NCLEX-RN
Implementation Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client who has experienced a stroke has episodes of coughing while swallowing liquids. The client has developed a temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) and an oxygen saturation of 91% (down from 98% previously), is slightly confused, and has noticeable dyspnea. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The client is exhibiting clinical signs and symptoms of aspiration, which include fever, dyspnea, decreased arterial oxygen levels, and confusion. Other symptoms that occur with this complication are difficulty with managing saliva or coughing or choking while eating. Because the client has developed a complication that requires medical intervention, the most appropriate action is to contact the primary health care provider. The remaining options are not related to the management of aspiration.
Question 2 of 5
Which is the most important laboratory result for the nurse to present to the primary health care provider on a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Serum electrolyte levels are critical to monitor in a client receiving TPN because TPN solutions contain high concentrations of glucose and electrolytes, which can lead to imbalances such as hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, or hyponatremia. These imbalances can cause serious complications, including cardiac dysrhythmias or neurological issues. While white blood cell count, arterial blood gas levels, and hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are important, they are not as directly related to the immediate risks associated with TPN administration as electrolyte levels.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse prepares to admit a newborn born with spina bifida, myelomeningocele. Which nursing action is most important for the care for this infant?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Intracranial pressure is a complication that is associated with spina bifida. A sign of intracranial pressure in the newborn infant with spina bifida is a bulging anterior fontanel. The newborn infant is at risk for infection before the surgical procedure and the closure of the gibbus, and monitoring the temperature is an important intervention; however, assessing the anterior fontanel for bulging is most important. A normal saline dressing is placed over the affected site to maintain the moisture of the sac and its contents. This prevents tearing or breakdown of skin integrity at the site. Blood pressure is difficult to assess during the newborn period, and it is not the best indicator of infection or a potential complication. Urine concentration is not well developed during the newborn stage of development.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is asked to assist another health care team member with providing care for a client. On entering the client's room, the nurse notes that the client is placed in this position (refer to figure). After maintaining the client position, what should the nurse interpret that this client is most likely being treated for?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A client in shock is placed in a modified Trendelenburg's position that includes elevating the legs, leaving the trunk flat, and elevating the head and shoulders slightly. This position promotes increased venous return from the lower extremities without compressing the abdominal organs against the diaphragm. The Trendelenburg position is no longer recommended for hypotensive clients because the client is predisposed to aspiration and worsens gas exchange. The remaining options identify conditions in which the head of the client's bed would be elevated.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse responds to a call bell and finds a client lying on the floor after a fall. The nurse suspects that the client's arm may be broken. Which immediate action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When a fracture is suspected, it is imperative that the area be splinted before the client is moved. Emergency help should be called for if the client is external to a hospital, and a primary health care provider is called if the client is hospitalized. Vital signs would be taken, but this is not the immediate action. The primary health care provider rather than the nurse prescribes an x-ray examination. The nurse should remain with the client and provide realistic reassurance. Although the details of the fall are important, such a discussion is not an immediate need.