The nurse is caring for a client with panic disorder who is reporting palpitations and intense feelings of fear. The client is shaking and hyperventilating. Which of the following actions would be a priority for the nurse to take?
- A. Assess the client for auditory and visual hallucinations.
- B. Administer a benzodiazepine to the client.
- C. Explore possible triggers for the episode with the client
- D. Remain in the room with the client.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Staying with the client (D) provides safety and reassurance, reducing fear and hyperventilation during a panic attack. Hallucinations (A) are not typical, medication (B) is secondary, and exploring triggers (C) is appropriate after stabilization.
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Prior to administering a tube feeding, the nurse obtains 50 mL of aspirant. The nurse should:
- A. Discard the aspirant and begin the tube feeding.
- B. Replace the aspirant and begin the tube feeding.
- C. Discard the aspirant and hold the tube feeding.
- D. Replace the aspirant and hold the tube feeding.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Replacing the aspirant prevents fluid/electrolyte loss, and feeding can proceed if pH confirms placement. Discarding aspirant risks dehydration, and holding the feeding is unnecessary unless placement is uncertain.
During an initial prenatal visit, the practical nurse is reviewing the history of a client at 10 weeks gestation. Which finding is a priority to report to the registered nurse?
- A. Client cares for a pet dog and a few outdoor cats
- B. Client has gained 4 lb (1.8 kg) during the pregnancy so far
- C. Client reports a nonodorous, milky white vaginal discharge
- D. Client swims in a pool for exercise three times per week
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Pet cats (A) pose a toxoplasmosis risk, which can cause fetal harm, requiring immediate education and possible testing. Weight gain (B) is normal, milky discharge (C) is typical in pregnancy, and swimming (D) is safe.
While teaching the family of a child who will take phenytoin (Dilantin) regularly for seizure control, it is most important for the nurse to teach them about which of the following actions?
- A. Maintain good oral hygiene and dental care
- B. Omit medication if the child is seizure free
- C. Administer acetaminophen to promote sleep
- D. Serve a diet that is high in iron
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Swollen and tender gums occur often with use of phenytoin. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist should be emphasized.
The nurse should recognize that physical dependence is accompanied by what findings when alcohol consumption is first reduced or ended?
- A. Seizures
- B. Withdrawal
- C. Craving
- D. Marked tolerance
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Withdrawal. Early withdrawal symptoms, including nausea and tremor, appear within hours of reducing alcohol intake.
A client has been hospitalized after an automobile accident. A full leg cast was applied in the emergency room. The most important reason for the nurse to elevate the casted leg is to
- A. Promote the client's comfort
- B. Reduce the drying time
- C. Decrease irritation to the skin
- D. Improve venous return
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Elevating the leg both improves venous return and reduces swelling. Client comfort will be improved as well.
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