BSN Medical-Surgical Nursing

Question 1

A patient returns from a left-sided cardiac catheterization via the femoral artery. Which assessment finding requires immediate nursing intervention?

Accepted Answer

Absence of dorsalis pedis pulse in the left foot

Answer

Blood pressure of 128/80 mmHg in the right arm

Answer

Patient reporting a need to void

Answer

Mild bruising at the puncture site

Question 2

A patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. Which assessment finding is most concerning?

Accepted Answer

Tall peaked T waves on the ECG

Answer

Serum sodium of 138 mEq/L

Answer

Urine output of 40 mL/hr

Answer

Blood pressure of 148/90 mmHg

Question 3

A patient with a history of COPD is admitted with an acute exacerbation. The nurse notes an SpO2 of 85% and respiratory rate of 28 breaths/min. What is the priority nursing action?

Accepted Answer

Apply supplemental oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula and reassess

Answer

Administer oxygen at 100% via non-rebreather mask immediately

Answer

Prepare for immediate endotracheal intubation

Answer

Obtain an ABG and wait for results before intervening

Question 4

A postoperative patient who had abdominal surgery 2 days ago reports sudden onset of severe shortness of breath, chest pain, and apprehension. The nurse suspects pulmonary embolism. Which action takes priority?

Accepted Answer

Administer oxygen and notify the provider immediately

Answer

Encourage the patient to take slow, deep breaths

Answer

Position the patient in Trendelenburg to improve perfusion

Answer

Obtain a 12-lead ECG before calling the provider

Question 5

A patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus develops Kussmaul respirations, fruity breath, and blood glucose of 480 mg/dL. These findings are consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

Answer

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS)

Answer

Hypoglycemic coma

Answer

Somogyi effect

Question 6

A patient with a fractured pelvis is at greatest risk for which complication?

Accepted Answer

Hemorrhage

Answer

Fat embolism

Answer

Deep vein thrombosis

Answer

Compartment syndrome