While teaching a client about their medications, the client asks how long it will take before the effects of lithium take place. What is the best response of the nurse?
- A. Immediately.
- B. Several days.
- C. 2 weeks.
- D. 1 month.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Lithium typically takes 2 weeks to show therapeutic effects.
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A client is 1-day postoperative following a left lower lobectomy and has a chest tube in place. When assessing the client's three-chamber drainage system, the nurse notes that there is no bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Continue to monitor the client as this is an expected finding.
- B. Add more water to the suction control chamber of the drainage system.
- C. Verify that the suction regulator is on and check the tubing for leaks.
- D. Milk the chest tube and dislodge any clots in the tubing that are occluding it.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Verify that the suction regulator is on and check the tubing for leaks.
Rationale:
1. Lack of bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates suction may not be working.
2. Checking the suction regulator ensures it is on and at the correct level for proper drainage.
3. Checking tubing for leaks ensures the system is intact and functioning properly.
4. This intervention addresses the potential issue of inadequate suction, which can affect the client's postoperative recovery.
Summary:
- Option A: Continuing to monitor is not appropriate as lack of bubbling suggests an issue with suction.
- Option B: Adding more water to the suction control chamber is unnecessary and does not address the root cause.
- Option D: Milking the chest tube is not recommended as it can cause trauma and dislodging clots may lead to complications.
According to the Corbin and Strauss chronic illness trajectory, which statement describes a patient with an unstable condition?
- A. Life-threatening situation
- B. Increasing disability and symptoms
- C. Gradual return to acceptable way of life
- D. Loss of control over symptoms and disease course
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: An unstable condition reflects loss of control over symptoms and disease progression, indicating difficulty managing health effectively.
Stephen Douglas has been in an automobile accident. The most effective IV solution for a patient having hypovolemic shock would be:
- A. hypertonic.
- B. isotonic.
- C. hypotonic.
- D. colloids.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hypertonic IV fluids would be used to draw fluid off tissue in edematous situations such as third spacing. Isotonic solutions are used to increase intravascular volume, to increase perfusion of vital organs. Hypotonic fluids are used to rehydrate tissue in those with severe, or prolonged fluid deprivation. Colloids increase tonicity of intravascular fluids, pulling water into the vascular system from tissue.
When admitting a client with active tuberculosis to a room on a medical-surgical unit, which of the following room assignments should the nurse make?
- A. A room with air exhaust directly to the outdoor environment
- B. A room with another nonsurgical client
- C. A room in the ICU
- D. A room that is within view of the nurses' station
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: a room with air exhaust directly to the outdoor environment. This is to prevent the spread of tuberculosis to other patients and healthcare workers. Tuberculosis is an airborne disease, so proper ventilation is crucial. Choice B is incorrect as placing the client with another nonsurgical client may increase the risk of transmission. Choice C is not ideal as the ICU may have other vulnerable patients. Choice D is also incorrect as the proximity to the nurses' station does not address the need for proper ventilation to prevent the spread of tuberculosis.
Before administering a benzodiazepine, what should the nurse assess?
- A. Sleep problems
- B. Memory impairment
- C. Cognitive disorder
- D. Behavior changes
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Behavioral changes may indicate underlying issues or contraindications for benzodiazepines.
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