kinks or dependent loops.

An older client is admitted with a diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia. The nurse's assessment of the client will most likely reveal which S/SX? A. Leukocytosis and febrile. B. Polycythemia and crackles. C. Pharyngitis and sputum production. D. Confusion and tachycardia.

D. The onset of pneumonia is the older may be signaled by general deterioration, confusion, increased heart rate or increased respiratory rate. (A, B, C) are often absent in the older with bacterial pneumonia.

To prevent atelectasis in an 82-year-old patient with a hip fracture, a nurse should A. supply oxygen. B. suction the upper airway. C. ambulate the patient frequently. D. assist the patient with aggressive coughing and deep breathing.

D. assist the patient with aggressive coughing and deep breathing. Decreased mobility after surgery in older adults creates the possibility of fluid buildup and retention in lung tissue. One of the primary goals of nursing intervention is to prevent atelectasis in a high-risk patient. Aggressive coughing and deep breathing can prevent atelectasis in the postoperative patient.

Anticoagulant therapy is used in the treatment of thromboembolic disease because anticoagulants can A. dissolve the thrombi. B. decrease blood viscosity. C. prevent absorption of vitamin K. D. inhibit the synthesis of clotting factors.

D. inhibit the synthesis of clotting factors. Anticoagulant therapy is based on the premise that the initiation or extension of thrombi can be prevented by inhibiting the synthesis of clotting factors or by accelerating their inactivation. The anticoagulants heparin and warfarin do not induce thrombolysis but effectively prevent clot extension.

Based on the clinical manifestations of Cushing's syndrome, which nursing intervention would be appropriate for a client who is newly diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome? A. Monitor blood glucose levels daily. B. Increase intake of fluids high in potassium. C. Encourage adequate rest between activities. D. Offer the client a sodium-enriched menu

Rationale: A Cushing's syndrome results from a hypersecretion of glucocorticoids in the adrenal cortex. Clients with Cushing's syndrome often develop diabetes mellitus. Monitoring of serum glucose levels (A) assesses for increased blood glucose levels so that treatment can begin early. A common finding in Cushing's syndrome is generalized edema. Although potassium is needed, it is generally obtained from food intake, not by offering potassium-enhanced fluids (B). Fatigue is usually not an overwhelming factor in Cushing's syndrome, so an emphasis on the need for rest (C) is not indicated A low-calorie, low-carbohydrate, low-sodium diet is not recommended (D).

After attending a class on reducing cancer risk factors, a client selects bran flakes with 2% milk and orange slices from a breakfast menu. In evaluating the client's learning, the nurse affirms that the client has made good choices and makes what additional recommendation? A. Switch to skim milk. B. Switch to orange juice. C. Add a source of protein. D. Add herbal tea.

Rationale: A Dietary recommendations to reduce cancer risk include reduced consumption of fats, with increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. (A) promotes reduced fat consumption. Orange slices provide more fiber than orange juice (B, C, and D) are not standard recommendations for reducing cancer risk.

A resident in a long-term care facility is diagnosed with hepatitis B. Which intervention should the nurse implement with the staff caring for this client? A. Determine if all employees have had the hepatitis B vaccine series. B. Explain that this type of hepatitis can be transmitted when feeding the client. C. Assure the employees that they cannot contract hepatitis B when providing direct care. D. Tell the employees that wearing gloves and a gown are required when providing care.

Rationale: A Hepatitis B vaccine should be administered to all health care providers (A). Hepatitis A (not hepatitis B) can be transmitted by fecal-oral contamination (B). There is a chance that staff could contract hepatitis B if exposed to the client's blood and/or body fluids; therefore, (C) is incorrect. There is no need to wear gloves and gowns except with blood or body fluid contact (D).

A 63-year-old client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is admitted for treatment of an ulcer on the heel of the left foot that has not healed with wound care. The nurse observes that the entire left foot is darker in color than the right foot. Which additional symptom should the nurse expect to find? A. Pedal pulses will be weak or absent in the left foot. B. The client will state that the left foot is usually warm. C. Flexion and extension of the left foot will be limited. D. Capillary refill of the client's left toes will be brisk.

