Hurst Review Questions
Which statement made by a client post-thyroidectomy would require further investigation by the nurse? 1. "I have a tingling feeling of my fingers." 2. "It hurts when I move my head." 3. "I feel pressure in my arm when you take my blood pressure." 4. "My legs are weak.
1. Correct. After this procedure the nurse should worry about the possibility of some of the parathyroids being accidentally removed with resulting hypoparathyroidism. Hypoparathyroidism results in hypocalcemia. Signs and symptoms include tingling, burning, or numbness of lips, fingers, and toes. The muscles may become tight and rigid, and seizures can result.
A client asked the nurse what could have caused them to develop right sided heart failure? What would be the best response by the nurse? 1. High blood pressure in the lungs. 2. Long term hypertension. 3. The inability of the mitral valve to close properly. 4. Narrowing of the aorta.
1. Correct: Yes, the right side of the heart pumps to the lungs. When the client has higher pressure in the pulmonary circuit from such things as emphysema, the pulmonary pressure can exceed the systemic pressure. The result is back flow to the right side of the heart and resulting right sided heart failure.
What information should a nurse include when educating a client regarding buccal administration of a medication?
1. This route allows the medication to get into the blood stream faster than the oral route. 2. Stinging may occur after placing the medication in the cheek. 3. If swallowed, the medication may be inactivated by gastric secretions.
An adult client has just returned to the nursing care unit following a gastroscopy. Which intervention should the nurse include on the plan of care? 1. Vital sign checks every 15 min x 4 2. Supine position for 6 hours 3. NPO until return of gag reflex 4. Irrigate NG tube every 2 hours 5. Raise four siderails
1., & 3. Correct: Vital signs post procedure are important to monitor for any post-procedure complications such as bleeding or any signs of respiratory compromise. VS are checked frequently for the first hour post procedure. Any client who has a scope inserted down the throat and has received numbing medication in the back of the throat to depress the gag reflex should be kept NPO until the gag reflex returns.
The nurse is caring for a client on the psychiatric unit with a diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder. The client has frequent hand washing rituals. Which nursing interventions would be advisable for this client? 1. Allow time for ritual. 2. Provide positive reinforcement for nonritualistic behavior. 3. Provide a flexible schedule for the client. 4. Remove all soap and water sources from the client's environment. 5. Create a regular schedule for taking client to bathroom.
1., 2. & 5. Correct: Initially meet the client's dependency needs as required to keep anxiety from escalating. Anything that increases the client's anxiety tends to increase the ritualistic behavior. Positive reinforcement for nonritualistic behavior takes the focus off of the ritual. A lack of attention to ritualistic behaviors can help to decrease the ritual. By creating a regular schedule when the client goes to the bathroom, (where the handwashing ritual occurs most frequently) allows the client a structured but limited time for the ritual. This can help give the client a sense of control of the maladaptive behavior until the client can start setting own limits on the behavior and develop more adaptive coping mechanisms.
What should the nurse tell the parents of a newborn about a Guthrie test? 1. The purpose of this test is to determine the presence of phenylalanine in the blood. 2. A positive test indicates a metabolic disorder. 3. To conduct this test, a sample of blood is taken from the baby's heel. 4. An increase in protein intake can interfere with the test. 5. This test will be done when your baby is 6 weeks old.
1., 2., 3. Correct: These are true statements. A positive test indicates decreased metabolism of phenylalanine, leading to phenylketonuria. The normal level of phenylalanine in newborns is 0.5to 1 mg/dl. The Guthrie test detects levels greater than 4 mg/dl. Only fresh heel blood, not cord blood, can be used for the test. The main objective for diagnosing and treating this disorder is to prevent cognitive impairment.
A nurse is caring for a client admitted with chronic fatigue and weakness. During the physical assessment, the nurse notes jaundiced sclera, abdominal distension, swelling in the legs and ankles, and bruises in various stages of healing throughout the body. What nursing interventions should the nurse initiate? 1. Measure abdomen 2. Monitor intake and output 3. Obtain daily weight 4. Place on fall precautions 5. Provide three meals per day 6. Dangle legs
1., 2., 3., & 4. Correct: The symptoms presented are indicative of liver disease. Measuring abdominal girth will monitor for accumulating ascitic fluid. Clients with liver disease have fluid volume problems, so daily weight and I&O are indicated. This client is at risk for injury related to chronic fatigue and weakness, so fall prevention is indicated. The client may need help eating if fatigue is severe.
