A client with frequent watery stools and a possible Clostridium difficile infection is hospitalized with dehydration. Which nursing action should the charge nurse assign to an LPN?

Performing assessments of the client's hydration status.

Administering the prescribed metronidazole 500 mg orally to the client.

Reviewing client's medical history for any risk factors for diarrhea.

Explaining the purpose of the ordered stool cultures to the client and family.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   While LPNs can perform some assessments, the charge nurse should assign this task to an RN. Assessing hydration status requires critical thinking and a comprehensive understanding of the client's overall clinical condition, which typically falls within the RN’s scope of practice.
B.   Administering medications, including antibiotics like metronidazole, is within the scope of practice for LPNs. As long as the LPN is competent in administering medications and there are no specific contraindications for the client, this task can be appropriately assigned.
C.   This task involves critical thinking and comprehensive analysis of the client's medical history, which is typically conducted by an RN. While LPNs may review aspects of the medical history, the charge nurse should assign more complex evaluations and assessments to RNs.
D.   While LPNs can provide some patient education, explaining the rationale behind specific tests, especially in the context of complex infections, typically requires the knowledge and expertise of an RN. This task may involve more detailed clinical reasoning and the ability to address specific questions and concerns that the client or family may have.

Nursing Test Bank

Quiz #1: RN Exams Pharmacology Exams Quiz #2: RN Exams Medical-Surgical Exams Quiz #3: RN Exams Fundamentals Exams Quiz #4: RN Exams Maternal-Newborn Exams Quiz #5: RN Exams Anatomy and Physiology Exams Quiz #6: RN Exams Obstetrics and Pediatrics Exams Quiz #7: RN Exams Fluid and Electrolytes Exams Quiz #8: RN Exams Community Health Exams Quiz #9: RN Exams Promoting Health across the lifespan Exams Quiz #10: RN Exams Multidimensional care Exams

Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Quiz #1: Naxlex RN Comprehensive online practice 2019 B with NGN Quiz #2: Naxlex RN Comprehensive Predictor 2023 Quiz #3: Naxlex RN Comprehensive Predictor 2023 Exit Exam A Quiz #4: Naxlex HESI Exit LPN Exam Quiz #5: Naxlex PN Comprehensive Predictor PN 2020 Quiz #6: Naxlex VATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020 Quiz #8: Naxlex PN Comprehensive Predictor 2023 - Exam 1 Quiz #10: Naxlex HESI PN Exit exam Quiz #11: Naxlex HESI PN EXIT Exam 2

Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. While state boards of nursing do have regulatory authority over nursing practice and can take action against nurses who abuse substances, this does not negate the need for an internal program. Organizations should proactively address substance abuse to support employee health and safety, rather than relying solely on external authorities.
B. While safety is a critical concern, emphasizing punishment can create a culture of fear and may discourage employees from seeking help. A punitive approach may lead to further issues, such as hiding problems rather than addressing them.
C. While confidentiality is important, the involvement of the personnel department alone may not be sufficient to address the complexities of substance abuse. A comprehensive program should include input from healthcare professionals, mental health experts, and employee assistance programs to effectively manage and support affected employees.
D. This is the most appropriate consideration. A program focusing on screening, prevention, and early intervention can help identify issues before they escalate, support employees in getting the help they need, and create a healthier workplace culture.

A. Pain B. Anxiety C. Sleeplessness D. Difficulty speaking E. Depression

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]

Explanation

A. Pain is one of the hallmark symptoms of sickle cell anemia, particularly during a sickle cell crisis. The sickling of red blood cells can obstruct blood flow, leading to ischemia and severe pain in various parts of the body, including the chest, abdomen, and joints.
B. Clients with sickle cell anemia often experience anxiety, especially during pain crises or hospitalizations. The uncertainty surrounding pain episodes, potential complications, and the chronic nature of the disease can contribute to feelings of anxiety.
C. Many individuals with sickle cell anemia may experience sleeplessness due to pain, discomfort, or anxiety related to their condition. Pain episodes can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and further complicating their overall health.
D. Difficulty speaking is not a typical manifestation of sickle cell anemia. While severe complications, such as stroke, can occur in individuals with sickle cell disease and may lead to speech difficulties, this is not a direct manifestation of the condition itself.
E. Depression is common among individuals with chronic illnesses, including sickle cell anemia. The ongoing challenges of managing pain, frequent medical visits, and the impact of the disease on daily life can contribute to feelings of depression.

View Question and Answer

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

A client with frequent watery stools and a possible Clostridium difficile infection is hospitalized with dehydration. Which nursing action should the charge nurse assign to an LPN?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

What consideration should the nurse-manager prioritize when creating a program to deal with the issue of substance abuse by employees?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is admitting a client who has sickle cell anemia. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect with this condition?(Select All that Apply.)

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is uncharacteristically extroverted on today's shift, with an unsteady gait. The manager suspects that the nurse may be chemically Impaired. What is the manager's most appropriate action?

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled to have surgery. In preparing the client for surgery, which of the following actions is considered outside the nurse's responsibilities?

What is the most likely reason a patient would discontinue their prescribed hydroxyurea?

A nurse plans to leave her scheduled shift an hour early without permission or notification of the charge nurse. The clients in the nurse's assignment are stable. Which of the following legal terms applies to this situation?

A nurse is preparing to administer morphine 4 mg IV bolus to a client who reports pain. Available is morphine 10 mg/mL. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A registered nurse has been leading teams of nursing assistive personnel (NAP) for several years and will soon be leading licensed practical nurses (LPNs) for the first time. In preparation for delegating to these nurses, the RN should:

A nurse at a community clinic is reinforcing education for a newly licensed nurse about nursing advocacy. Which of the following actions should the nurse include as an example of nursing advocacy?