A client has died approximately one hour ago. The nurse notes that the client's temperature has decreased in the last hour since their death. Which of the following processes explains this phenomenon?
- A. Rigor mortis
- B. Postmortem decomposition
- C. Algor mortis
- D. Livor mortis
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Algor mortis occurs after death when the body's circulation stops, and the client's temperature begins to fall. The client's temperature will drop by approximately 1.8 degrees per hour until it reaches room temperature. During algor mortis, the client's skin gradually loses its elasticity. Rigor mortis refers to the stiffening of the body after death due to chemical changes in the muscles. Postmortem decomposition is the breakdown of tissues after death. Livor mortis is the pooling of blood in the dependent parts of the body, causing a purple-red discoloration.
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In which of the following ways can a healthcare provider promote the sense of taste for an older adult?
- A. Mixing foods together on the dinner tray
- B. Avoiding cologne, air fresheners, or room deodorizers
- C. Encouraging the client to chew food thoroughly
- D. Discouraging the use of salt or seasonings with prepared food
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: As individuals age, their sense of taste may diminish, impacting the enjoyment of eating. One effective way for a healthcare provider to promote the sense of taste for an older adult is by encouraging them to chew food thoroughly. Thorough chewing increases the contact of food with the taste buds, enhancing the chances of experiencing the flavors. Mixing foods together on the dinner tray may not necessarily enhance taste perception. Avoiding strong scents like cologne, air fresheners, or room deodorizers is more related to olfactory senses rather than taste. Discouraging the use of salt or seasonings can further diminish the taste experience for older adults who may already have reduced taste sensitivity.
Who should be members of a patient care conference?
- A. Doctors, nurses, and nursing assistants since they are healthcare providers
- B. Doctors, nurses, and the patient and/or the family members
- C. ALL members of the healthcare team
- D. ALL members of the healthcare team and the patient/resident
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In a patient care conference, it is essential to have all members of the healthcare team present to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. Including the patient or resident, along with their family members if desired, is crucial as they are the focus of care. Choice A is incorrect because it excludes other important members of the healthcare team. Choice B is partially correct as it includes the patient and/or family members but does not encompass the entire healthcare team. Choice C is too broad and does not specifically address the inclusion of the patient or resident. The correct answer, Choice D, includes all healthcare team members and the patient/resident, ensuring a holistic approach to patient-centered care.
Penny Thornton has had a stroke, or CVA, and is having difficulty eating on her own. Soon, she will be getting some assistive devices for eating meals. Which healthcare worker will be providing Penny with these assistive devices?
- A. A physical therapist
- B. A speech therapist
- C. A social worker
- D. An occupational therapist
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: An occupational therapist is the healthcare professional responsible for assessing the needs of individuals, like Penny, regarding assistive devices that aid them in their daily activities. In this case, assistive devices for eating, such as weighted plates and specialized utensils, are crucial for helping Penny regain independence in feeding herself. Physical therapists focus more on mobility and movement, speech therapists on communication and swallowing disorders, and social workers on providing emotional and social support. Therefore, the correct choice is the occupational therapist as they specialize in activities of daily living and promoting independence.
Which nursing intervention is most appropriate to reduce environmental stimuli that may cause discomfort for a client?
- A. Loosen pressure dressings on wounds
- B. Use assistance to lift a client in bed
- C. Check temperature of water used in a sponge bath
- D. Position the client in a prone position
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: To reduce environmental stimuli that may cause discomfort for a client, nurses can implement various interventions. Checking the temperature of the water used in a sponge bath is crucial to prevent burns from water that is too hot or discomfort from water that is too cold. This intervention addresses a common source of discomfort for clients during personal care. Loosening pressure dressings on wounds, although important for wound care, does not directly address environmental stimuli. Using assistance to lift a client in bed is about proper positioning and preventing injury rather than reducing environmental stimuli. Positioning the client prone is not a suitable intervention for reducing discomfort caused by environmental stimuli.
Which statement best describes evidence-based practice?
- A. Reading and analyzing research reports to determine their implementation in nursing practice
- B. Collecting data to evaluate the efficiency of nursing practice in delivering quality care
- C. Monitoring unit practices to ensure adherence to Joint Commission standards
- D. Using the most effective, current, and applicable information to guide nursing care for the best outcomes
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Evidence-based practice involves utilizing the most effective, current, and relevant information to inform nursing care decisions for optimal client outcomes. While research reports and data collection are important components of evidence-based practice, the essence lies in integrating all available information to determine the best course of action. Monitoring compliance with standards, as described in choices A and C, is essential for quality assurance but does not capture the comprehensive nature of evidence-based practice.