The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the psychiatric unit with a diagnosis of major depression. What behaviors could the nurse expect upon assessment of this client? 1. Withdrawn behavior 2. Sitting in room, lights out, drapes closed 3. Unkempt appearance 4. Overeating 5. Severe insomnia
1., 2., 3., & 5. Correct: The client with severe depression has extremely low self-esteem and low energy levels and may just sit for hours. Depressed clients prefer to be alone and avoid social interactions. The room environment mimics the mood of the client (dark and gloomy). The client may not have the energy to bathe, change clothes, or even comb hair. The severely depressed person may have severe insomnia. However, sleeping too much is also a symptom of mild depression.
During an assessment interview with a client, what alternative healing modalities should the nurse inquire about? 1. "Tell me about your use of teas, herbs, and vitamins." 2. "What traditional or folk remedies are used in your family?" 3. "Do you meditate, pray, or use relaxation techniques for healing purposes?" 4. "What prescription medications are you taking?" 5. "What alternative therapies have you used?"
1., 2., 3., & 5. Correct: These are all inquiries the nurse should make when conducting an assessment interview in order to find out about alternative healing modalities. Alternative or complementary medicine is used to describe over 1800 therapies practiced around the world. Approximately 65 to 80% of the world's population use non-conventional (alternative) healing modalities. These alternative healing modalities can be such things as: Natural products (herbs, dietary supplements, etc.) mind and body practices (yoga, mediation, prayer, etc.), folk remedies and other non-traditional practices.
While examining a client's health history, which data indicates to the nurse that the client is at increased risk for developing cancer? 1. Family history 2. Alcohol consumption 3. Spicy diet 4. Human papillomavirus 5. Tobacco use
1., 2., 4., & 5. Correct: Family history of cancer increases the risk for having the same type of cancer. Alcohol and tobacco use increase the risk of cancer. When used together, they have a synergistic effect. Human papillomavirus (HPV) increases the risk of cervical, head, and neck cancers.
To reduce the risk of developing a complication following balloon angioplasty, the nurse should implement which measure? 1. Monitor cardiac rhythm 2. Assess the puncture site every 8 hours 3. Measure urinary output hourly 4. Prevent flexion of the affected leg 5. Avoid lifting buttocks off the bed
1., 3., 4., & 5. Correct: The primary healthcare provider should be notified of any rhythm changes or report chest pain/discomfort. These could be signs of re-occlusion. Decreased urinary output (UOP) could be due to poor renal perfusion, which can result from decreased cardiac output and shock. Frequent VS and UOP measurements are needed. Flexion should be avoided at the catheter access site to allow time for the clot to stabilize and reduce the risk of bleeding and hematoma formation. The client should avoid lifting the buttocks off the bed because this increases pressure at the insertion site which increases the risk of hematoma formation/bleeding.
The primary healthcare provider has prescribed phenytoin 100 mg intravenous push (IVP) stat for an adult client. What is the least amount of time that the nurse can safely administer this medication?
2 minutes
The nurse in the emergency department suspects that a client's lesion is caused by anthrax. What assessment question is most important? 1. Have you traveled out of the United States recently? 2. Have you recently worked with any farm animals or any animal-skin products? 3. Have you experienced any gastrointestinal upset recently? 4. Have you eaten any home-canned foods recently?
2. Correct: Cutaneous anthrax may be contracted by working with contaminated animal-skin products. Anthrax is found in nature and commonly infects wild and domestic hoofed animals.
A client, hospitalized with possible acute pancreatitis secondary to chronic cholecystitis, has severe abdominal pain and nausea. The client is kept NPO, an NG tube is inserted, and IV fluids are being administered. What is the rationale for the client being NPO with an NG tube to low suction? 1. Relieve nausea 2. Reduce pancreatic secretions 3. Control fluid and electrolyte imbalance 4. Remove the precipitating irritants
2. Correct: In clients with pancreatitis, the pancreatic enzymes cannot exit the pancreas. These enzymes, when activated, begin to digest the pancreas itself. The enzymes become activated in the pancreas when fluid or food accumulates in the stomach. The goal in treating this client is to stop the activation of the pancreatic enzymes. Treatment is focused on keeping the stomach empty and dry. This allows the pancreas time to rest and heal. Note: Autodigestion (pancreas digesting itself) is painful for the client and can lead to other problems such as bleeding.
