Nokea
The nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a preoperative patient. Which test result should be brought to the attention of the surgeon immediately?
- A. Serum K+ of 3.8 mEq/L
- B. Hemoglobin of 15 g/dL
- C. Blood glucose of 100 mg/dL
- D. White blood cell (WBC) count of 18,500/µL
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: An elevated WBC count indicates potential infection, requiring immediate attention.
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Cognitive changes include memory problems, confusion, and disorientation. These changes:
- A. Occur in 75% of patients over age 65
- B. Are not a normal part of aging
- C. Are due to enhanced cerebral blood flow
- D. Cause senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Cognitive decline is not a normal part of aging; it may indicate underlying conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Normal aging involves mild forgetfulness but not significant impairment.
During the rehabilitative phase following his cerebrovascular accident, Mr. K. is taught measures to relieve or prevent constipation. Which of these statements indicates that Mr. K. needs further health teaching?
- A. I eat whole-wheat bread with my meals.'
- B. I eat fruit three times a day.'
- C. I don't drink fluids after 4 P.M.'
- D. I don't like to take enemas.'
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Restricting fluid intake after 4 P.M. can contribute to dehydration and constipation, making this statement indicative of the need for further education on proper hydration practices.
What goal assumes the highest priority for Ms. Weeze with an acute asthmatic attack?
- A. Preventing future attacks
- B. Maintaining quiet, restful environment
- C. Observing for signs of drug toxicity
- D. Relieving bronchial spasm
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Relieving bronchospasm is critical to restore adequate airflow.
While caring for a client with extensive partial and full-thickness burns of the head, neck, and chest, which risk should the nurse prioritize for assessment and intervention?
- A. Airway obstruction
- B. Infection
- C. Fluid imbalance
- D. Paralytic ileus
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Airway obstruction. This should be prioritized because burns to the head, neck, and chest can lead to swelling and inflammation, potentially compromising the airway. Maintaining a clear airway is crucial for oxygenation and ventilation. If the airway becomes obstructed, it can quickly lead to respiratory distress or failure. Assessing for signs of airway compromise and intervening promptly is essential to prevent serious complications.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while infection, fluid imbalance, and paralytic ileus are also important considerations in burn care, they are not as immediately life-threatening as airway obstruction in this case. Infection can be managed with appropriate wound care, fluid imbalance can be addressed with fluid resuscitation, and paralytic ileus can be treated with medications and bowel management strategies.
A client with a chest tube connected to a closed drainage system needs to be transported to the x-ray department. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Clamp the chest tube prior to transferring the client to a wheelchair.
- B. Disconnect the chest tube from the drainage system during transport.
- C. Keep the drainage system below the level of the client's chest at all times.
- D. Empty the collection chamber prior to transport.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Keep the drainage system below the level of the client's chest at all times. This is important to prevent backflow of air or fluid into the client's chest, which can lead to complications such as a pneumothorax or hemothorax. Gravity ensures that the drainage system functions properly and prevents any potential harm to the client.
A: Clamping the chest tube prior to transferring the client is incorrect as it can cause a dangerous buildup of pressure in the chest.
B: Disconnecting the chest tube from the drainage system can also lead to complications and disrupt the drainage process.
D: Emptying the collection chamber is important but not the priority during transport; keeping the drainage system below the chest level is crucial for the client's safety.