Nursing Fundamentals Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of the orthopneic position?

To promote relaxation

To improve digestion

To aid in breathing during respiratory distress (correct)

To enhance circulation in the legs

Which of the following is NOT a key step in medical asepsis?

Proper waste management

Disinfection of surfaces

Wearing protective footwear (correct)

Regular hand washing

What does blood pressure measure?

The pressure exerted by blood on arterial walls (correct)

The oxygen concentration in the blood

The volume of blood pumped by the heart

The speed of blood flow

What distinguishes core temperature from tympanic temperature?

Core temperature is internal while tympanic temperature is measured in the ear Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Face mask Signup and view all the answers

How does blood pressure change throughout the day?

It fluctuates to meet the body's needs Signup and view all the answers

Which practice contributes directly to medical asepsis?

Frequent hand hygiene Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of evidence-based practice in nursing?

Providing care based on the most up-to-date research Signup and view all the answers

Which function do professional nursing organizations primarily serve?

Lobbying for policy changes affecting healthcare Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the six stages involved in the spread of infection?

Chain of infection Signup and view all the answers

Which link in the chain of infection refers to the environment where pathogens can multiply?

Reservoir Signup and view all the answers

How can personal protective measures affect the chain of infection?

They can help break multiple links in the chain Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'susceptible host' in the chain of infection?

A person vulnerable to infection Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a mode of transmission in the chain of infection?

Droplets from sneezing Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'reservoir' in the context of infection spread?

The environment where pathogens can multiply Signup and view all the answers

What role does evidence-based practice play in nursing?

It promotes holistic care based on current research Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a mode of transmission for pathogens?

Use of disinfectants on surfaces Signup and view all the answers

In medical asepsis, which practice is essential for preventing the spread of infection?

Regular hand washing Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of medical asepsis?

To reduce the number of microorganisms Signup and view all the answers

How can breaking the chain of infection be achieved?

By implementing multiple measures at once Signup and view all the answers

Which group is typically considered a susceptible host?

Elderly individuals Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of disinfectants in infection control?

To kill microorganisms on contaminated surfaces Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a portal of entry for pathogens?

Through cuts in the skin Signup and view all the answers

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for COVID-19 safety?

N-95 respirator mask, gloves, and eye protection Signup and view all the answers

What should a nurse do if a patient asks for pain medication and then falls asleep?

Wake the patient and administer the medication Signup and view all the answers

What are common factors that interfere with sleep?

Eating spicy foods and consuming caffeine before bedtime Signup and view all the answers

What describes 'contractures'?

A permanent tightening of muscles and tissues leading to stiffness Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is recommended for managing venous thrombosis?

Walking and exercising regularly Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes orthostatic hypotension?

Sudden dizziness upon standing from a sitting position Signup and view all the answers

What is the best method of hygiene for patients with cardiac and respiratory issues?

Avoid using showers or tub baths Signup and view all the answers

How can atelectasis be prevented in bedridden patients?

Using an incentive spirometer and encouraging movement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a psychological effect of using restraints?

Feelings of helplessness Signup and view all the answers

What skin color changes should clinicians look for in areas subject to pressure?

Purple, bluish, or violet discoloration Signup and view all the answers

What is induration in the context of skin assessment?

A skin hardness area larger than 15 mm in diameter Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes Cheyne-Stokes respiration?

A pattern of alternating deep and shallow breaths with pauses Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT recommended when assessing skin in people with darker tones?

Comparing skin tones to food for clarity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a complication associated with the use of restraints?

Increased mobility Signup and view all the answers

Which areas are most prone to skin breakdown for patients in a side-lying position?

Greater tuberosity and lateral malleolus Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate strategy for repositioning at-risk patients?

Repositioning every 2–4 hours Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention is essential for preventing pressure injuries?

Assessment of skin condition Signup and view all the answers

Which type of cushion should be avoided to prevent increased swelling and reduced blood flow?

Donut-shaped cushions Signup and view all the answers

What role does nursing intervention play in preventing pressure ulcers?

Conducting a risk assessment on admission and as condition changes Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary benefit of specialized support surfaces in preventing pressure ulcers?

They enhance circulation and reduce pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is an important dietary consideration for preventing pressure ulcers?

Ensuring good nutrition and hydration Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

PPE for COVID-19

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for COVID-19 includes eye protection, gowns, gloves, and N-95 respirator masks.