The nurse is giving discharge instructions to an Asian client following a colonoscopy. During the instructions, the client stares directly at the floor, despite being able to speak English. Based on the client's body language, how would the nurse classify this behavior? 1. Embarrassment. 2. Attentiveness. 3. Disinterest. 4. Confusion.
2. Correct: Nurses must be aware of clients' specific cultural or religious beliefs in order to provide appropriate care and discharge planning. Asian societies have a deep respect for others and making eye contact with the nurse would be considered rude and offensive. The nurse is considered superior to the client, so direct eye contact with a superior shows a lack of respect. This client is displaying attentiveness while also showing respect for the nurse.
A child is being admitted with possible rheumatic fever. What assessment data would be most important for the nurse to obtain from the parent? 1. 102° F (38.89° C) temperature that started 2 days previously. 2. History of pharyngitis approximately 4 weeks ago. 3. Vomiting for 3 days. 4. A cough that started about 1 week earlier.
2. Correct: Rheumatic fever is often the result of untreated or improperly treated group A β-hemolytic streptococcal infections (GABHS), such as pharyngitis. Therefore, the history of pharyngitis or upper respiratory infection is a key assessment finding for establishing a diagnosis of rheumatic fever. Subsequent development of rheumatic fever usually occurs 2 to 6 weeks following the GABHS, so the assessment should include a remote history of pharyngitis.
A newly admitted client with schizophrenia has an unkempt appearance and needs to attend to personal hygiene. Which statement by the nurse is most therapeutic? 1. A shower will make you feel better. 2. It is time to take a shower. 3. Have you thought about taking a shower? 4. I need you to take a shower.
2. Correct: Schizophrenia is a thought disorder. Many clients with schizophrenia are concrete thinkers and have difficulty making decisions. The nurse needs to be direct, clear and concise in communicating with the client. This is a direct, clear and concise statement that guides the client to perform the needed activity.
The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the skilled nursing unit approximately 3 months ago. Since admission, the client has lost 8 pounds. There have been no documented changes in the client's physical health. Which strategy may help to improve caloric intake for this client? 1. Encourage the client to eat meals in the room. 2. Take the client to the dining room for all meals. 3. Provide a high protein supplement 30 minutes before meals. 4. Ask the unlicensed assistive personnel to feed the client at each meal.
2. Correct: The client may be lonely and miss the interaction with others, but reluctant to go to the dining room. Eating with others may help to improve appetite and intake of food. The nurse can actively seek out the client and take this client to the dining room. Simply encouraging the client to go to the dining room may not be sufficient to get the client to go.
Which factors should the nurse include when teaching a parent about risk factors for otitis media? 1. Breast-feeding 2. Contact with siblings 3. Day care attendance 4. Season of the year 5. Age over 5
2., 3. & 4. Correct: Contact with siblings, day care attendance, and season of the year all increase a child's risk of developing otitis media. Otitis media usually follows or accompanies an upper respiratory infection or the common cold. The exposure to upper respiratory infections is increased when other siblings are in the home and when the child attends daycare. More upper respiratory infections occur during times when the climate changes and during the winter months.
The school nurse has identified a large outbreak of viral conjunctivitis among one middle school class and plans to educate these students on this illness. Which data should the nurse be sure to include? 1. Use personal handkerchief to wipe the eye of discharge. 2. Light cold compresses over the eyes several times a day will ease discomfort. 3. Do not share towels or linens. 4. Discard all makeup and use new makeup after infection resolves. 5. Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
2., 3., 4. & 5. Correct: All of these measures will promote comfort and decrease risk of transmitting infection. Clients should also avoid touching the eyes and shaking hands/touching other. Cool compresses provide symptomatic relief.
The nurse on a neuro rehabilitation unit is caring for a client with a T4 lesion. The client suddenly reports a severe, pounding headache. Profuse diaphoresis is noted on the forehead. The blood pressure is 180/112 and the heart rate is 56. What interventions should the nurse initiate? 1. Place client supine with legs elevated. 2. Assess bladder and bowel for distention. 3. Examine skin for pressure areas. 4. Eliminate drafts. 5. Remove triggering stimulus. 6. Administer hydralazine if BP does not return to normal.
