ATI RN
Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
In assisting a physician to perform a thoracentesis to Mr. Sy, how should the nurse postion a patient with pleural effusion of the left lung?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In performing a thoracentesis for a patient with pleural effusion of the left lung, the patient should be positioned sitting at the side of the bed with both arms resting on an overbed table. This position allows for better access to the left lung area and helps the patient maintain a comfortable and stable position during the procedure. Sitting position also helps to expand the intercostal spaces, making it easier for the physician to access the pleural fluid. Additionally, having both arms resting on an overbed table helps the patient remain still and reduce the risk of injury during the procedure. Therefore, this position is the most suitable for performing a thoracentesis for a patient with pleural effusion of the left lung.
Question 2 of 5
A 39-year old male client underwent Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) eight hours ago and asks the nurse, "Why is my urine in the bag clotting like blood?" The nurse's best interpretation of this finding is that:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: After undergoing Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), it is normal for a client's urine to contain blood and form clots initially. This is because the surgery involves removing prostate tissue, which can lead to bleeding. The presence of blood clots in the urine collection bag is expected within the first 24 hours post-op. It is necessary to monitor for excessive bleeding or signs of a clot blocking the catheter, but seeing blood clots is not alarming in the immediate post-operative period.
Question 3 of 5
A client is admitted to the ICU, which laboratory result must be reported immediately to the physician?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A platelet count of 18,000 is significantly low, indicating a condition known as thrombocytopenia, which can lead to a risk of bleeding. In a critical care setting like the ICU, low platelet counts need to be addressed urgently to prevent serious complications such as hemorrhage. This result must be reported immediately to the physician so that appropriate interventions, such as transfusion of platelets, can be initiated promptly to manage the patient's condition effectively. Hematocrit, paCO2, and WBC count may also be important parameters to monitor in an ICU patient, but the critically low platelet count poses the most immediate threat to the patient's well-being and requires urgent attention.
Question 4 of 5
Mr. Go had a post-kidney transplant. What should the nurse immediately assess?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: After a kidney transplant, it is essential for the nurse to immediately assess for fluid and electrolyte imbalances in the recipient. The transplanted kidney may take some time to start functioning optimally, and during this period, the body may not be able to regulate fluid and electrolyte balance effectively. Monitoring for signs of fluid overload, electrolyte disturbances, and kidney function is crucial to prevent complications such as dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, and organ rejection. Early detection of these imbalances allows for prompt intervention and prevention of potential complications.
Question 5 of 5
On the third day after a partial thyroidectomy, a client exhibits muscle twitching and hyperirritability of the nervous system. When questioned, the client reports numbness and tingling of the mouth and fingertips. Suspecting a life- threatening electrolyte disturbance, the nurse notifies the surgeon immediately. Which electrolyte disturbance most commonly follows thyroid surgery?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hypocalcemia is the most common electrolyte disturbance that follows thyroid surgery, particularly after a partial thyroidectomy. This occurs due to inadvertent injury or removal of the parathyroid glands, which are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the body. The symptoms of hypocalcemia, such as muscle twitching, hyperirritability of the nervous system, numbness, and tingling, align with the client's presentation in this scenario. Prompt recognition and treatment of hypocalcemia are crucial to prevent life-threatening complications like tetany or seizures. Therefore, the nurse's decision to notify the surgeon immediately is appropriate to address this electrolyte imbalance.