Immediate Nursing Intervention for Shortness of Breath (SOB)

Factors that interfere with sleep include alcohol and caffeine consumption before bed, spicy foods, and loud music.

Pain Management

If a patient falls asleep after receiving pain medication, wake the patient and administer the medication.
Non-pharmacological pain management interventions include massage, distraction, guided imagery, and hypnosis.

Hygiene for Cardiac and Respiratory Issues

Avoid showering or tub baths for patients with cardiac and respiratory issues.

Low Blood Pressure

Signs and symptoms of low blood pressure include dizziness, lightheadedness, and weakness.

Oral Hygiene for Unconscious Patients

Avoid pouring water into the mouth of an unconscious patient.
Use toothette sponges for oral hygiene.

Total Care

Total care is when a nurse provides all care for a patient who is unable to care for themselves.

Contractures

Contractures are permanent tightening of muscles, tendons, skin, and nearby tissues, shortening joints and making them stiff.
The causes include injury, scarring, nerve damage, or lack of muscle use.

Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension (also called postural hypotension) is a type of low blood pressure that occurs when standing up.
Blood pressure drops when standing due to blood vessels not constricting (tightening) properly.

Venous Thrombosis Interventions

Walking and exercise, avoiding tight clothing, and avoiding prolonged sitting or leg crossing are interventions for venous thrombosis.

Atelectasis Prevention

Encourage movement and deep breathing exercises, especially after surgery.
Use an incentive spirometer to improve lung expansion.
Change patient's position frequently from lying to sitting.

Orthopneic Position

The orthopneic, or tripod, position is a sitting or standing position where a person leans forward, using their hands to support the upper body on their knees or another surface.
This position is useful for patients experiencing respiratory distress or orthopnea, a type of breathlessness.

Medical Asepsis

Medical asepsis (clean technique) aims to prevent the spread of infection by reducing the number of microorganisms.
Hand hygiene is critical along with disinfection procedures, proper waste management, and appropriate equipment cleaning.

Blood Pressure Definition

Blood pressure is the pressure of blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood.
Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day and changes to meet the body's needs.

Core Body Temperature vs. Tympanic Temperature

Core body temperature refers to the temperature of internal organs (brain, heart, liver, and blood)
Tympanic temperature measures radiating heat from the tympanic membrane and is often used as a surrogate for deep brain temperature.

Pulse Oximetry Definition

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive test that measures the amount of oxygen in the blood.

Capillary Refill

Capillary refill assesses blood flow to peripheral tissues(hands, feet) quickly by pressing on a nail bed.

Respiratory Rate

Respiratory rate is the number of breaths a person takes per minute while at rest.

Stridor and Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs)

Stridor is a high-pitched, abnormal lung sound caused by narrowed airways.
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) kill approximately 100,000 people in the United States annually.

Fever Benefits

Fevers help the body fight infections. Bacteria and viruses thrive at normal body temperature and fevers make it harder for them to survive.
Fevers also activate the immune response, sending white blood cells to fight infection.

Medical Asepsis Examples

Hand hygiene and proper use of PPE are important medical asepsis techniques, as are proper waste management and environmentally safe cleaning.

Restraints

Use restraints as a last resort for safety reasons; when used, patients must be monitored every 2 hours and need a medical order.
Alternatives include communication, distraction, reassurance, and other strategies.

Identifying Step in QI

Identify opportunities for improvement.
Define objectives and requirements.
Gather and sort data.
Determine the root cause.
Determine possible solutions.
Continuously monitor actions taken.

LVN Supervision Requirements

LVNs must practice under the supervision of a physician, dentist or registered nurse.

Bedside Safety Interventions

Lock bed wheels, use the lowest bed position.

Therapeutic Response Elements

Providing support, avoiding judgment, acknowledging feelings, and encouraging open-ended questions are elements of therapeutic response.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain lasts longer than 3 months or the normal healing time.
It can be continuous or intermittent and originates from injury, diseases, or unknown causes.

Objective Pain Findings

Facial expressions (grimacing, frowning), behavior (restlessness, agitation), sounds (moaning, groaning), and physiological changes are objective pain findings, among other physical indicators.

Gingivitis (Gum Disease)

Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease caused by plaque and bacteria buildup..
Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Flossing's Purpose

Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line.

Indirect Transmission

Indirect transmission occurs when microorganisms are spread through contaminated surfaces or objects, or vectors like insects, to a person.