2., 3., 4., 5. & 6. Correct: The client is experiencing autonomic dysreflexia, which is a potentially dangerous syndrome that can develop in clients with spinal cord injuries. The cause of autonomic dysreflexia with these associated symptoms is a strong sensory or noxious stimulus. The most common stimulus is bowel, bladder distention, or irritation. Any painful, irritating or strong stimulus including environmental temperature changes, drafts, etc. can trigger autonomic dysreflexia. It is considered a medical emergency and must be promptly treated.
What interventions should the nurse initiate to keep the airway free of secretions in a client with pneumonia? 1. Evaluate results of ABG's and report abnormal findings. 2. Increase oral intake to at least 2000 mL/day. 3. Administer a cough suppressant medication. 4. Educate client on incentive spirometry. 5. Perform percussion to affected area.
2., 4., & 5. Correct: Liquefy secretions by increasing oral intake to at least eight, 8 ounce glasses of liquid/day unless fluid restrictions are required. Incentive spirometry helps keep alveoli open and prevents further pneumonia and atelectasis. Prescribed percussion can assist with loosening secretions for expectoration.
A client's last two central venous pressure (CVP) readings were 13 cm of water. The nurse would expect the client to manifest which associated signs and symptoms? 1. Dry oral mucus membranes 2. Tachypnea 3. Orthostatic hypotension 4. Rales in the posterior chest 5. Jugular vein distention 6. Weight gain
2., 4., 5. & 6. Correct: The normal range for CVP is 2-8 cmH2O or 2-6 mmHg. Therefore, the readings of 13 cmH2O are high and may be the result of fluid volume excess. The signs and symptoms of FVE include: tachynea, rales, and jugular vein distention from the increased volume and preload. Acute weight gain is one of the best indicators of FVE due to circulatory overload.
A client is admitted to the emergency department reporting abdominal discomfort and constipation lasting 3 days. Which abdominal assessment data would the nurse report to the primary healthcare provider? 1. Striae. 2. Borborygmi. 3. High-pitched bowel sounds. 4. Tympany noted on percussion.
3. Correct: High-pitched bowel sounds are indicative of an early bowel obstruction and hypoactive bowel sounds develop as obstruction worsens. The additional signs presented are also clues of a possible obstruction.
A client has sustained a major head injury as a result of a motor vehicle accident. The emergency department nurse is assessing the client's neurological status every 15 minutes. Which sign would the nurse recognize as an early indicator of an increased intracranial pressure (ICP)? 1. Dilated and unresponsive pupils 2. Cheyne-Stokes respirations 3. Cushing's triad 4. Change in level of consciousness (LOC)
4. Correct: A change in LOC is one of the earliest indicators of an elevated ICP.
After reviewing the nursing notes on a client receiving a unit of packed red blood cells, what action should the charge nurse take? 1. Decrease the transfusion rate to 50 mL/hour. 2. Assess the client for a transfusion reaction. 3. Check primary healthcare provider prescription for prescribed administration time. 4. Stop the transfusion and send blood bag to the lab.
4. Correct: All blood from each unit of packed red blood cells must be completed within a 4 hour time frame due to risk of hemolysis and bacterial invasion. If the unit of blood is not completed in a 4 hour time frame, the blood must be sent to the lab to be discarded. Keep in mind that the time frame for administering platelets and fresh frozen plasma differs (20-30 min).
How would the nurse determine the correct size oropharyngeal airway for a client? 1. Select the same size as the little finger of the victim. 2. Measure from the tip of the lips to the epiglottis. 3. Determine the length from the earlobe to the xiphoid process. 4. Measure from the earlobe to the corner of the mouth.
4. Correct: An airway of proper size will extend from the corner of the client's mouth to the tip of the earlobe on the same side of the client's face.
A female client taking captopril for hypertension tells the clinic nurse that she is planning to get pregnant. What recommendation should the nurse make? 1. "Captopril can be taken safely during pregnancy, but we will need to decrease your dose so you do not become hypotensive." 2. "We will need to increase your dose of captopril once you become pregnant." 3. "In order to prevent neural tube defects, start taking folic acid." 4. "Captopril can cause serious harm to an unborn baby, so you must prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. "
4. Correct: Captopril should not be taken during pregnancy because serious harm (possibly fatal) to the unborn baby can result when taken during pregnancy.
The occupational health nurse is caring for an employee after a chemical explosion at the local tire factory. The client reports a foreign body in the right eye. The right eye is watery, and the client reports photophobia. Which nursing action takes priority? 1. Evert eyelid and examine for foreign body. 2. Measure visual acuity. 3. Notify the receiving hospital immediately for transfer of the client. 4. Place an eye shield over eye.
