Fundamentals Flashcards

1
Q

The nurse notes blanching, coolness, and edema at the peripheral insertion (IV) site. On the basis of these findings, the nurse would implement which action first?
1. Remove the IV
2. Apply a warm compress
3. Check for a blood return
4. Measure the area of infiltration

A

Answer: 1
As infiltration can be damaging to the surrounding tissue, the appropriate first action is to remove the IV to oprevent further damage. Once the IV is removed, further action would be taken, depending on the medication infusing @ the time of infiltration and based on agency protocol. This may include aspiration of fluid from the site, injection of an antidote, application of warm or cool compresses for specified time intervals, or elevation of the extremity.

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2
Q

The nurse has received the client assignment for the day. Which client would the nurse assess first?
1. The client who has a nasogastric tube attached to intermittent suction
2. The client who needs to receive subQ insulin before breakfast
3. The client who is 2 days postoperative and is complaining of incisional pain
4. The client who has a blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL (2.8 mmol/L) and complains of blurred vision

A

Answer: 4
This pt has a low blood glucose level and symptoms reflective of hypoglycemia. This pt should be assessed first so that treatment can be implemented. Once this pt is sbalized the assessments of the other pts can be done.

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3
Q

The nurse prepares to care for a pt on contact precautions who has a hospital-acquired infection caused by MRSA. The pt has an abdominal wound the requires irrigation and has a tracheostomy attached to a mechanical ventilator, which requires frequent suctioning. The nurse would assemble which necessary protective items before entering the pt’s room?
1. Gloves and gown
2. Gloves and face shield
3. Gloves, gown, and face shield
4. Gloves, gown, and shoe protectors

A

Answer: 3
Because of the potential for splashes of infective material occurring during the ewound irrigation or suctioning of the tracheosomy

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4
Q

A pt w/ end-stand chronic COPD has selected guided imagery to help cope w/ psychological stress. Which pt statement indicates the best understanding of this stress-reducation measure?
1. “This will help only if I play music @ the same time.”
2. “This will work for me if I am alone in a quiet area.”
3. “I need to do this when I lie down in case i fall asleep.”
4. “The best thing about this is that I can use it anywhere, anytime.”

A

Answer: 4
Guided imagery involves the pt creating an image in the mind, concentrating on the image, and gradually becoming less aware of the offending stimulus. It can be done anytime and anywhere; some pts may use other relaxation techniques or play music w/ it.

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5
Q

A pt w/ Parkinson’s disease develops akinesia while ambulating, increasing the risk for falls. Which suggestion would the nurse provide to the pt to alleviate this problem?
1. Use a wheelchair to move around
2. Stand erect and use a cane to ambulate
3. Keep the feet close together while ambulating and use a walker
4. Consciously think about walking over imaginary lines on the floor

A

Answer: 4
Pts w/ Parkinson’s disease can develop bradkinesia (slow movement) or akinesia (freezing or no movement). Having these pts imagine lines on teh floor to walk over can keep them moving forward while remaining safe.

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6
Q

The nurse monitors a pt receiving a digoxin for which early manifestation of digoxin toxicity?
1. Anorexia
2. Facial pain
3. Photophobia
4. Yellow color preception

A

Answer: 1
Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that is used to manage and treat heart feailure in some pts and to control ventricular rates in some pts w/ A-fib. Teh most common early manifestations of toxicity include GI disturbances (anorexia, N/V); neurological abnormalities (fatigue, headache, weakness, depression, drowsiness, confusion, and nightmares. Other signs include facial pain, personality changes, and ocular disturbances (photophobia, diplopia, light flashes, halos around bright objects, yellow or green color perception), are later signs of toxicity.

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7
Q

A MRI study is prescribed for a pt w/ a suspected brain tumor. The nurse would implement which action to prepare the pt for this test?
1. Shave the groin for insertion of a femoral catheter
2. Remove all metal-containing objects from the pt
3. Keep the pt NPO for 6 hrs before the test
4. Instruct the pt in inhalation techniques for administration of a radioisotope.

