Test Bank for Medical-Surgical Nursing: Critical Thinking in Client Care, Exams of Nursing

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Test Bank for Medical-Surgical Nursing Critical Thinking in

Client Care, Questions with Answers Latest Updated 2025

Chapter 1

1. The nurse is caring for four clients on a medical–surgical unit. Which client should the nurse

see initially?

1. (^) A client admitted with hepatitis A who has had severe diarrhea for the last 24 hours

A client admitted with pneumonia who is has small amounts of

yellow productive sputum

3. (^) A client admitted with fever of unknown origin (FUO) who has been without fever for the last 48 hours
4. (^) A client admitted with a wound infection whose WBC is 8,500 mm 3 Answer: 1 Rationale: The nurse must decide which client should be seen on the initial rounds of the day. The nurse must remember that the first client to be seen should be the client who needs the attention of the nurse initially. A client with hepatitis A does experience diarrhea, but diarrhea for the last 24 hours could cause the client to have a problem with dehydration and experience a state of fluid volume deficit. Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment Nursing Process: Planning

2. The nurse is preparing to administer influenza vaccines to a mass drive-through clinic. Which

statement by a client would indicate further questioning prior to giving the client the influenza vaccine?

1. “I am allergic to horse hair.”

2. “I try to get my vaccine every year.”

3. “I am not allergic to anything except eggs.”

4. “My husband had a severe allergic reaction after he received his influenza

vaccine.” Answer: 3 Rationale: Influenza vaccines are recommended for person at high risk for serious sequelae of influenza. The nurse should be aware that client with a sensitivity to eggs should not receive the vaccine. Vaccines prepared from chicken or duck embryos are contraindicated in clients who are allergic to eggs.

Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment

fluids. It is not necessary for the nurse to wear gloves while delivering food trays to the client, because there is not contact with the client. Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment Nursing Process: Evaluation

5. The admitting department alerts the nurse on a medical–surgical unit that a client with active

tuberculosis (TB) is being admitted to the unit. Which type of isolation is appropriate based on the client’s diagnosis?

1. Standard precautions

2. Airborne precautions

3. Droplet precautions

4. Contact precautions

Answer: 2 In addition to handwashing and standard precautions, the nature and spread of some infectious diseases require that special techniques be used to protect uninfected clients and workers. The client with pulmonary tuberculosis will be placed in airborne precautions. The client should be placed in a private room with special ventilation that does not allow air to circulate to general hospital ventilation; a mask or special filter respirators will be used for everyone entering the room. Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment Nursing Process: Assessment

6. A client is receiving IV vancomycin for the treatment of Clostridium difficile. The nurse

understands that the client who develops flushing, tachycardia, and hypotension during the infusion of vancomycin indicates:

1. Ototoxicity effect.

2. Superinfection.

3. Red man syndrome.

4. Hives.

Answer: 3 Rationale: Vancomycin inhibits cell wall synthesis, and is used for serious infections. It is only effective against gram-positive bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The nurse should infuse this medication slowly over 60 minutes or more to avoid “red man” syndrome. The syndrome is characterized by

erythematous rash, flushing, tachycardia, and hypotension. Clients can become dizzy and agitated. Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Physiological Integrity Nursing Process: Evaluation

7. The physician has ordered for the client to receive a trough blood level to evaluate the

therapeutic effect of an antibiotic. The nurse understands that the trough should be ordered:

1. A few minutes before the next scheduled dose of medication.

2. 1–2 hours after the oral administration of the medication.

3. 30 minutes after the IV administration.

4. During the infusion of the antibiotic.

Answer: 1 Rationale: Antibiotic peak and trough levels monitor therapeutic blood levels of the prescribed medication. The therapeutic range—the minimum and maximum blood levels at which the drug is effective—is known for a given drug. By measuring blood levels at the predicted peak (1– hours after oral administration, 1 hour after intramuscular administration, and 30 minutes after IV administration) and trough (usually a few minutes before the next scheduled dose), it is also possible to determine whether the drug is reaching a toxic or harmful level during therapy, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects. Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment Nursing Process: Assessment

8. The nurse needs to change a dressing on the client’s abdomen. Which of the following

techniques should be implemented?

1. Contact precautions

2. Standard precautions

3. Droplet precautions

4. Airborne precautions

Answer: 2 Rationale: Standard precautions are used on all clients, regardless of whether they have a know infectious disease. Standard precautions are used by all healthcare workers who

11. A client develops hyperthermia related to a diagnosis of Pneumonia. Which of the

following nursing interventions would be effective in the treatment of hyperthermia? Select all that apply.