4. Correct: If a foreign body is the result of explosion or blunt or sharp trauma, the eye should be protected from further damage by placing an eye shield over the eye (or if a shield is not available, a paper cup to prevent rubbing of the eye). Then make arrangements to transport the client for emergency care by an ophthalmologist. If movement of the unaffected eye creates movement in the affected eye, it may be necessary to cover the unaffected eye also to prevent further injury to the eye from movement.
The nurse should question which prescription for a client diagnosed with acute heart failure? 1. 2 gram of sodium (Na) diet. 2. Digoxin 0.25 mg IV q 4 hours times 3 doses. 3. Furosemide 40 mg IVP stat. 4. Start IV with NS at 125 mL/hr.
4. Correct: The client is in fluid overload and does not need the normal saline (NS) at 125 mL/hr. NS is an isotonic solution. It goes in the vascular space and stays there without shifting out to the cells. This could cause additional overload in the vascular space as well as cause the BP to increase. The other prescriptions are acceptable.
A client experiencing chest pain is prescribed an intravenous infusion of nitroglycerin. After the infusion is initiated, the occurrence of which symptom would prompt the nurse to discontinue the nitroglycerin? 1. Frontal headache 2. Orthostatic hypotension 3. Decrease in intensity of chest pain 4. Cool, clammy skin
4. Correct: This assessment finding of cool, clammy skin is an indication of decreased cardiac output that could be the result of too much vasodilatation. Cardiac output could continue to decrease if the nitroglycerin is not discontinued.
A case manager is assessing an unresponsive client diagnosed with terminal hepatic encephalopathy for equipment needs upon discharge home for hospice care. Which equipment should the case manager obtain for this client? 1. Alternating pressure mattress 2. Hospital bed 3. Walker 4. Suction equipment 5. Oxygen
Ans: 1., 2., 4., & 5. Correct: An alternating pressure mattress will help to prevent pressure ulcers. The risk of respiratory compromise increases as the neurologic status deteriorates. A hospital bed is needed so that the head of the client's bed can be elevated to 30 degrees to ease respirations and decrease the work of breathing. The client with hepatic encephalopathy is unresponsive due to accumulation of toxins and may need suctioning if unable to clear secretions from the oropharynx. Hepatic encephalopathy frequently has associated bleeding varices. The increasing ascites leads to hypovolemia. Both of these conditions can result in hypoxemia for the client at the end stages of liver disease; therefore, oxygen therapy is provided.
What should a nurse teach family members prior to them entering the room of a client who has agranulocytosis? 1. Meticulous hand washing is needed. 2. Do not visit if you have any infection. 3. The client must wear a mask. 4. Children under 12 may not visit. 5. Flowers are not allowed in the room.
Ans: 1., 2., 4., & 5. Correct: Protective isolation is needed for this client because of the presence of a low white blood cell count. We are protecting the client from acquiring an infection. So any visitors will need to have meticulous hand washing prior to entering. The visitor should not enter if he or she has any type of infection. To decrease the risk of infection, small children should not visit. Even the mildest symptom of infection could be detrimental to the client. Flowers have bacteria and should not be brought into the room.
When preparing a client for surgery, the nurse realizes the operative permit has not been signed. The client tells the nurse he understands the procedure, but received his preoperative medication approximately 10 minutes ago. What would be the appropriate action by the nurse? 1. Have the client sign the permit, as he verbalizes understanding. 2. Witness the form after having the client sign it. 3. Have his wife sign the form as she witnessed his statement that he understands. 4. Call the surgical area and explain that the surgery will have to be cancelled.
Ans: 4. Correct: The client must sign the operative permit or any other legal document prior to taking preoperative drugs that can affect judgment and decision-making capacity.
Two hours after a gastrectomy, a client has pink tinged drainage from the nasogastric (NG) tube, and the tube appears occluded. What is the nurse's initial action at this time? 1. Call the primary healthcare provider. 2. Reposition the client. 3. Increase the suction level. 4. Irrigate the tube.
Ans: 1. Correct: Do not tamper with fresh surgery tubes. Call the primary healthcare provider for blood draining from the NG tube after gastrectomy.