A

Answer: 2
In a MRI study, radiofrquency pulses in a magnetic field are converted into pictures. All metal objects (rings, bracelets, hairpins, and watches) should be removed. In addition, a hx should be taken to ascertain whether the pt has any internal metallic devices (orthopedic hardware, pacemakers, or shrapnel). An IV cathter may be inserted if a contrast agent is prescribed. A femoral catheter is not used for this diagnostic test. Shaving is not a common practice d/t risk for microabrasions and infection. If needed, hair may be clipped away from an insertion site. NPO status is not necessary for an MRI study of the head. Inhalation of a radioisotope may be prescribed w/ other types of scans, but it i is not part of the procedures for a MRI.

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8
Q

A pt w/ renial insufficiency has a magnesium level of 3.5 mEq/L (1.44 mol/L). On the basis of this lab result, the nurse interprets which sign as significant?
1. Hyperpnea
2. Drowsiness
3. Hypertension
4. Physical hyperactivity

A

Answer: 2
The normal magnesium level is 1.8 to 2.6 mEq/L (0.74 to 1.07 mmol/L). A magnesium level of 3.5 mEq/L (1.44 mol/L) indicates hypermagnesemia. Neurological manifestations begin to occur when magnesium levels are elevated and are noted as symptoms neurological depression (drowsiness, sedation, lethargy, respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and areflexia) , as well as bradycardia and hypotension.

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9
Q

A client is scheduled for angioplasty. The pt says to the nurse “I’m so afraid that it will hurt and will make me worse off than I am.” Which response by the nurse is therapeutic?
1. “Can you tell me what you understand about the procedure?’
2. “Your fears are a sign that you really should have this procedure.”
3. “Those are very normal fears, but please be assured that everything will be okay.”
4. “Try not to worry. This is a well-known and easy procedure for the cardiologist.”

A

Answer: 1
Correct option utilizes a therapeutic communication technique that explores the pt’s feelings, determine the level of pt understanding about the procedure, and displays caring. Option 2 demeans the pt and does not encourage further sharing by the pt. Option 3 does not address the pt’s fears, provides false reassurance, and puts the pt’s feelings on hold. Option 4 diminishes the pt’s feelings by directing attention away from the pt and toward the cardiologist’s importance.

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10
Q

The nurse is caring for a hospitalized pt w/ a diagnosis of heart failure who suddenly complains of SOB and dyspnea during activity. After assisting the pt to bed and placing the pt in high-Fowler’s position, the nurse would take which immediate action?
1. Administer high-flow O2 to the pt
2. Call the consulting cardiologist to report the findings
3. Prepare to administer an additional dose of furosemide
4. Obtain a set of vital signs and perform focused respiratory and cardiovascular assessments

A

Answer: 4
The pt’s SOB and dyspnea may be d/t the development of pulmonary edema (complication of heart failure) or it could be heart failure exacerbation which may be expected partidcularly on exertion or during activity. Use the nursing process and note that the vital signs and assessment data would be needed before administering O2, administering medications, or contacting the cardiologist. Although the cardiologist may need to be notified, this is not the immediate action. B/c there is no data in the question that indicate the presence of pulmonary edema, Option 4 is correct.

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11
Q

The nurse is caring for a pt w/ terminal cancer. The nurse would consider which factor when planning pain relief?
1. Not all pain is real
2. Opioid analgesics are highly addictive
3. Opioid analgesics can cause tachycardia
4. Around-the-clock dosing gives better pain relief than as-needed dosing

A

Answer: 4
Around-the-clock dosing provides ↑ pain relief and ↓ stressors associated w/ pain (anxiety, fear). Pain is what the pt describes it as, and any indication of pain should be perceived as real for the pt. Opioid analgesics may be addictive, but this is not a concern for the pt w/ terminal cancer. Not all opioid analgesics cause tachycardia.

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12
Q

The nurse is caring for a pt who just returned from the recovery room after undergoing abdominal surgery. The nurse would monitor for which early sign of hypovolemic shock?
1. Sleepiness
2. Increased pulse rate
3. Increased depth of respiration
4. Increased orientation to surroundings

A

Answer: 2
Think about the pathophysiology that occurs in hypovolemic shock to direct you to the correct option. Restlessness is one of the earilest signs, followed by cardiovascular changes (↑ HR and ↓ BP). Sleepiness is expected in a pt who has just returned from surgery. Alhtough increased depth of respirations occurs in hypovolemic shock, it is not an early sign. Rather, it occurs as the shock progresses– it is important to discern beteween early and late signs of impending shock. Increased orientation to surroundings is expected and will occur as the effects of anesthesia resolve.