1. Increase the temperature of the room environment to prevent shivering.

2. Use ice packs and a tepid bath as needed.

3. Administer antipyretic medications per physician’s orders.

4. Promote frequent rest periods to increase energy reserve.

5. Restrict fluids during periods of hyperthermia because of the risk of

electrolyte imbalance. Answer: 2; 3; 4 Rationale: Hyperthemia is an expected consequence of the infectious disease process. Fever can produce mild, short-term effects or, when prolonged, can cause life- threatening effects. The nurse should administer antipyretic medications as indicated for elevated temperatures. The nurse should use ice packs, cool/tepid baths, or hypothermia blanket with caution. The nurse should enforce frequent rest periods because rest increases energy reserve, which is depleted by an increased metabolic, heart, and respiratory rate. The nurse should encourage fluids rather than restrict fluids because of the risk of electrolyte imbalance. Cognitive Level: Assessment Client Needs: Physiological Integrity Nursing Process: Implementation

12. The nurse is assessing a client’s wound for signs and symptoms of inflammation. Which

of the following would alert the nurse that the client is exhibiting signs of inflammation? Select all that apply.

1. Leg edema

2. Leg cool to touch

3. Severe pain from swelling

4. Decreased peripheral pulses

5. Severe erythema of leg

Answer: 1; 3; 5 Rationale: Regardless of the cause, location, or extent of the injury, the acute inflammatory response follows the sequence of vascular response, cellular and phagocytic response, and healing. Many manifestations of inflammation are produced by inflammatory mediators such as histamines and prostaglandins released when tissue is damaged. The cardinal signs of inflammation include erythema, local heat caused by the

increased blood flow to the injured area (hyperemia), swelling due to accumulated fluid at site, pain from tissue swelling and chemical irritation of nerve endings, and loss of function caused by the swelling and pain. Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Physiological Integrity Nursing Process: Assessment Alternate item format – Select all that apply Which of the following manifestations would the nurse expect to see with a client who has had previous knee surgery who suffered a surgical infection with signs of systemic manifestations? Select all that apply.

1. (^) Erythema
2. (^) WBC 14,200 mm 3
3. (^) Pain at the surgical site
4. (^) 10% Bands
5. (^) Respiratory rate of 16
6. (^) Pulse 114 Answer: 2; 3; 6 Rationale: The client is post–surgical repair of the knee. The nurse should be able to distinguish between local reactions and system reactions. An elevated WBC and 10% bands are indicative of an infection. Vital sign changes typically associated with an infection include an elevation in temperature and tachycardia. Local manifestations include erythema, warmth, pain, edema, and functional impairment, whereas systemic manifestations include elevated temperature above 100.4°F, pulse greater than 90/min., respiratory rate greater than 20, and WBC greater than 12,000 mm^3 or > 10% bands. Cognitive Level: Application Client Needs: Physiological Integrity Nursing Process: Assessment Chapter 2

1. When collecting data at the immunization clinic, which of the following disclosures by the

client would cause the nurse to hold administration of the varicella vaccine?

needed information to the client. It also assumes the client is sedentary. Implying the client is overeating is judgmental, and will do little to establish a therapeutic rapport. The client is aware of aging. Pointing this out does little to meet the client’s obvious interest in more information. Nursing Process Step: Diagnosis Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity Client Needs Category: Physiological Adaptation Cognitive Level: Application

4. The nurse is assisting an 18-year-old female client to plan a healthy diet to support recent

weight loss. Which of the following should be included in the dietary plan? Select all that apply.

a. 200 mg folic acid are recommend in the daily diet.

b. Eat at least six servings of grains.

c. To avoid constipation, keep daily iron intake below 21 mg.

d. Fat intake should be limited to less than 30% of the daily caloric intake.

Answer: b; d Rationale: Grain intake should include at least six servings daily. To maintain a healthy weight and reduce incidence of cardiovascular disease, fat intake should not exceed 30% of the daily intake. Folic acid intake should be at 400 mg daily. Iron is a vital ingredient in the daily diet. 18 mg daily is reflective of the desired amount. Constipation should be managed by an adequate fluid and fiber intake. Nursing Process Step: Planning Client Needs Category: Health Promotion and Maintenance Client Needs Subcategory: Prevention and/or Detection of Early Health Problems Cognitive Level: Application

5. During a routine physical examination for a 52-year-old Caucasian male, the client declines

to have his prostate gland examined. He states he does not have a family history and does not feel he is at risk. What initial response by the nurse is most appropriate?

a. “You may refuse any screening test you wish.”

b. “I will need to tell the physician about your refusal.”

c. “Your risk factors increase with aging.”

d. “You are right, Caucasian men have less incidence of prostate cancer.”

Answer: c Rationale: The need for prostate screening begins at age 50. Individuals with risk factors should begin screening at age 45. The client’s age places him at an increased risk, so he should begin the screening process. While the client may refuse any testing, this does not allow the client to engage in secondary levels of prevention. The client’s refusal should be recorded in the medical record but not used as a means to coerce the client.