The nurse evaluates the effectiveness of discharge teaching for a client with type I diabetes mellitus. Which statement by the client would indicate to the nurse that teaching has been effective? 1. "Exercising regularly will decrease my insulin need." 2. "I will need to decrease my insulin dose when I develop an infection." 3. "I need to lose weight since obesity decreases insulin resistance." 4. "Increased stress levels will cause the glucose level in my blood to go down."
Ans: 1. Correct: Regular exercise decreases the need for insulin. Regular exercise reduces insulin resistance and permits increased glucose uptake by cells. This serves to lower insulin levels and reduce hepatic production of glucose.
Which prescriptions would the nurse recognize as being appropriate for the client with shingles? 1. Private room 2. Negative pressure airflow 3. Respirator mask 4. Face Shield 5. Positive pressure room
Ans: 1., 2. & 3. Correct: According to the current standards of Standard Precautions per the CDC, the client with shingles should be placed on airborne precautions which require the use of a private room with negative pressure airflow and a N-95 respirator mask.
A client with a history of command hallucinations was admitted to the hospital yesterday. What questions are most important for the nurse to ask? 1. "Are you hearing voices today?" 2. "What are the voices saying?" 3. "How are you feeling today?" 4. "Did you have difficulty sleeping last night?" 5. "Are the voices telling you to harm yourself or anyone else?"
Ans: 1., 2. & 5. Correct: The nurse must assess for hallucinations. The nurse needs to know what the voices are saying to determine the level of threat. The nurse needs to know if the command hallucination exists and whether it involves harming self or others which must be reported. These answers are important to know, as the client has a history of command hallucinations.
The nurse is working with a LPN/VN and an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). Which clients would be appropriate for the nurse to assign to the LPN/VN? 1. In Bucks traction requiring frequent pain medication. 2. 24 hours post appendectomy. 3. Diagnosed with cholelithiasis and scheduled for surgery in the AM. 4. Admitted 6 hours ago in adrenal insufficiency. 5. Client newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
Ans: 1., 2., & 3. Correct These clients are stable and require predictable care that can be done appropriately by the LPN/VN.
Which immunizations obtained by the age of two would indicate to the pediatric nurse that the child is up-to-date on immunizations? 1. Diptheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP). 2. Inactivated polio (IPV). 3. Herpes zoster. 4. Meningococcal 5. Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib).
Ans: 1., 2., & 5. Correct: By the age of two, the DTaP, IPV, MMR, Hib, varicella, pneumococcal, and rotovirus vaccines should have been received. The nurse should clarify this with the parent.
The nurse is advising the family of a client receiving palliative care on alternative methods for pain control to be used in conjunction with pain medications. Which method should the nurse include? 1. Providing a back massage 2. Administering pain medication when pain is rated at 5 out of 10 3. Distracting with music 4. Exercise 5. Prayer
Ans: 1., 3., & 5. Correct: These are types of alternative pain control that could be used in conjunction with traditional pain management. They can be used to provide relaxation and comfort; mind-body therapies such as meditation, guided imagery and hypnosis may be effective. Other measures may include: acupuncture, therapeutic touch, music therapy and spiritual practices such as prayer. These have been found to be effective in helping to reduce pain.
Which client should the nurse place in the room with a 6 year old with glomerulonephritis? 1. Twenty-two month old diagnosed with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 2. Four year old with nephrotic syndrome. 3. Three year old admitted with febrile seizures. 4. Two year old who has a fractured tibia.
Ans: 2. Correct. This child is not infectious and could be placed in the room with the child who has glomerulonephritis. Since the children are close in age, they will adapt well together.
The nurse is teaching the Type II diabetic about monitoring average blood glucose levels over time. The nurse evaluates teaching has been effective when the client verbalizes the need to return to the clinic for which test? 1. Glucose tolerance test 2. Glycosylated hemoglobin 3. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase 4. Fasting blood glucose
Ans: 2. Correct: Glycosylated hemoglobin (also known as hemoglobin A1C) tests the average blood glucose over 90 days, or 2-3 month time period. Specifically, this test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with blood sugar (glycated).
A client diagnosed with major depression is admitted to the psychiatric unit for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The client asks the nurse, "How many of these treatments do you think I will need?" What is the nurse's best response? 1. That is a question you need to discuss with your primary healthcare provider. 2. Everyone responds differently, but on average clients need 6-12 treatments. 3. You will need to take a treatment every month for at least a year. 4. Let's just take one treatment at a time, shall we?
