Basic Nursing Skills Flashcards

Normal urine color is

Answer: Yellow

Normal urine color typically ranges from pale yellow to amber, depending on a person's hydration level. This coloration is primarily due to the pigment urobilin, a waste product. Significant deviations from this yellow spectrum, such as red, brown, or dark orange, can indicate underlying health issues and should be reported to a nurse.

Signs and symptoms of shock may include

Answer: Low blood pressure, tachycardia, clammy, pale skin

Shock is a life-threatening condition where the body's organs are not receiving enough blood flow. Key signs and symptoms include a drop in blood pressure (hypotension), a rapid heart rate (tachycardia), and cool, clammy, pale skin. These symptoms occur as the body attempts to compensate for reduced circulation and conserve blood for vital organs.

What is the best way of keeping a skilled nursing facility from having an unpleasant odor?

Answer: Empty bedpans and change linens in a timely manner.

The most effective way to prevent unpleasant odors in a skilled nursing facility is through meticulous hygiene and prompt waste management. Regularly emptying bedpans, changing soiled linens, and assisting residents with personal hygiene directly addresses the primary sources of odors. This proactive approach ensures a clean, fresh, and comfortable environment for residents and staff.

The brain is part of the

Answer: nervous system

The brain is the central organ of the nervous system, which is a complex network of nerves and cells that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord to various parts of the body. It controls all bodily functions, thoughts, emotions, and senses. The nervous system is essential for communication and coordination within the body.

While taking a rectal temperature the nurse aide should insert the thermometer and

Answer: hold onto the thermometer until it can be removed.

When taking a rectal temperature, the nurse aide must continuously hold onto the thermometer until it is time for removal. This prevents the thermometer from being accidentally dislodged, pushed in too far, or causing injury to the patient. Maintaining a secure hold ensures patient safety and an accurate temperature reading.

Which of the following should be reported immediately?

Answer: A blood pressure of 90/40

A blood pressure of 90/40 mmHg is significantly low (hypotension) and could indicate a serious medical emergency such as shock, dehydration, or internal bleeding. Such a reading requires immediate reporting to the nurse for prompt assessment and intervention. Other options like a pulse of 90, temperature of 99.4, or respirations of 12 are generally within or near normal ranges.

A patient has a diagnosis of psoriasis. Her nurse aide should

Answer: treat her the same as any other patient with a non-infectious disease.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to build up rapidly, forming scales and red patches; it is not contagious. Therefore, a nurse aide should treat a patient with psoriasis the same as any other patient with a non-infectious disease. Standard precautions are sufficient, and there is no need for isolation or special protective equipment beyond routine care.

A professional and safe working appearance would include

Answer: Clean, wrinkle free uniform, short fingernails, off-the-shoulder hair

A professional and safe working appearance in healthcare prioritizes hygiene, practicality, and a clean image. A clean, wrinkle-free uniform projects professionalism, while short fingernails prevent the harboring of germs and reduce the risk of scratching patients. Hair tied off the shoulder prevents contamination and entanglement, ensuring both patient and caregiver safety.

The recommended position for giving an enema is

Answer: Left Sims

The recommended position for administering an enema is the Left Sims position. In this position, the patient lies on their left side with their right knee bent towards the chest. This anatomical alignment allows gravity to assist the flow of the enema solution into the descending colon, promoting better retention and effectiveness of the enema.

A major risk factor for a stroke is

Answer: Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the most significant modifiable risk factor for a stroke. Chronically elevated blood pressure damages blood vessels over time, making them more prone to narrowing, rupturing, or forming clots, all of which can lead to a stroke. Effective management of hypertension is crucial for stroke prevention.

The patient just voided 400cc of cloudy yellow urine that has a strong smell. The patient also complains of pain while urinating. What should you report to the nurse?

Answer: Color, clarity, amount, odor, and pain

When reporting urine characteristics, it is crucial to provide a comprehensive description to the nurse. This includes the color (yellow), clarity (cloudy), amount (400cc), and odor (strong smell), as well as any associated symptoms like pain during urination. These detailed observations help the nurse accurately assess for potential issues such as a urinary tract infection or dehydration.

The nutrient used to build and repair tissue is

Answer: Protein

Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a vital role in building, repairing, and maintaining all body tissues, including muscles, organs, and skin. It is also crucial for producing enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals, and for supporting immune function. Carbohydrates and fats primarily serve as energy sources.

All of the following are signs of approaching death EXCEPT

Answer: Circulation increase

As death approaches, the body's systems begin to shut down, leading to a decrease in vital functions. This typically includes a decrease in circulation, resulting in cold extremities and mottled skin, and a drop in blood pressure. Therefore, an increase in circulation is not a sign of approaching death; rather, it indicates a functioning, healthy system.

Mrs. Jones is an insulin-dependent diabetic. What task should not be done for Mrs. Jones?

Answer: Clipping toe nails

Clipping toenails for an insulin-dependent diabetic patient is a task that should only be performed by a licensed nurse or podiatrist. Diabetics are highly susceptible to poor circulation and nerve damage in their feet, making them prone to infections and slow-healing wounds from even minor cuts. Improper nail care can lead to serious complications, including amputation.

A normal adult blood pressure is

Answer: 116/70

A normal adult blood pressure is generally considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg. Therefore, a reading of 116/70 mmHg falls within the healthy range. Readings significantly higher or lower than this can indicate hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure), respectively, and may require medical attention.

The admission process includes all EXCEPT

Answer: Completing a physical assessment by the CNA

While CNAs assist with many aspects of the admission process, such as weighing, measuring, and orienting the person to their room, performing a comprehensive physical assessment is outside their scope of practice. A physical assessment requires the clinical judgment, diagnostic skills, and licensure of a registered nurse or physician. CNAs provide direct care and support under the supervision of licensed nurses.