A patient presents with sudden-onset severe headache, nausea, vomiting, and photophobia. On examination, there is neck stiffness and positive Kernig and Brudzinski signs. Which of the following neurological conditions is most likely responsible for these symptoms?
- A. Meningitis
- B. Subdural hematoma
- C. Intracerebral hemorrhage
- D. Acute angle-closure glaucoma
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The symptoms described - sudden-onset severe headache, nausea, vomiting, photophobia, neck stiffness, and positive Kernig and Brudzinski signs - are classic manifestations of meningitis. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often caused by infection. The sudden onset of these symptoms and signs, along with neck stiffness and positive Kernig and Brudzinski signs (indicative of meningeal irritation), strongly suggest meningitis as the most likely diagnosis in this scenario.
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A patient with a history of peptic ulcer disease is prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for ulcer healing. Which information is important for the nurse to include in patient education about PPI therapy?
- A. PPIs should be taken on an empty stomach.
- B. PPIs should be discontinued once symptoms resolve.
- C. PPIs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
- D. PPIs should be taken with antacids for optimal effect.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: While proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease to help heal ulcers and reduce acid production, it is important for the nurse to educate the patient about potential risks associated with PPI therapy. PPIs have been associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease. It is crucial for the patient to be aware of this risk and to take precautions, such as avoiding other medications that can increase bleeding risk and informing healthcare providers about any signs of bleeding, such as black stools or abdominal pain. Educating the patient about this potential adverse effect allows for early recognition and prompt intervention if necessary.
A nurse is caring for a patient who expresses concerns about the potential side effects of a prescribed medication. What action should the nurse take to address the patient's concerns?
- A. Disregard the patient's concerns and reassure them about the medication's safety
- B. Provide accurate information about the medication, including potential side effects
- C. Encourage the patient to stop taking the medication if they are worried about side effects
- D. Minimize the importance of the patient's concerns and focus on other aspects of care
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should provide accurate information about the medication, including potential side effects, to address the patient's concerns. It is important for the nurse to listen to the patient's worries and provide them with the knowledge they need to make an informed decision about their treatment. By educating the patient about the medication and its potential side effects, the nurse empowers the patient to be actively involved in their care and promotes shared decision-making. Disregarding the patient's concerns, encouraging them to stop taking the medication, or minimizing the importance of their worries are not appropriate responses and may negatively impact the patient-nurse relationship and the patient's adherence to the prescribed treatment.
A woman in active labor is diagnosed with uterine rupture, resulting in fetal distress and maternal hemorrhage. What nursing intervention is essential in managing this obstetric emergency?
- A. Initiating immediate oxytocin infusion
- B. Preparing for immediate instrumental delivery
- C. Performing an emergency cesarean section
- D. Administering intravenous magnesium sulfate
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Uterine rupture is a severe obstetric complication that requires prompt and decisive management to prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby. In cases of uterine rupture leading to fetal distress and maternal hemorrhage, performing an emergency cesarean section is crucial. This intervention allows for rapid delivery of the baby, relieving the distress on the fetus and enabling immediate access to manage the maternal hemorrhage. By performing a timely cesarean section, healthcare providers can expedite the delivery process and effectively address both the fetal and maternal complications associated with uterine rupture. This intervention is essential in saving lives and reducing the risk of further complications in such a critical obstetric emergency.
Which of the following is a surgical procedure commonly performed to treat carpal tunnel syndrome?
- A. Ulnar nerve transposition
- B. Median nerve release
- C. Radial nerve decompression
- D. Brachial plexus neurolysis
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist. The surgical procedure commonly performed to treat carpal tunnel syndrome is called median nerve release or carpal tunnel release. During this surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is divided to relieve pressure on the median nerve, reducing symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. The goal of this procedure is to improve nerve function and reduce symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
The psychiatric diagnosing of patients is a morally charged issue and the assigning of diagnosis may be an ethical issue. The role of the nurse in diagnosing psychiatric patient is important because nurses are _______.
- A. collaborators in the diagnostic process
- B. planners of psychiatric nursing care
- C. knowledgeable in the field of psychiatry due to extensive clinical experience
- D. Competent by virtue of their educational preparation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Nurses play a crucial role as collaborators in the diagnostic process of psychiatric patients. While nurses themselves do not diagnose psychiatric conditions, they work closely with other healthcare providers such as psychiatrists and psychologists in assessing and monitoring patients' mental health status. Nurses gather valuable information, observe patients' behaviors, and communicate effectively with the healthcare team to contribute to the overall diagnostic process. By actively participating in assessments and evaluations, nurses help ensure accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans for psychiatric patients.