Ans: 2. Correct: Most clients require an average of 6 to 12 treatments, but some may require up to 20 treatments. These treatments are generally given two to three times per week for three to four weeks. The number of treatments required depends on the severity of the symptoms and how quickly the client improves.
A nurse is caring for a client who delivered a baby vaginally two hours ago. What signs and symptoms of postpartum hemorrhage should the nurse report to the primary healthcare provider? 1. Two blood clots the size of a dime. 2. Perineal pad saturation in 10 minutes. 3. Constant trickling of bright red blood from vagina. 4. Oliguria 5. Firm fundus
Ans: 2., 3., & 4. Correct: Lochia should not exceed an amount that is needed to partially saturate four to eight peripads daily, which is considered a moderate amount. Perineal pad saturation in 15 minutes or less is considered excessive and is reason for immediate concern. Saturation of a peripad in one hour is considered heavy. Also, trickling of bright red blood from the vagina can indicate hemorrhage and is often a result of cervical or vaginal lacerations. Bright red blood indicates active bleeding. Oliguria is a sign of fluid volume deficit. As blood volume goes down, renal perfusion decreases and urinary output (UOP) decreases. The kidneys are also attempting to hold on to what little fluid volume is left.
An elderly male, diagnosed with chronic renal failure and depression, lives alone. Which question should the home health nurse ask first when assessing this client? 1. Have you had suicidal thoughts in the past? 2. How are you feeling today? 3. Have you had thoughts of harming yourself? 4. Do you have guns in your home?
Ans: 3. Correct: Suicide assessment should begin with direct questions about the presence of suicidal thinking. The nurse should recognize that elderly men are at higher risk for committing suicide, especially those with a history of depression, chronic illness and isolation.
A nurse from an adult unit was reassigned to the pediatric unit. Which client would be least appropriate to assign to this nurse? 1. Ten year old with 2nd and 3rd degree burns. 2. Five year old that was in a MVA and has a femur fracture. 3. Six year old admitted for evaluation of possible sexual abuse by a parent 4. Two month old with bronchopulmonary dysplasia being admitted for reflux.
Ans: 3. Correct: The least appropriate client to assign the nurse from the adult unit would be the suspected sexual abuse. Caring for an abused child requires skill that must be developed from understanding the dynamics of abuse as well as working with a certain developmental level.
A low income family with children lives in an old, run-down apartment building situated close to a salvage yard in a poor neighborhood. Which area of assessment would be most important for the home health nurse? 1. Immunization status 2. School-related problems 3. Lead poisoning 4. Signs of child abuse
Ans: 3. Lead Poisoning Lead may be found in the soil around rusted cars and can cause lead exposure. Old paint contains lead. Chips of paint may be consumed by young teething children. Old, run-down apartments may also have pipes which contain lead. Exposure to and consuming even small amounts of lead can be harmful. No safe lead level in children has been identified, and lead can affect nearly every system in the body. Mental and physical development can be negatively impacted by lead in the body.
A nurse is at highest risk for blood-borne exposure during which situation? 1. When removing a needle from the syringe. 2. While placing a suture needle into the self-locking foreceps. 3. Prior to inserting the intravenous (IV) line, the client moves causing a needle stick to the nurse. 4. A clean needle sticks the nurse through blood-soiled gloves.
Ans: 4. Correct: A clean needle that moves through blood-soiled gloves to stick the nurse is considered to be potentially contaminated and results in a blood-borne exposure. All other answers are considered a clean stick.
The nursing supervisor notified the charge nurse on a pediatric unit that a child with a history of developmental delays is being admitted with shingles. The nurses on the floor have the following assignments. It would be inappropriate for the charge nurse to assign the new admit to which nurse? 1. A nurse caring for clients with nephritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and appendectomy. 2. A new nurse just out of orientation caring for clients diagnosed with RSV, asthma, and anorexia nervosa. 3. A nurse caring for clients diagnosed with spina bifida, Hirschsprung's Disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. 4. A pregnant nurse caring for clients with cystic fibrosis, myelomeningocele, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Ans: 4. Correct: The information does not let you know if any of the nurses have had chickenpox or not. If a nurse has not had chickenpox, then they should not care for the client with shingles. The varicella zoster virus is responsible for chickenpox and shingles. The virus is lying dormant in the nerve ganglia and under certain conditions erupts (for example: stress). With the information you have, it would be best not to assign the new admit to the nurse who is pregnant. The other set of nurses and clients have no identified contraindications to taking care of the client with shingles.