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13
Q

The nurse is teaching a pt in skeletal leg traction about measures to increase bed mobility. Which item would be the most helpful for this pt?
1. Television
2. Fracture bed pan
3. Overhead trapeze
4. Reading materials

A

Answer: 3
The use of an overhead trapeze is extremely helpful in assisting a pt to move about in bed and to get on and off the bedpan

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14
Q

The nurse provides medication instructions to a pt about digoxin. Which statement by the pt indicates understanding of its adverse effects?
1. “Blurred vision is expected.”
2. “If my pulse rate drops below 60 beats per minute, I should let my cardiologist know.”
3. “If I am nauseated or vomiting, I should stay on liquids and take some liquid antacids.”
4. “This medication may cause headache and weakness, but that is nothing to worry about.”

A

Answer: 2
Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside and works by ↑ contractility of the heart. THis medication has a narrow therapeutic range, and toxicity is a major concern. Currentl, it is considered 2nd-line treatment for heart failure b/c of its narrow therapeutic range and potential for adverse effects. Adverse effects that indicate toxicity include GI disturbances, neurological abnormalities, bradycardia, or other cardiac irregularities, and ocular disturbances. If any of these occurs, the cardiologist is notified. Additionally, the pt needs to notify the cardiologist if the pulse rate drops below 60 bpm, b/c serious dysrhythmias are another potential adverse effect of digoxin therapy.

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15
Q

The nurse has provided discharge instructions to a pt who has undergone a right mastectomy w/ axillary lymph node dissection. Which statement by the pt indicates a need for further teaching regarding home care measures?
1. “I should use a straight razor to shave under my arms.”
2. “I should inform all of my other doctors that I have had this surgical procedure.”
3. “I need to be sure that I do not have blood pressures or blood drawn from my right arm.”
4. “I need to be sure to wear thick mitt hand covers or use thick pot holders when I am cooking and touching hot pans.”

A

Answer: 1
Recall that edema and infection are concerns w/ this pt d/t the removal of lymph nodes in the surgical area. Lymphadenopathy w/ associated lymphedema can result, and the pt needs to be instructed in the measures that will avoid trauma to the affected arm. Recalling that trauma to the affect arm could potentially result in edema and/or infection will direct you to the correct option.

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16
Q

A pt w/ a diagnosis of cancer is receivign morhpine sulfate for pain. The nurse would plan to employ which priority action in the care of the pt?
1. Monitor stools
2. Monitor urine output
3. Encourage fluid intake
4. Encourage the pt to cough and deep breathe

A

Answer: 4
Use ABCs– airway, breathing, circulation as a guide. Recall that morphine sulfate suppresses the cough reflex and the respiratory reflex, and a common adverse effect is respiratory depression. Coughing and deep breathing can assist w/ ensuring adequate oxygenation, since the # of respirations per minute can potentially be decreased in a pt receiving this medication. Although option 1, 2, and 3 are components of the plan of care, the correct option addresses ariway and breathing.

17
Q

A pt who had an application of a right arm cast c/o pain @ the wrist when the arm is passively moved. Based on the assessment findings, the nurse recognizes cues that indicate the need to take which action first?
1. Elevate the arm
2. Document the findings
3. Medicate w/ an additional dose of an opioid
4. Check for paresthesias and paralysis of the right arm

A

Answer: 4
As the pt c/o pain @ the wrist when the arm is passively moved, this could indicate an abnormality; therefore further assessment or action is required. Use the steps of the nursing process remembering that assessment is the first step. Options 1, 2, and 3 address the implementation of the nursing process and option 4 is the only option that addresses assessment. The arm in a cast should have already been elevated. The pt may be experiencing compartment syndrome, a complication following trauma to the extremities and application of a cast. Additional data need to be collected to determine whether this complication is present.

