LPN - Certified Practical Nurse Reduction of Risk Potential Questions and Answers

Question 1

An LPN is assisting with the care of a client who is immobile after a stroke. To reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which of the following interventions is most appropriate for the LPN to implement?

Accepted Answer

Applying anti-embolism stockings and encouraging ankle pump exercises.

Answer

Applying anti-embolism stockings helps promote venous return, and ankle pump exercises activate the calf muscles, which helps prevent venous stasis, a primary risk factor for DVT. Massaging the legs is contraindicated as it could dislodge a pre-existing clot. While active range-of-motion for unaffected limbs is good, it does not directly address DVT risk in the affected, immobile limbs as effectively. Keeping the knees flexed can impede venous return from the lower legs, increasing the risk.

Question 2

An LPN is caring for a client who is scheduled for a colonoscopy. The client's preparation includes a polyethylene glycol solution. The LPN should monitor the client for which potential complication related to this bowel prep?

Accepted Answer

Electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.

Answer

Polyethylene glycol solutions are osmotic laxatives that cause a large volume of liquid stool to clean the colon. This can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte losses, putting the client at risk for dehydration, hyponatremia, and hypokalemia. The LPN's role includes monitoring for signs of these imbalances, such as weakness, confusion, or cardiac dysrhythmias.

Question 3

A newly admitted client has a history of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Which of the following items is essential for the LPN to ensure is at the client's bedside to reduce the risk of injury?

Accepted Answer

Suction equipment and an oxygen source.

Answer

During and after a seizure, a client is at risk for aspirating secretions and may become hypoxic. Having suction available to clear the airway and oxygen for administration are critical safety measures. Padded tongue blades and oral airways should not be inserted into the mouth of a seizing client as this can cause dental and soft tissue trauma. Restraints should not be used as they can cause injury while the client is convulsing.

Question 4

An LPN is assisting in the transfer of a client with right-sided weakness from the bed to a wheelchair. Which action demonstrates the use of safe patient handling principles?

Accepted Answer

Positioning the wheelchair at a 45-degree angle to the bed on the client's strong (left) side.

Answer

Positioning the wheelchair on the client's stronger side allows them to use their functional strength to pivot and support their weight during the transfer. Angling the chair at 45 degrees minimizes the distance the client has to move. The client should not put their arms around the nurse's neck, as this can cause injury to the nurse. The bed should be in a low position to reduce the risk of injury from a fall.

Question 5

The LPN is reviewing laboratory results for a client receiving warfarin therapy. The client's International Normalized Ratio (INR) is 4.5. What is the LPN's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Notify the registered nurse (RN) or healthcare provider of the result.

Answer

A therapeutic INR for a client on warfarin is typically between 2.0 and 3.0. An INR of 4.5 is critically high and indicates an excessive anticoagulant effect, placing the client at high risk for bleeding. The LPN's priority is to report this critical value immediately to the RN or provider for further orders, which may include holding the dose of warfarin or administering an antidote. Administering the warfarin would be unsafe. Leafy greens (high in Vitamin K) would counteract warfarin, but dietary changes are not the immediate priority. The result is well outside the therapeutic range.

(LPN) Certified Practical Nurse Practice Test

(LPN) Certified Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN - Certified Practical Nurse Reduction of Risk Potential Questions and Answers