A client diagnosed with serotonin syndrome is admitted to the unit. The nurse is familiar with this adverse reaction to the serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Which symptoms can the nurse expect on assessment? 1. Fever and shivering 2. Agitation 3. Decreased body temperature 4. Constipation 5. Increased heart rate
Answer 1., 2. & 5. Correct: Serotonin syndrome is a group of symptoms that can result from the use of certain serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and include high body temperature, agitation, increased reflexes, diaphoresis, tremors, dilated pupils and diarrhea. The client is likely to experience shivering with fever. Increased heart rate and blood pressure are also commonly experienced. More severe symptoms, including muscle rigidity and seizures, can occur. If not treated, serotonin syndrome can be fatal.
A client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis has been prescribed celecoxib. What should the nurse include in the client's education regarding this medication? 1. Do not take celecoxib with ibuprofen. 2. GI complaints and headache are among the most common side effects. 3. Drink a lot of water to offset the dehydration that may occur. 4. Notify the healthcare provider immediately if black stools are noted. 5. This medication provides relief of pain and swelling so you can perform normal daily activities.
Answer: 1., 2., 4., & 5. Correct: Concomitant use of celecoxib with aspirin or other NSAIDs (for example, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) may increase the occurrence of stomach and intestinal ulcers. This would increase the risk of GI bleeders. GI complaints and headache are two of the most common side effects. The client should stop taking celecoxib and get medical help right away if the client notices bloody or black/tarry stools. This would be an indication of GI bleeding. This medication is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which relieves pain and swelling. It is used to treat arthritis. The pain and swelling relief provided by this medication should help the client perform normal daily activities.
Which statement, made by a client scheduled for a total laryngectomy, indicates to the nurse a need for further preoperative teaching? 1. After the surgery, I will breathe only through a hole in my neck. 2. My wife will have to get a hearing aid because I will not be able to talk above a whisper. 3. I must have smoke detectors installed at home since I may not be able to smell after surgery. 4. After surgery, I will have a tube going through my nose to my stomach for feeding
Answer: 2. Correct: With a total laryngectomy, the vocal cords are removed. The entrance to the trachea is closed, so no air moves upward into the throat or mouth areas. The client will not be able to speak or whisper. The client's wife does not need a hearing aid, so further teaching is necessary.
Which assessment finding by a nurse would best indicate a positive Mantoux tuberculin skin test in a client? 1. Formation of a vesicle that is 4 mm in diameter 2. A sharply demarcated region of erythema of 10 mm 3. A central area of induration of 15 mm surrounded by erythema 4. A circle of blanched skin surrounding the injection site
Answer: 3. The basis of reading the skin test is the presence or absence of induration, which is a hard, dense, raised formation. This is the area that is measured. Sometimes the site has erythema, a reddening of the skin that can also have swelling. The erythema should NOT be measured. Reactions to the skin test will vary. Measure only the induration. An induration of 15 mm or more is positive in persons with no known risk factors of TB. Reactions larger than 15 mm are unlikely to be due to previous BCG vaccination or exposure to environmental mycobacteria.
Which signs and symptoms would the nurse expect to see in a client who has taken prednisone for two months? 1. Weight loss 2. Decreased wound healing 3. Hypertension 4. Decreased facial hair 5. Moon face
Answer: - Decreased wound healing - Hypertension - Moon Face
The family member of a schizophrenic client asks the nurse why the client is receiving chlorpromazine and benztropine. What is the best response by the nurse?
Answer: 2. Benztropine is given to treat the side effects produced by the chlorpromazine.
A healthy newborn has just been delivered and placed in the care of the nurse. What nursing actions should the nurse initiate? Place in the correct priority order.
Assess newborn's airway and breathing. Bulb suction excessive mucus. Assess newborn's heart rate. Place identification bands on newborn and mom. Administer sterile ophthalmic ointment containing 0.5% erythromycin.
What medication should the nurse anticipate giving to a client in preterm labor to stimulate maturation of the baby's lungs?
Bethamethazone
A client, admitted in Sickle Cell Crisis, is started on oxygen at 2L/NC and given a narcotic analgesic for pain control. What additional prescription is a priority for the nurse to initiate?
HYDRATION