18
Q

The nurse reviews ABG results of a pt and notes the following: pH 7.45, PCO2 30 mmHg, and HCO3 22 mEq/L. THe nurse analyzes these results as indicating which condition?
1. Metabolic acidosis, compensated
2. Respiratory alkalosis, compensated
3. Metabolic alkalosis, uncompensated
4. Respiratory acidosis, uncompensated

A

Answer: 2
The normal pH is 7.35 to 7.45. In a respiratory condition, an opposite effect will be seen btwn the pH and the PCO2. In this situation, the pH is at the high end of the normal value and the PCO2 is low. So, you can eliminate options 1 and 3. In an alkalotic condition, the pH is elevated. THe values identified indicate a respiratory alkalosis. Compensation occurs when the pH returns to a normal value. B/c the pH is in the normal range @ the high end, compensation has occured.

19
Q

The home care nurse visits a pt who has cataracts. The nurse identifies which problem as the priority for this pt?
1. Concern about the loss of eyesight
2. Altered vision d/t opacity of the ocular lens
3. Difficulty moving around b/c of the need for classes
4. Loneliness b/c of decreased community immersion

A

Answer: 2
Use Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory to answer the question, remembering that physiological needs are the priority. Concern and lonelinesss are psychosocial needs and would be the last priorities. Note that the correct option directly addresses the pt’s problem.

20
Q

The nurse is caring for a pt who is receiving total parenteral nutrition through a CVC. Which action would the nurse plan to decrease the risk of infection in this pt?
1. Track the pt’s oral temperature
2. Administer the antibiotics intravenously
3. Check the differential of the leukocytes
4. Use sterile techniques for dressing changes

A

Answer: 4
Sterile technique is vital during dressing changes of a CVC. CVCs are large-bore catheters that can serve as a direct entry point for microorganisms into the heart and circulatory system. Using aseptic technique helps avoid catether-related infections by preventing the introduction of potential pathogens to the site. Although the remaining options are reasonable nursing interventions for a pt w/ CVC, none of them prevents infection. Options 1 and 3 are assessment methods, and option 2 is implemented after the confirmation of an existing infection. The only option that will prevent infection is the correct option.

21
Q

The nurse is caring for a hospitalized pt w/ coronary artery disease who begins to experience chest pain. The nurse administers a nitroglycerin tablet sublingually as prescribed, but the pain is unrelieved. The nurse would take which action next?
1. Reposition the pt
2. Call the pt’s family
3. Contact the cardiologist
4. Administer another nitroglycerin tablet

A

Answer: 4
Use the implementation step in the nursing process in order to address the unrelieved chest pain. You may think it is necessary to check the blood pressure before administering another tablet, which is correct. However, checking the blood pressure is not one of the options. Recalling that nurse would adminsiter 3 nitroglycerin tablets 5 minutes apart from each other relieve chest pain in a hosptialized pt will assist in directing yhou to the correct option.

22
Q

The nurse evaluates the pt’s response to treatment of pleural effusion w/ a chest tube. The nurse notes a respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute, fluctuation of the fluid level in the water seal chamber, and a decrease in the amount of drainage by 30 mL since the previous shift. On evaluation, which interpretation would the nurse make?
1. The pt is responding well to treatment
2. Suction should be decreased to the system
3. The system should be assessed for an air leak
4. Water should be added to the water seal chamber

A

Answer: 1
Utilize the evaluation step of the nursing process. Determine whether an abnormality exists based on the data. Remember that fluctuation in the water seal chamber in a normal and expected finding w/ a chest tube. B/c the pt is being treated for a pleural effusion, it can be determined that the pt is responding well to treatment if the amount of drainage is gradually decreasing b/c the fluid from the pleural effusion is being effectively removed. If the drainage were to stop suddenly, the chest tube would be assessed for a kink or blockage. There is no indication based on the data in the question to decrease suction to the system. There are is no data indicating an air leak or a need to add water to the water seal chamber.

23
Q

The nurse is caring for a pt who is taking digoxin and is c/o nausea. The nurse gathers additional assessment data and checksd the most recent lab results. Which lab value requires the need for follow-up by the nurse?
1. Sodium 138 mEq/L
2. Potassium 3.3 mEq/L
3. Phosphorous 3.1 mg/dL
4. Magnesium 1.8 mg/dL

A

Answer: 2
Determine whether an abnormality exists. The pt is taking digoxin and is c/o nausea and the nurse should suspect toxicity as a possible hypothesis. The normal reference range for sodium is 135 to 145 mEq/L; potassium 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L; phosphorous 3.0 to 4.5 mg/dL; and magnesium 1.8 to 2.5 mEq/dL. The lab values noted are all within normal range except for the potassium level. Recall that the potassium level must stay consistent while the pt is taking digoxin to prevent adverse effects such as toxicity from occuring.

