Nokea
The intensive care unit is full and the emergency room just called to report that a client with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning has arrived. Which clinical manifestation would the nurse expect if carbon monoxide poisoning has occurred?
- A. Pulse oximetry reading of 80%
- B. Expiratory stridor and nasal flaring
- C. Cherry red color to the mucous membranes
- D. Presence of carbonaceous particles in the sputum
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Carbon monoxide binds hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin, causing cherry red mucous membranes. Pulse oximetry (A) is unreliable, stridor (B) suggests obstruction, and carbonaceous particles (D) indicate smoke inhalation.
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A new mother tells the nurse that she is getting a new microwave so that her husband can help prepare the baby's feedings. The nurse should:
- A. Explain that a microwave should never be used to warm the baby's bottles.
- B. Tell the mother that microwaving is the best way to prevent bacteria in the formula.
- C. Tell the mother to shake the bottle vigorously for one minute after warming in the microwave.
- D. Instruct the parents to always leave the top of the bottle open while microwaving so heat can escape.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Microwaving baby bottles can cause uneven heating, leading to burns, so it should be avoided; warming under running water or in a bottle warmer is safer.
A female client is concerned that she is in a 'high-risk' group for the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). She wants to know about the advisability of donating blood. Which of the following responses is correct?
- A. Individuals who donate blood are at risk of getting the AIDS virus. You should not donate.'
- B. It's OK for you to donate because the blood bank has a test that is 100% effective.'
- C. You should not donate since it takes time to develop antibodies to the AIDS virus. If you donate blood before you develop the antibody, you could pass it on in the blood.'
- D. It is not a good idea for you to donate. If you have AIDS, the information is made public and could destroy your personal life.'
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The AIDS virus cannot be transmitted to the donor through the blood donation procedure. The test for the AIDS virus is not absolutely foolproof; therefore, it is not wise for a person with known risk factors to donate blood. It takes time for antibodies to the AIDS virus to develop. An infected individual could donate contaminated blood without it testing positive for the virus. For reasons of confidentiality, information about individuals infected with AIDS is not made public.
The nurse observes a client crying quietly. She has just experienced a spontaneous abortion at nine weeks' gestation. An appropriate response by the nurse would be:
- A. It must be God's will and probably is for the best.'
- B. This must be a difficult time for you. Would you like to talk about it?'
- C. I'm sure your other children will be a comfort for you.'
- D. Don't worry, you're still young. If I were you I'd just try again.'
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: This response is nontherapeutic because it belittles the client's response and gives a meaningless rationalization. This response acknowledges the client's feelings and demonstrates the therapeutic offering of self by the nurse. This response is nontherapeutic because it does not focus on the client's feelings and offers false reassurance. This response is nontherapeutic because it belittles the client's feelings and offers her advice.
A 29-year-old client is admitted for a hysterectomy. She has repeatedly told the nurses that she is worried about having this surgery, has not slept well lately, and is afraid that her husband will not find her desirable after the surgery. Shortly into the preoperative teaching, she complains of a tightness in her chest, a feeling of suffocation, lightheadedness, and tingling in her hands. Her respirations are rapid and deep. Assessment reveals that the client is:
- A. Having a heart attack
- B. Wanting attention from the nurses
- C. Suffering from complete upper airway obstruction
- D. Hyperventilating
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Classic symptoms of a heart attack include heaviness or squeezing pain in the chest, pain spreading to the jaw, neck, and arm. Nausea and vomiting, sweating, and shortness of breath may be present. The client does not exhibit these symptoms. Clients suffering from anxiety or fear prior to surgical procedures may develop hyperventilation. This client is not seeking attention. Symptoms of complete airway obstruction include not being able to speak, and no airflow between the nose and mouth. Breath sounds are absent. Tightness in the chest; a feeling of suffocation; lightheadedness; tingling in the hands; and rapid, deep respirations are signs and symptoms of hyperventilation. This is almost always a manifestation of anxiety.
A male client is scheduled for a liver biopsy. In preparing him for this test, the nurse should:
- A. Explain that he will be kept NPO for 24 hours before the exam
- B. Practice with him so he will be able to hold his breath for 1 minute
- C. Explain that he will be receiving a laxative to prevent a distended bowel from applying pressure on the liver
- D. Explain that his vital signs will be checked frequently after the test
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Post-liver biopsy, vital signs are monitored frequently to detect hemorrhage or shock, the most likely complications.