During the initial assessment of an older male client with obesity and diabetes who develops intermittent claudication, which additional information obtained by the nurse is most significant?
- A. Smokes 1.5 packs of cigarettes daily.
- B. Exercises regularly.
- C. Has a high-fat diet.
- D. Consumes alcohol daily.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Smokes 1.5 packs of cigarettes daily.' Smoking is a significant risk factor for peripheral arterial disease, a condition that can lead to intermittent claudication. The nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can damage blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of developing circulation problems. Choices B, C, and D are less significant in the context of intermittent claudication. Regular exercise, a high-fat diet, and daily alcohol consumption may have health implications, but they are not as directly linked to the development of intermittent claudication in the presence of obesity, diabetes, and smoking.
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The nurse prepares a teaching plan for an adult client with metabolic syndrome. Which findings should the nurse address to help the client reduce the risk for diabetes mellitus and vascular disease? (Select all that apply)
- A. Abdominal obesity
- B. Blood pressure of 150/96 mmHg
- C. Increased triglyceride levels
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, as all the listed factors - abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, and increased triglyceride levels - are components of metabolic syndrome. Addressing these findings is crucial to help reduce the client's risk for developing diabetes mellitus and vascular disease. Abdominal obesity is a key feature of metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure (150/96 mmHg) is a risk factor, and increased triglyceride levels are also indicative of the syndrome. Educating the client on lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and monitoring these parameters, is essential in managing metabolic syndrome and preventing associated complications. Choices A, B, and C are all correct, making choice D the correct answer.
What is the most common method of attempted suicide?
- A. Hanging
- B. Drug overdose
- C. Gunshot
- D. Slashing the wrists
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Drug overdose is the most common method of attempted suicide. While hanging, gunshot, and slashing the wrists are also methods used in suicide attempts, statistics show that drug overdose is the most prevalent method chosen by individuals attempting suicide. Hanging, gunshot, and slashing the wrists are indeed common methods as well, but drug overdose ranks highest in terms of frequency.
What is the main characteristic of cystic fibrosis?
- A. Multiple upper respiratory infections
- B. An underproduction of exocrine glands
- C. Excessive, thick mucus
- D. An overproduction of thin mucus
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The main characteristic of cystic fibrosis is the production of excessive, thick mucus. This thick mucus leads to blockages in the airways, digestive system, and other organs. Choice A is incorrect because while individuals with cystic fibrosis are more prone to respiratory infections, the main characteristic is the mucus production. Choice B is incorrect as cystic fibrosis is characterized by the overproduction, not underproduction, of exocrine glands. Choice D is also incorrect as the mucus produced in cystic fibrosis is thick, not thin.
A young client who is being taught how to use an inhaler for symptoms of asthma tells the nurse about the intention to use the inhaler but plans to continue smoking cigarettes. In evaluating the client's response, what is the best initial action by the nurse?
- A. Explain the risks of smoking with asthma.
- B. Revise the plan of care.
- C. Encourage the client to reduce smoking gradually.
- D. Provide resources for smoking cessation.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The best initial action by the nurse is to revise the plan of care. This is necessary to address the client's intention to continue smoking and ensure that appropriate support and education are provided. Choice A is not the best initial action as the client is already aware of the risks of smoking with asthma. Choice C might not be effective as the client's intention to continue smoking poses a significant risk to their health. Choice D, providing resources for smoking cessation, is important but revising the plan of care should come first to address the immediate concern.
The nurse assesses an adult male client 24 hours following abdominal surgery and finds that his blood pressure is 98/40 mm Hg, he is tachycardic, restless, and irritable. Which action should the nurse take first?
- A. Notify the healthcare provider of the findings.
- B. Ensure that the IV is infusing at the prescribed rate.
- C. Listen to lung sounds.
- D. Check under his back for evidence of bleeding.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should first check under the client for evidence of bleeding. A blood pressure of 98/40 mm Hg, along with tachycardia, restlessness, and irritability, could indicate internal hemorrhage following abdominal surgery. Checking for bleeding under the back is crucial to rule out this life-threatening complication. Notifying the healthcare provider, ensuring IV infusion, or listening to lung sounds can be important but are secondary to ruling out immediate life-threatening conditions like internal bleeding.