A narcotic analgesic is ordered for postoperative pain. Why are narcotics given in low doses to the laryngectomy patient?
- A. They depress the respiratory rate and cough reflex.
- B. They increase respiratory tract secretions.
- C. They have a tendency to cause stomal edema.
- D. They can cause addiction.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Narcotic analgesics, when given in high doses, can depress the respiratory rate and cough reflex in patients. Laryngectomy patients have had their larynx removed and may already have compromised respiratory function. Therefore, giving narcotics in low doses helps to minimize the risk of further respiratory depression in these patients. It is important to closely monitor respiratory status when administering narcotics to laryngectomy patients to prevent potential complications.
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The nurse is providing breast cancer education at a community facility. The American Cancer Society recommends that women get with mammograms:
- A. Yearly after age 40
- B. After the birth of the first child and every 2 years thereafter
- C. After the first menstrual period and annually thereafter
- D. Every 3 years between ages 20 and 40 and annually thereafter
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The American Cancer Society recommends that women get yearly mammograms starting at age 40. This is because regular mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early when it's most treatable. Women at an average risk of breast cancer are advised to undergo yearly mammograms starting at age 40. Early detection through regular screening can help improve the chances of successful treatment and increase survival rates. It's important to follow these guidelines to ensure early detection and timely treatment of breast cancer.
The nurse has just started assessing a young child who is febrile and appears very ill. There is hyperextension of the child's head (opisthotonos) with pain on flexion. Which is the most appropriate action?
- A. Refer for immediate medical evaluation.
- B. Continue assessment to determine cause of neck pain.
- C. Ask parent when neck was injured.
- D. Record "head lag" on assessment record, and continue assessment of child.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Referring the child for immediate medical evaluation is the most appropriate action in this scenario. The symptoms described, including hyperextension of the head (opisthotonos) with pain on flexion, are concerning for meningitis, a serious infection that can rapidly progress and lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Seeking immediate medical intervention is crucial to assess and manage the child's condition effectively. Continuing with the assessment or asking about a neck injury is not recommended as the priority is to address the potential medical emergency. Recording the "head lag" without taking immediate action could delay necessary medical treatment.
Regarding the physical growth of middle childhood (6-11 yr), all are true EXCEPT
- A. 3-3.5 kg weight increment/yr
- B. 6-7 cm height increment/yr
- C. brain myelinization stops by 8 yr
- D. deciduous tooth falls by 6 yr
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Brain myelinization continues beyond 8 years.
The nurse is conducting teaching for an adolescent being discharged to home after a renal transplant. The adolescent needs further teaching if which statement is made?
- A. "I will report any fever to my primary health care provider."
- B. "I am glad I only have to take the immunosuppressant medication for two weeks."
- C. "I will observe my incision for any redness or swelling."
- D. "I won't miss doing kidney dialysis every week."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The statement "I am glad I only have to take the immunosuppressant medication for two weeks" indicates a misunderstanding about the long-term nature of immunosuppressant therapy following a renal transplant. In reality, individuals who undergo a renal transplant need to take immunosuppressant medications for the rest of their lives to prevent rejection of the donor kidney. Failure to adhere to this medication regimen can result in rejection of the transplanted kidney. Therefore, this statement indicates a need for further teaching to ensure the adolescent understands the importance of lifelong immunosuppressant therapy.
Which of the ff would describe the discomfort experienced by a client with a tension headache?
- A. A heavy feeling over the frontal region and sensitivity to light
- B. Pressure or steady constriction on both sides of the head
- C. Headache and temporary unilateral paralysis
- D. Vague headache, especially peri orbital
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Tension headaches are commonly described as a sensation of pressure, tightness, or steady constriction around the head. This discomfort is usually felt on both sides of the head, rather than being localized to one specific area. Unlike migraines which may have a pulsating or throbbing quality, tension headaches are characterized by a continuous dull ache. Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and vague headaches are more commonly associated with migraines, not tension headaches. Temporary unilateral paralysis and peri orbital pain are not typical symptoms of tension headaches.