The nurse is drawing blood from a client's peripheral vein for laboratory specimens. Which of the following are correct nursing actions? Select all that apply.
- A. Do not leave a tourniquet on more than 1 minute while looking for a vein
- B. Draw the specimen while the skin is still wet with the alcohol prep
- C. If pulsating red blood is noted, withdraw the needle and apply pressure for 5 minutes
- D. Use a highly visible vein on the ventral side of the client's wrist
- E. Vigorously shake the specimen tube to mix obtained blood with anticoagulant solution
Correct Answer: A,C
Rationale: A tourniquet left on too long (A) can cause hemoconcentration, so it should be removed after 1 minute. Pulsating blood (C) indicates arterial puncture, requiring immediate needle withdrawal and pressure to prevent hematoma. Wet alcohol (B) can cause hemolysis, and the ventral wrist (D) is a risky site due to nerves and arteries. Vigorous shaking (E) damages blood cells, so gentle inversion is preferred.
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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.
The nurse is caring for a client with COPD who becomes dyspneic. The nurse should
- A. instruct the client to breathe into a paper bag
- B. place the client in a high Fowler's position
- C. assist the client with pursed lip breathing
- D. administer oxygen at 6L/minute via nasal cannula
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Use pursed-lip breathing during periods of dyspnea to control rate and depth of respiration and improve respiratory muscle coordination.
The client complains of frequent insomnia affecting her ability to rest well. Which of the following factors or lifestyle choices in her assessment history most likely contributes to her inability to sleep?
- A. Having a slight snack at bedtime
- B. Heart disease prevention of one baby aspirin each day
- C. Reading in bed prior to going to sleep
- D. Smoking 1½ packs of filtered cigarettes each day
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nicotine in cigarettes is a stimulant, disrupting sleep and likely contributing to insomnia, unlike snacks, aspirin, or reading.
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 male client had a hemicolectomy. The client is refusing to wear the prescribed sequential compression devices (SCDs). What is most important for the nurse to communicate to the client?
- A. An appropriate form must be signed, verifying refusal
- B. Complications, including death, could result
- C. The client will be billed for the equipment regardless
- D. The surgeon will be informed of the refusal
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: SCDs prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) post-surgery, a potentially fatal complication. Communicating the risk of complications, including death (B), is critical to emphasize the importance of compliance. Signing a refusal form (A), billing (C), or informing the surgeon (D) are secondary to ensuring the client understands the serious risks.