Nursing Process Exam Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Fluid and electrolyte monitoring. In total parenteral nutrition (TPN), monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance is crucial to prevent complications like dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and overload. Regular assessment ensures the patient's stability and prevents potential adverse effects. Option A (Evaluation of the peripheral venous site) is important but not essential compared to maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. Option B (Confirmation that the tube is in the stomach) is irrelevant for a patient receiving TPN as it bypasses the GI tract. Option C (Assessment of the GI tract, including bowel sounds) is not necessary as TPN is given intravenously, bypassing the GI tract altogether.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevents hypoglycemic episodes. Carbohydrates cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar, while protein helps maintain stable levels. Avoiding fasting also helps regulate blood sugar. Choice A is incorrect as increasing saturated fat and fasting can worsen hypoglycemia. Choice B is incorrect as vitamins and iron do not directly address hypoglycemia. Choice C is incorrect as relying on sugary foods like candy bars can lead to further blood sugar imbalances.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because gathering and organizing needed supplies is a crucial step before performing a complex dressing change. By ensuring all necessary supplies are readily available, the nurse can streamline the process, minimize interruptions, and promote efficiency. This step also helps maintain aseptic technique and prevent the spread of infection. Deciding on goals and outcomes (B) is important but typically done as part of the care planning process, not immediately before a dressing change. Assessing the patient's readiness (C) is also important but can be done concurrently with gathering supplies. Calling for assistance (D) may be necessary in some situations, but it is not the immediate step required just before changing the dressing.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 5% dextrose and water with 60 mEq. This solution is appropriate because it provides both fluid replacement (water) and electrolyte replacement (60 mEq). The dextrose helps prevent hypoglycemia. Choice A is incorrect as 10% dextrose and saline may worsen hemoconcentration. Choice B is not ideal as 5% dextrose and water lacks electrolytes needed for fluid balance. Choice D, distilled water with KCl, is dangerous as it lacks dextrose and may lead to electrolyte imbalances.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Applying the liquid test antigen. During a scratch test to detect allergies, the nurse's role is to apply the liquid test antigen onto the skin to observe the body's reaction. This antigen contains potential allergens that may trigger a response in allergic individuals. By applying this antigen, the nurse can assess if the patient develops a raised wheal or redness at the site, indicating an allergic reaction. This step is crucial in identifying specific allergens causing the patient's symptoms. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as determining the type of allergy, measuring the length and width of the reaction, and documenting the findings are all important steps but do not directly relate to the initial action of applying the test antigen during a scratch test.