Nursing Process Step: Implementation Client Needs Category: Health Promotion and Maintenance Client Needs Subcategory: Growth and Development through the Lifespan Cognitive Level: Analysis

6. The nurse is preparing to teach a class for a group of new parents. The nurse is

attempting to determine what topic would be of the greatest interest to the audience. What selection would be most appropriate?

a. Safety

b. Chronic illness prevention

c. Problem-solving skills

d. Interventions to manage depression

Answer: a Rationale: The parents of small children are interested in information geared toward keeping them safe. Household safety is a priority for children of all ages. The families attending the session likely will have limited interest in preventing illness, as they typically represent a healthy segment of the population. Depression is a greater concern for older adults. Nursing Process Step: Assessment Client Needs Category: Health Promotion and Maintenance Client Needs Subcategory: Growth and Development through the Lifespan Cognitive Level: Analysis

7. An African-American male is discussing his dietary intake with the nurse. The nurse

encourages the client to keep sodium intake below 1,500 mg per day. The client reports he does not have any known risk for the development of hypertension and feels this is too restrictive. How should the nurse respond?

a. “African-Americans typically have higher sodium levels than their Caucasian

counterparts.”

b. “This is the amount of sodium intake recommended for everyone.”

c. “This is what will be best for you.”

d. “Do you eat a great deal of salt?”

Answer: a Rationale: After generations of conditioning, African-Americans frequently have higher sodium levels. The recommended sodium intake for African-Americans is slightly lower than are the levels for their Caucasian peers. Simply telling the client the recommendation is “best” does not provide an adequate level of information. The amount of salt ingested by the client should be recorded, but this is not the best response. Nursing Process Step: Implementation Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity

Cognitive Level: Analysis Chapter 3

1. A nursing student is reading about the concept of parish nursing. Which of the following statements indicates understanding of the key concepts of parish nursing?

1. “You must practice a certain faith to be involved in parish nursing.”

2. “Parish nurses are independent practitioners providing care to members of a selected

church.”

3. “Parish nursing is reserved for nurse practitioners.”

4. “Parish nurses may be employed by a hospital.”

Answer: 4 Rationale: Parish nursing seeks to provide health care to traditionally underserved populations. Involvement in parish nursing is not limited to select faiths. The parish nurse may work directly for the church involved or be contracted by the church to provide nursing services and perform referrals. Parish nursing is not limited to nurse practitioners. Nursing Process Step: Evaluation Client Needs Category: Health Promotion and Maintenance Client Needs Subcategory: Prevention and/or Early Detection of Health Problems Cognitive Level: Application

2. The mother of a severely handicapped child states she is exhausted and voices the need to “take a break” to the nurse. What type of referral would best benefit the client?

1. A respite care provider

2. Hospice care agency

3. Home care

4. Ambulatory clinic

Answer: 1 Rationale: Individuals who are faced with caring for ill or handicapped family members might need to have a “break.” The best option would be for a respite care provider. Respite care offers short in-home services in which the care provider would be freed from her duties for a short time. Hospice care is designed to assist the dying client and family members. Home health care is best for clients who are unable to leave their home for care services. Ambulatory clinics are used for clients who are in need of limited point-of-care medical services. Nursing Process Step: Implementation Clients Needs Category: Psychological Integrity Client Needs Subcategory: Coping and Adaptation Cognitive Level: Application

3. The client who lives alone indicates concerns about their ability to perform the necessary dressing changes after discharge. Which action by the nurse is indicated at this time?

1. Explain to the client that she will need to seek the assistance of a friend or neighbor to help as

needed.

2. Make a referral to the home healthcare agency preferred by the client.

5. During a home care visit, the nurse notices the client’s dressing supplies are not being kept in

a readily assessable environment. The nurse has discussed this with the client and family in previous visits. What action by the nurse is indicated?

1. Document the activities relating to the situation.

2. Continue to discuss the issues each visit.

3. Notify the physician.

4. Take the supplies and arrange to bring them back with each visit.

Answer: 1 Rationale: The nurse has attempted to address the concerns with the client and family. The client’s failures to make changes in routine indicate a lack of intent to change. Continued discussion likely will prove futile. There is no need to notify the physician at this time. Taking custody of the supplies, carrying them around and bringing them back each time, is not feasible for the nurse. Goals of the nurse are not necessarily shared by the client. Nursing Process Step: Planning Client Needs Category: Psychological Integrity Client Needs Subcategory: Coping and Adaptation Cognitive Level: Application

6. While conducting a home health care visit, the nurse is asked to administer insulin to the client’s ailing husband. What action by the nurse is indicated?

1. The nurse should refuse to administer the medication.

2. The nurse may agree to assist with the administration of the insulin this time only but should

caution the client and family that this is not the purpose for their visit.