Surgical Site Infection (SSI) Signs & Symptoms

Common symptoms of SSIs include pain, redness, swelling, drainage, fever, and other symptoms.

Orthostatic (Postural) Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension occurs when blood pressure drops significantly when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
This can happen when blood vessels don't constrict (tighten) properly when standing.

Pulse and Korotkoff Sounds

Pulse is a series of pressure waves/blood flow within arteries caused by ventricular contractions.
Korotkoff sounds are the sounds made by blood flowing through arteries as a blood pressure cuff is deflated.

Bradycardia

Bradycardia is a slow heart rate (less than 60 beats per minute).
Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, mental confusion, fainting, and shortness of breath.

Eupnea

Eupnea is normal, unobstructed breathing.

Chain of Infection

Infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host are the stages of infection.

Medical Asepsis and Examples

Medical asepsis or clean technique aims to reduce microorganisms via hand hygiene, disinfection, and PPE usage.

Standard Precautions

Standard precautions are a set of infection control practices that apply to all patients.
Standard precautions include hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe handling of sharps and waste.

Patient-Centered Care

Patient-centered care prioritizes patients' values, preferences and needs.
Nurses advise, educate and support patients making decisions about their care.

Aspiration Precautions Interventions

Upright posture, small bites of food, and avoidance of distractions during eating.

Oral Care

Routine oral hygiene reduces mouth bacteria that can cause infection.

Interventions During Tube Feeding

Maintain a 30–45-degree head of bed elevation for 30-60 minutes after feeding for aspiration prevention.

Inflammatory Response

The inflammatory response is a protective mechanism that isolates foreign substances, triggers blood cell migration, and prevents infection spread.

Florence Nightingale's Theory/Concepts

Nightingale's theory emphasizes the nurse's role to identify and treat patient needs at all levels. The theory includes concepts of person, health, environment, and nursing.

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Roles

LVNs assist with patient care (basic needs), monitoring (vital signs), administering some medications, and communication with other healthcare professionals.

HMO Requirements

Many HMOs require referrals for specialists/outpatient therapy/services.

Evidence-Based Practice

Evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing involves using the latest research to guide treatment decisions while considering patients' values and needs.

Back Injury Prevention Measures

Use appropriate lifting techniques and assistive devices.
Promote proper posture, maintain a neutral spine and good body mechanics, and use supportive devices such as ergonomic chairs, anti-fatigue mats, and footrests.

Pressure Ulcer Prevention

Implement interventions that promote skin integrity, such as frequent turning, and appropriate skin care.

Cold Therapy

Cold therapy uses ice packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Nurse's role involves patient assessment and monitoring related to cold therapy use.

Hot or Cold Therapy

Assessing the skin frequently and avoiding direct placement of hot/cold compresses on skin are important.
Always follow healthcare provider orders.

Rapid Blood Loss (Hypovolemic Shock)

Rapid blood loss can cause shock and vital organ damage due to insufficient tissue oxygen leading to acidosis, cellular impairment and death.
Shock occurs when blood loss is severe, and the body's oxygen demand cannot be met, causing ischemia in organs/tissues.

Preventing Back Injuries

Maintain neutral posture, bend at the knees not waist, use assistive devices, and use good posture when lifting/transferring patients.
Correct positioning of bed/chairs and use of equipment are important in patient care to reduce patient injury and nurse back pain.

Impaired Skin Integrity

Impairment can occur from prolonged pressure or limited circulation, which result in skin lesions and sometimes, loss of limb or life.
Other factors like incontinence, and/or poor hygiene, increased risk of skin breakdown, which result in skin problems.

Risk Factors for Impaired Skin Integrity

Skin lesions, impaired mobility, incontinence, and hot water use are examples of risk factors.

Preventing Pressure Ulcers

Frequent repositioning (every 2-4 hours) or use of specialized beds or equipment are necessary to ensure patients' skin support and prevent pressure ulcers.

Side-Lying Wound Risks/Prevention

The bony areas (such as the elbows, hips, shoulder, heels, etc.) are common areas of concern. These areas of concern should be kept elevated to prevent or minimize risk factors.

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Description

Test your knowledge on nursing fundamentals with this quiz covering essential topics such as medical asepsis, infection control, and evidence-based practice. Each question is designed to challenge your understanding of critical nursing concepts.