A client with a diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is receiving anticoagulation therapy. Which of the following laboratory values would be most concerning?
- A. INR of 1.5
- B. Platelet count of 200,000/mm³
- C. Hemoglobin of 12 g/dL
- D. aPTT of 70 seconds
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An INR of 1.5 is below the therapeutic range for clients on anticoagulation therapy, increasing the risk of clot formation. A lower INR indicates inadequate anticoagulation, which can lead to thrombus formation and potential complications such as progression or recurrence of deep vein thrombosis. Platelet count, hemoglobin level, and aPTT are important parameters to monitor in a client with DVT. However, in this scenario, the most concerning value is the suboptimal INR level because it signifies a lack of anticoagulation effectiveness and poses a higher risk of clotting issues.
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A client is admitted to the hospital in the terminal stage of cancer. The nurse enters the client's room to administer medications and finds the client crying. The appropriate nursing action is to:
- A. Sit and hold the client's hand
- B. Ask why the client is crying
- C. Leave the room to give the client privacy
- D. Administer the medications and leave
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In end-of-life care, providing comfort and emotional support is essential. Sitting with the client, holding their hand, and offering a compassionate presence can help the client feel supported during a difficult time. Asking why the client is crying may not always be necessary as the focus should be on providing comfort rather than probing for information. Leaving the room to provide privacy or just administering medications and leaving may neglect the client's emotional needs and miss an opportunity to provide holistic care.
A newly licensed nurse is preparing to administer medications to a client. The nurse notes that the provider has prescribed a medication that is unfamiliar. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Consult the medication reference book available on the unit.
- B. Administer the medication as ordered.
- C. Ask a colleague for information about the medication.
- D. Contact the provider to clarify the medication.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When encountering an unfamiliar medication, the safest action for a nurse is to consult the medication reference book available on the unit. This resource provides accurate and detailed information about medications, including indications, dosages, side effects, and nursing considerations. Administering a medication without understanding it (choice B) can lead to medication errors and harm to the client. Asking a colleague for information (choice C) may not always provide accurate or up-to-date information. Contacting the provider (choice D) should be reserved for situations where immediate clarification is needed, but consulting the reference book is the initial step to gain knowledge and ensure safe medication administration.
A nurse in a provider's office is caring for a client who states, "I always have trouble sleeping." Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
- A. Teach the client stress reduction techniques
- B. Recommend that the client avoid caffeine intake in the evening
- C. Identify the client's typical bedtime routine
- D. Encourage the client to exercise regularly during daytime hours
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take first is to identify the client's typical bedtime routine. Understanding the client's sleep habits, environment, and bedtime rituals can provide valuable insight into potential factors contributing to their sleep troubles. Teaching stress reduction techniques (choice A) may be beneficial but should come after understanding the client's routine. Recommending avoiding caffeine intake in the evening (choice B) and encouraging regular daytime exercise (choice D) are important interventions, but identifying the bedtime routine takes precedence as it directly addresses the client's immediate concern.
A client with prostate cancer declines to discuss concerns after the provider discusses treatment options. What statement should the nurse make?
- A. I am available to talk if you should change your mind.
- B. It's important to discuss your concerns with the provider.
- C. You need to make a decision about your treatment options.
- D. Your concerns will be addressed at a later time.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Offering to talk later if the client changes their mind respects their current choice and keeps the dialogue open. Choice B is not the best response as it may pressure the client to share concerns. Choice C is incorrect as it imposes a decision on the client. Choice D does not acknowledge the client's feelings in the moment and postpones addressing concerns.
A nurse on a medical-surgical unit has received change-of-shift report and will care for four clients. Which of the following tasks should the nurse assign to an assistive personnel (AP)?
- A. Updating the plan of care for a client who is postoperative
- B. Reinforcing teaching with a client who is learning to walk using a quad cane
- C. Reapplying a condom catheter for a client who has urinary incontinence
- D. Applying a sterile dressing to a pressure injury
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C - 'Reapplying a condom catheter for a client who has urinary incontinence.' This task falls within the scope of duties for an assistive personnel (AP). Updating care plans (Choice A), reinforcing teaching (Choice B), and applying sterile dressings (Choice D) typically require a higher level of training and expertise, making them tasks that should not be assigned to an AP. Assigning appropriate tasks based on skill levels ensures safe and effective patient care.