3. The nurse should contact the physician for the husband for an order for the medication.

4. The nurse should contact his supervisor to obtain permission to administer the

medication. Answer: 1 Rationale: The home healthcare nurse is there to care for the client. Providing nursing services for the other members of the household is not appropriate. Legal issues would preclude the nurse from providing care without an order. Making contact with the physician is not appropriate, as the client’s husband is not a client of the home health agency. Nursing Process Step: Implementation Client Needs Category: Safe, Effective Care Environment Client Needs Subcategory: Management of Care Cognitive Level: Analysis

7. The home health nurse observes several small, round bruises on the back side of an elderly client’s arms. What action by the nurse is indicated first?

1. Question the client about the cause of the bruises.

2. Discuss the bruises with the client’s spouse.

3. Document the bruises, with plans to review them for changes on the next visit.

4. Contact the home health supervisor to report the findings.

Answer: 1 Rationale: The client should be asked about the cause of the bruises. Nurses suspecting abuse are legally required to report it. Pending the client’s response, the supervisor will likely require notification. The client’s spouse should not be the first contact concerning the bruises, as he might be the source of the injury. Documentation about the findings is indicated. Delaying action until the next visit does not meet the legal responsibilities of the nurse. Nursing Process Step: Assessment Client Needs Category: Safe, Effective Care Environment Client Needs Subcategory: Safety and Infection Control Cognitive Level: Analysis

8. A home health nurse is preparing to begin a series of visits with a client. Based upon the client’s condition, the client is expected to require home care visits weekly for the next two months. Which of the following tasks should take place first?

1. Set priorities.

2. Assess the home environment.

3. Establish trust and rapport.

4. Promote learning.

Answer: 3 Rationale: The basis for a successful long-term relationship between the nurse and the client is founded in trust. Once a rapport is established, it will be possible to begin to identify priorities that are of mutual interest. A review of the home environment will be needed to determine needs for all aspects of care and to promote and maintain safety. Learning is an ongoing process. The client will be more receptive to interventions by the nurse once a rapport is established. Nursing Process Step: Planning Client Needs Category: Psychological Integrity Client Needs Subcategory: Coping and Adaptation Cognitive Level: Application

9. A postoperative client is preparing for discharge. A home health nurse has been scheduled to call on the client in two days. The client tires easily and voices an inability

11. The nurse is teaching the client about ways to increase personal safety in the home. During the interaction, the client advises the nurse that he has no plans to make the recommended changes. What response by the nurse is most appropriate?

1. “You might not get well if you do not follow my recommendations.”

2. “I will need to tell your physician the home is not safe enough.”

3. “If you need more information about what we have discussed, please let me know.”

4. “I might not be able to continue my visits if you do not conform.”

Answer: 3 Rationale: When providing patient teaching, the nurse must be aware that not all recommendations considered important by the nurse will be held at the same priority by the client. A failure to have the same goals does not mean the interaction is without merit. Telling the client he might not recover might not be true. At no time should the client feel threatened by the nurse’s responses. Implying that the visits will stop or that the physician will be called could be considered threatening. Nursing Process Step: Implementation Client Needs Category: Safe, Effective Care Environment Client Needs Subcategory: Safety and Infection Control Cognitive Level: Analysis

12. During a home health visit, the client indicates he feels he might need physical therapy to facilitate his recovery. What action by the nurse is indicated?

1. The nurse should contact the client’s insurance carrier to determine benefit eligibility.

2. The nurse should provide the client with the contact information for a local agency that offers

physical therapy services.

3. The nurse should contact the physician to discuss the client’s concerns.

4. The nurse should advise the client to contact the physician to discuss his concerns.

Answer: 3 Rationale: The home health nurse is responsible for making contact with needed agencies. Contact with the physician will be needed to initiate physical therapy. Nursing Process Step: Implementation Client Needs Category: Safe, Effective Care Environment Client Needs Subcategory: Management of Care Cognitive Level: Application

13. The nurse is assessing the client’s perception of safety issues in the home. Which of the following questions and statements will best assist the nurse in obtaining the needed data?

1. “Do you feel safe at home?”

2. “Can you see room for improving safety at home?”

3. “Please tell me some safety concerns you have.”

4. “Have you ever fallen at home?”

Answer: 3 Rationale: Open-ended questions or statements will yield the most information. Encouraging the client to share safety concerns will allow the greatest exchange of information directly related to the identified topic. Asking the client about feeling safe at home is broad, and might not yield the desired information. Nursing Process Step: Assessment Client Needs Category: Safe, Effective Care Environment Client Needs Subcategory: Safety and Infection Control Cognitive Level: Application CHAPTER 4

1. When preparing a client for surgery, the nurse observes that the client has been crying. When

the nurse asks the client to sign the surgery consent form, the client states “I guess