Rationale: A Symptoms associated with decreased blood supply are weak or absent pedal and tibial pulses (A). The client with diabetes experiences vascular scarring as a result of atherosclerotic changes in the peripheral vessels. This results in compromised perfusion to the dependent extremities, which further delays wound healing in the affected foot. Although flexion and extension may be limited (C), depending on the degree of damage, this is not always the case. (B and D) are signs of adequate perfusion of the foot, which would not be expected in this client.

The nurse is assessing a male client with acute pancreatitis. Which finding requires the most immediate intervention by the nurse? A. The client's amylase level is three times higher than the normal level. B. While the nurse is taking the client's blood pressure, he has a carpal spasm. C. On a 1 to 10 scale, the client tells the nurse that his epigastric pain is at 7. D. The client states that he will continue to drink alcohol after going home.

Rationale: B A positive Trousseau sign (B) indicates hypocalcemia and always requires further assessment and intervention, regardless of the cause (40% to 75% of those with acute pancreatitis experience hypocalcemia, which can have serious, systemic effects). A key diagnostic finding of pancreatitis is serum amylase and lipase levels that are two to five times higher than the normal value (A). Severe boring pain is an expected symptom for this diagnosis (C), but dealing with the hypocalcemia is a priority over administering an analgesic. Long-term planning and teaching (D) do not have the same immediate importance as a positive Trousseau sign.

The nurse is caring for a client with a fractured right elbow. Which assessment finding has the highest priority and requires immediate intervention? A. Ecchymosis over the right elbow area B. Deep unrelenting pain in the right arm C. An edematous right elbow D. The presence of crepitus in the right elbow

Rationale: B Compartment syndrome is a condition involving increased pressure and constriction of the nerves and vessels within an anatomic compartment, causing pain uncontrolled by opioids, and neurovascular compromise (B). (A) is an expected finding. (C) related to compartment syndrome cannot be seen, and any visible edema is an expected finding related to the injury. (D) is an expected finding

Which change in laboratory values indicates to the nurse that a client with rheumatoid arthritis may be experiencing an adverse effect of methotrexate (Mexate) therapy? A. Increase in rheumatoid factor B. Decrease in hemoglobin level C. Increase in blood glucose level D. Decrease in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR; sed rate)

Rationale: B Methotrexate is an immunosuppressant. A common side effect is bone marrow depression, which would be reflected by a decrease in the hemoglobin level (B). (A) indicates disease progression but is not a side effect of the medication. (C) is not related to methotrexate. (D) indicates that inflammation associated with the disease has diminished.

In assessing a client with an arteriovenous (AV) shunt who is scheduled for dialysis today, the nurse notes the absence of a thrill or bruit at the shunt site. What action should the nurse take? A. Advise the client that the shunt is intact and ready for dialysis as scheduled. B. Encourage the client to keep the shunt site elevated above the level of the heart. C. Notify the health care provider of the findings immediately. D. Flush the site at least once with a heparinized saline solution.

Rationale: C Absence of a thrill or bruit indicates that the shunt may be obstructed. The nurse should notify the health care provider (C) so that intervention can be initiated to restore function of the shunt. (A) is incorrect. (B) will not resolve the obstruction. An AV shunt is internal and cannot be flushed (D) without access using special needles.

A female client who received a nephrotoxic drug is admitted with acute renal failure and asks the nurse if she will need dialysis for the rest of her life. Which pathophysiologic consequence should the nurse explain that supports the need for temporary dialysis until acute tubular necrosis subsides? A. Azotemia B. Oliguria C. Hyperkalemia D. Nephron obstruction

Rationale: D CKD is characterized by progressive and irreversible destruction of nephrons, frequently caused by hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Nephrotoxins cause acute tubular necrosis, a reversible acute renal failure, which creates renal tubular obstruction from endothelial cells that are sloughed or become edematous. The obstruction of urine flow will resolve (D) with the return of an adequate glomerular filtration rate and, when it does, dialysis will no longer be needed. (A, B, and C) are manifestations seen in the acute and chronic forms of kidney disease.