Nokea
A healthcare provider is reviewing the laboratory report of a client who has been taking lithium carbonate for the past 12 months. The provider notes a lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L. Which of the following orders from the provider should the healthcare provider expect?
- A. Withhold the next dose
- B. Increase the dosage
- C. Discontinue the medication
- D. Administer the medication
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range for maintaining the drug's effectiveness while minimizing toxicity. Therefore, the appropriate action would be to continue administering the medication as prescribed by the healthcare provider to maintain the therapeutic effect for the client.
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A healthcare professional is preparing to measure an infant's temperature. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?
- A. Place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla
- B. Pull the pinna of the infant's ear forward before inserting the probe
- C. Insert the probe 3.8 cm (1.5in) into the infant's rectum
- D. Insert the thermometer in front of the infant's tongue
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When measuring an infant's temperature, the most appropriate and non-invasive method is to place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla (armpit). This method is safe, quick, and comfortable for the infant. Inserting the probe into the rectum is invasive and not recommended for routine temperature measurement in infants. Inserting the thermometer in front of the infant's tongue is not a reliable method for measuring temperature. Pulling the pinna of the ear forward is a technique used for adults, not infants.
During a shift change, a nurse is receiving a report for an adult female client who is postoperative. Which of the following client information should the nurse report?
- A. High platelets
- B. Hypertension
- C. Lower platelets
- D. High temperatures
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Lower platelets can indicate a potential risk of bleeding in a postoperative client. Thrombocytopenia, or low platelet count, can lead to increased bleeding tendencies and should be promptly reported to the healthcare team for appropriate management. Monitoring platelet levels is crucial in postoperative care to prevent complications related to inadequate clotting ability.
A nurse manager is developing a protocol for an urgent care clinic that often cares for clients who do not speak the same language as clinical staff. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Use a professional interpreter service
- B. Nurse to interpret
- C. Provide translation services for a nominal fee to clients
- D. Evaluate the clients' understanding at regular intervals
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In situations where there is a language barrier between healthcare providers and patients, it is essential to ensure accurate communication. Using professional interpreter services is the most appropriate choice to ensure clear and precise communication. Relying on the client's children for interpretation may not guarantee accurate or confidential communication. Asking the nurse to interpret can lead to miscommunication or misunderstanding of important medical information. Providing translation services for a nominal fee to clients may not always be feasible or culturally appropriate. Regularly evaluating the client's understanding helps ensure that information is effectively communicated and comprehended.
A client who is at 38 weeks gestation, is in active labor, and has ruptured membranes is being cared for by a nurse. What action should the nurse take?
- A. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter
- B. Apply fetal heart rate monitor
- C. Initiate fundal massage
- D. Initiate an oxytocin IV infusion
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When caring for a client in active labor with ruptured membranes, the priority action for the nurse is to apply a fetal heart rate monitor. This helps monitor the well-being of the fetus during labor and delivery, enabling timely interventions if any fetal distress is detected. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter may be required in some cases, but it is not the priority in the given scenario. Fundal massage is typically done after delivery to help the uterus contract and prevent postpartum hemorrhage. Initiating an oxytocin IV infusion may be indicated to augment labor, but it is not the initial action needed in this situation.
A client reports that the medication the nurse is administering appears different than what they take at home. Which of the following responses should the nurse take?
- A. Did the doctor discuss with you that there was a change in this medication?
- B. I recommend that you take this medication as prescribed
- C. Do you know why this medication is being prescribed to you?
- D. I will call the pharmacist now to check on this medication
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When a client reports that the medication appears different than what they take at home, it is crucial for the nurse to ensure the safety and accuracy of the medication being administered. The most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is to call the pharmacist to verify the medication, dosage, and any potential changes. This proactive step helps prevent medication errors and ensures the client's safety and well-being.