Nokea
Which task for a patient with neutropenia is appropriate for the registered nurse (RN) to delegate to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)?
- A. Assessing the patient for signs and symptoms of infection
- B. Teaching the patient the purpose of neutropenic precautions
- C. Administering subcutaneous filgrastim (Neupogen) injection
- D. Developing a discharge teaching plan for the patient and family
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because administering subcutaneous medications falls within the education and scope of practice of an LPN/LVN. Assessing the patient for signs and symptoms of infection, teaching the patient, and developing a discharge plan are tasks that require an RN level of education and scope of practice. LPN/LVNs can assist in patient care, but tasks that involve assessment, teaching, and care planning are typically the responsibility of an RN.
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The health care provider's progress note for a patient states that the complete blood count (CBC) shows a 'shift to the left.' Which assessment finding will the nurse expect?
- A. Cool extremities
- B. Pallor and weakness
- C. Elevated temperature
- D. Low oxygen saturation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Elevated temperature. When a CBC shows a 'shift to the left,' it indicates elevated levels of immature polymorphonuclear neutrophils (bands), which is a sign of infection. In response to the infection, the body increases its temperature as part of the immune response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because cool extremities, pallor and weakness, and low oxygen saturation are not typically associated with a 'shift to the left' in a CBC; they are more indicative of other conditions or issues.
A patient with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) has an order for a platelet transfusion. Which information indicates that the nurse should consult with the healthcare provider before obtaining and administering platelets?
- A. Platelet count is 42,000/µL
- B. Petechiae are present on the chest
- C. Blood pressure (BP) is 94/56 mm Hg
- D. Blood is oozing from the venipuncture site
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Platelet transfusions are not usually indicated until the platelet count is below 10,000 to 20,000/µL unless the patient is actively bleeding. In this case, with a platelet count of 42,000/µL, the count is not critically low, and the patient is not actively bleeding. Therefore, the nurse should consult with the healthcare provider before giving the transfusion. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the presence of petechiae, low blood pressure, and oozing from the venipuncture site are common findings in patients with ITP and do not necessarily require immediate consultation before administering a platelet transfusion.
The nurse assesses a patient with pernicious anemia. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect?
- A. Yellow-tinged sclerae
- B. Shiny, smooth tongue
- C. Numbness of the extremities
- D. Gum bleeding and tenderness
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Numbness of the extremities. Numbness of the extremities is a common finding in patients with pernicious anemia, which is caused by cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency. This deficiency affects the peripheral nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms like numbness and tingling in the extremities. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: Yellow-tinged sclerae is more indicative of jaundice or liver dysfunction, a shiny smooth tongue is seen in conditions like glossitis, and gum bleeding and tenderness are associated with periodontal disease or vitamin C deficiency, not pernicious anemia.
Which menu choice indicates that the patient understands the nurse's teaching about recommended dietary choices for iron-deficiency anemia?
- A. Omelet and whole wheat toast
- B. Cantaloupe and cottage cheese
- C. Strawberry and banana fruit plate
- D. Cornmeal muffin and orange juice
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Cornmeal muffin and orange juice." Cornmeal muffin is a good source of iron, which is beneficial for individuals with iron-deficiency anemia. Orange juice is high in vitamin C, which aids in iron absorption. Choices A, B, and C do not specifically address the need for iron-rich foods, making them less suitable for someone with iron-deficiency anemia. Omelet and whole wheat toast (Choice A) may provide some iron but are not as focused on addressing the specific deficiency. Cantaloupe and cottage cheese (Choice B) and strawberry and banana fruit plate (Choice C) are more general fruit choices and do not emphasize iron-rich options.
The nurse is caring for a patient who is being discharged after an emergency splenectomy following a motor vehicle crash. Which instructions should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Check frequently for swollen lymph nodes.
- B. Watch for excessive bleeding or bruising.
- C. Take iron supplements to prevent anemia.
- D. Wash hands regularly and avoid individuals who are ill.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Wash hands regularly and avoid individuals who are ill.' After a splenectomy, the patient is at an increased risk of infection, particularly from gram-positive bacteria. Proper hand hygiene and avoiding contact with sick individuals are crucial to prevent infections. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because checking for swollen lymph nodes, watching for excessive bleeding or bruising, and taking iron supplements are not specifically related to the increased infection risk post-splenectomy.