24
Q

The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a pt w/ diabetes mellitus. The pt’s glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level is 10%. The nurse would make which statement?
1. “Increase the amount of vegetables and water intake in your diet regimen.”
2. “Change the time of day you exercise b/c it may cause hypoglycemia.”
3. “Continue w/ the same diet and exercise regimen you are currently using.”
4. “Start a high-intensity exercise regimen and decrease carbohydrate consumption.”

A

Answer: 1
Determine that HbA1c level is above the recommended range for a pt w/ diabetes mellitus, and indciates poor glycemic control. Therefore an abnormality exists so choose the option that addresses this. Option 1 is a safe recommendation to make to a diabetic pt, and will help to reduce the HbA1c level. Changing the time of day for exercise and continuing w/ the same diet and exercise regimen will not address the pt’s problem. Initiating a high-intensity exercise regimen and ↓ carbohydrate consumption could potentially result in a hypoglycemic reaction, and does not ensure pt safety.

25
Q

A pt scheduled for surgery states to the nurse, “I’m not sure if I should have this surgery.” Which response by the nurse is appropriate?
1. “It’s your decision.”
2. “Don’t worry. Everything will be fine.”
3. “Why don’t you want to have this surgery?”
4. “Tell me what concerns you have about the surgery.”

A

Answer: 4
Remember to address the pt’s feelings and concerns. Additionally, asking the pt about what specific concerns they have about the surgery will allow for further decisions in the treatment process to be made. Option 1 is a blunt response and does not address the pt’s concern. Option 2 provides false reassurance. Option 3 can make the pt feel defensive and uses the nontherapeutic communication technique of asking “why.” The correct option is the only one that addresses the pt’s concern.

26
Q

The nurse is caring for a group of pts. On review of the pt’s medical records, the nurse determines that which pt is at risk for excess fluid volume?
1. The pt taking diuretics
2. The pt w/ an ileostomy
3. The pt w/ kidney disease
4. The pt undergoing GI suctioning

A

Answer: 3
Think about the pathphysiology associated w/ each condition identified in the options. The only pt who retains fluid is the pt w/ kidney disease. The pt taking diuretics, the pt w/ an ileostomy, and the pt undergoing GI suctioning all lose fluid.

27
Q

A pt admitted to the hospital is diagnosed w/ a pressure injury on the coccyx and has a wound vac. The wound culture results indicate that MRSA is present. The wound dressing and wound vac foam are due to be changed. The nurse would employ which protective precautions to prevent contraction of the infection during care?
1. Gloves and a mask
2. Contact Precautions
3. Airborne precautions
4. Face shield and gloves

A

Answer: 2
Recall that contact precautions involve the use of gown and gloves for routine care, and the use of gown, gloves, and face shield if splashing is anticipated during care.

28
Q

The nurse in charge of a long-term care facility is planning the pt assignments for the day. Which pt would the nruse assign to the assistive personnel (AP)?
1. A pt on strict bed rest
2. A pt w/ dyspnea who is receiving O2 therapy
3. A pt scheduled for transfer to the hospital for surgery
4. A pt w/ a gastrostomy tube who requires tube feedings every 4 hrs

A

Answer: 1
A pt w/ dyspnea who is receiving O2 therapy, a pt scheduled for transfer to the hospital for surgery, or a pt w/ a gastrostomy tube who requires tube feedings every 4 hours has both physiological and psychosocial needs that require care by a licensed nurse. The AP has been trained to care for a pt on bed rest.

29
Q

Lisinopril is prescribed as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of heart failure. After adminstering the first dose, the nurse would monitor which item as the priority?
1. Weight
2. Urine output
3. Lung sounds
4. Blood pressure

A

Answer: 4
Recall that the medications names of most angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors end with “-pril,” and one of the indications for use of these medications is hypertension. Excessive hypotension (“first-dose syncope”) can occur in pts w/ heart failure or in pts who are severely sodium-depleted or volume-depleted. Although weight, urine output, and lung sounds would be monitored, monitoring the blood pressure is the priority.