A nurse is caring for a client who has multiple leg fractures and is 24 hr postoperative following placement of skeletal traction. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Inspect the pin sites at least every 8 hr.
- B. Apply direct pressure to pin sites.
- C. Remove traction weights for comfort.
- D. Encourage vigorous movement of the affected limb.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A. Inspect the pin sites at least every 8 hr.
Rationale:
1. Inspecting pin sites regularly is crucial to monitor for signs of infection or other complications.
2. Postoperative clients with skeletal traction are at high risk for pin site infections.
3. Regular inspection allows early detection and intervention to prevent complications.
4. Waiting longer than every 8 hours may lead to delayed identification of issues.
Summary:
B. Applying direct pressure is contraindicated as it can cause harm.
C. Removing traction weights without medical order can lead to complications.
D. Encouraging vigorous movement is inappropriate and can cause harm.
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A nurse is inspecting the skin of a client who has basal cell carcinoma. The nurse should identify which of the following lesion characteristics on the clients skin?
- A. A pearly, waxy nodule
- B. A scaly, red patch
- C. A dark, irregular mole
- D. A firm, painless lump
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: A pearly, waxy nodule. Basal cell carcinoma typically presents as a pearly, waxy nodule on the skin. This characteristic appearance is due to the growth of abnormal cells in the basal cell layer of the skin. The nodule may also have small blood vessels visible on its surface. This presentation is distinct from other skin lesions. Choice B, a scaly red patch, is more indicative of conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Choice C, a dark irregular mole, is more suggestive of melanoma. Choice D, a firm, painless lump, is more characteristic of conditions like lipomas or fibromas. Thus, the correct answer is A based on the specific characteristics of basal cell carcinoma.
A nurse is assessing a client who takes salmeterol to treat moderate asthma. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the medication has been effective?
- A. The client has decreased mucus production.
- B. The clients daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) measures 85% above personal best.
- C. The client has a respiratory rate of 24/min.
- D. The client reports no nighttime coughing.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because an increase in the client's daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) by 85% above their personal best indicates improved lung function, which is a positive response to salmeterol. This demonstrates that the medication is effectively managing the asthma symptoms.
Choice A is incorrect because decreased mucus production is not a direct indicator of salmeterol's effectiveness in treating asthma. Choice C is incorrect as the respiratory rate alone does not provide specific information about the medication's effectiveness. Choice D is incorrect since the absence of nighttime coughing may be due to various factors and not solely because of salmeterol's effectiveness.
A nurse is preparing to discharge a client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following equipment should the nurse ensure that the client has available at home prior to discharge?
- A. Elevated toilet seat
- B. Compression stockings
- C. Heating pad
- D. Nebulizer
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Elevated toilet seat. The nurse should ensure the client has this equipment to facilitate safe and easy toileting post-hip arthroplasty. An elevated toilet seat helps prevent excessive bending at the hip joint, reducing strain and risk of injury. Option B, compression stockings, are used for venous circulation and are not specifically required for hip arthroplasty. Option C, a heating pad, may provide comfort but is not essential for postoperative care. Option D, a nebulizer, is used for respiratory conditions and is not relevant to hip arthroplasty.
A nurse is assessing a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings is a manifestation of hyperglycemia?
- A. Sweating
- B. Increased thirst
- C. Shakiness
- D. Decreased urination
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct Answer: B - Increased thirst
Rationale: Hyperglycemia results in elevated blood glucose levels, which leads to osmotic diuresis and fluid loss, causing increased thirst. Sweating (A) is more commonly associated with hypoglycemia. Shakiness (C) is a symptom of hypoglycemia due to low blood sugar levels. Decreased urination (D) is not a typical manifestation of hyperglycemia as it is more commonly associated with conditions like dehydration or kidney issues.
A nurse is caring for a client who had a surgical repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm 3 days ago. The clients vital signs are: temperature 38.3° C (100.9° F), heart rate 80/min, respirations 16/min, and blood pressure 128/76 mm Hg. Which of the following actions is the nurses priority?
- A. Administer an antipyretic for the fever.
- B. Encourage the client to ambulate.
- C. Assess the surgical incision for signs of infection.
- D. Increase IV fluid administration.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Assess the surgical incision for signs of infection. This is the priority because the client has a fever (indicating possible infection) post-surgery, putting them at risk for complications. Assessing the surgical incision allows for early detection of infection, prompt treatment, and prevention of further complications. Administering an antipyretic (choice A) only addresses the symptom but not the underlying cause. Encouraging ambulation (choice B) and increasing IV fluids (choice D) are important but assessing for infection takes precedence due to the potential severity of an infected surgical site.