Fundamentals of Nursing Review

A collection of Q&A flashcards focusing on essential nursing concepts and client care principles to help students prepare for their nursing exams.

What is the principle of Beneficence in healthcare?

It refers to the act of kindness and doing good for others.

What is the purpose of the Patient's Bill of Rights established by the AHA in 1972?

To ensure that client rights are respected and that nurses are responsible for protecting these rights.

Define Non-maleficence.

The commitment to do no harm.

What is the key difference between assault and battery in nursing ethics?

Assault is the threat to cause bodily harm, whereas battery is the actual physical act of harming someone without consent.

What is the significance of HIPAA enacted in 1996?

It ensures the protection and privacy of patients' health information.

List the three components of a nursing diagnosis.

Problem, Etiology (cause), Signs and Symptoms.

What is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs?

A psychological theory that ranks human needs from physiological needs at the base to self-actualization at the top.

What does the ABC stand for in emergency response?

Airway, Breathing, Circulation.

What are the primary characteristics of a client in acute pain?

Increased heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety, and reported pain level.

After a seizure, what should the nurse monitor in the patient?

Mental status, vital signs, and any signs of injuries sustained during the seizure.

What are some common side effects of opioid pain medications?

Respiratory depression, constipation, nausea, and dizziness.

What is the purpose of therapeutic communication in nursing?

To address a patient's physical and emotional needs effectively.

What important teaching must be provided to clients receiving anticoagulant therapy?

To monitor for signs of bleeding and to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K.

What are the signs of hyperkalemia?

Muscle weakness, fatigue, palpitations, and abnormal ECG changes.

What do you do if a patient's blood pressure drops significantly after medication administration?

Monitor vital signs, assess the patient’s condition, and notify the healthcare provider.

What is the main function of antipyretics?

To reduce fever.

What are common manifestations of dehydration in children?

Dry mouth, lack of tears, decreased urine output, and lethargy.

What is a major risk associated with the use of acetaminophen?

Hepatotoxicity, especially in cases of overdose or in patients with existing liver disease.

What intervention is crucial for a patient undergoing dialysis?

Monitoring vital signs and signs of fluid overload.

What are the characteristics of a newborn's normal vital signs?

Heart rate: 110-160 bpm, Respiratory rate: 30-60 breaths per minute, Temperature: 97.7-99.5 °F.

How should the healthcare provider differentiate between true labor and false labor?

True labor contractions increase in intensity, duration, and frequency, while false labor (Braxton Hicks) are irregular and typically resolve with movement.

What is the first action taken for suspected eclampsia?

Ensure safety, protect the patient's airway and monitor for seizure activity.

What is the recommended action for managing urinary retention in a patient?

Assess for bladder distention and consider catheterization if necessary.

What should be prevented or treated in patients at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Promoting mobility, encouraging leg exercises, and using compression stockings.