A postpartum client presents with sudden chest pain, dyspnea, and tachycardia. Which nursing action should be prioritized?
- A. Elevating the head of the bed
- B. Providing supplemental oxygen therapy
- C. Administering analgesics for pain relief
- D. Notifying the healthcare provider immediately
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Sudden chest pain, dyspnea, and tachycardia in a postpartum client can be indicative of serious conditions such as pulmonary embolism or myocardial infarction. These conditions are emergencies that require immediate medical attention. Notifying the healthcare provider immediately is the priority to ensure prompt evaluation and intervention to address the potential life-threatening situation. While other nursing interventions such as elevating the head of the bed, providing supplemental oxygen therapy, and administering analgesics may be necessary, they should be done after notifying the healthcare provider to ensure appropriate management of the underlying cause.
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A patient with a history of chronic kidney disease is prescribed phosphate binders. Which instruction should the nurse include in patient education about phosphate binder therapy?
- A. "Take phosphate binders with meals."
- B. "Avoid taking phosphate binders with calcium supplements."
- C. "Increase your intake of foods high in phosphorus."
- D. "Take phosphate binders on an empty stomach."
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction that the nurse should include in patient education about phosphate binder therapy is to "Take phosphate binders with meals." Phosphate binders are medications given to patients with chronic kidney disease to help control high phosphate levels in the blood. Taking phosphate binders with meals allows them to bind to the phosphorus present in the food, reducing its absorption in the body. This helps to lower blood phosphate levels effectively. Instructing the patient to take phosphate binders with meals ensures optimal binding of phosphorus from the diet, which is crucial for managing phosphate levels in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Which of the following historical data MOST probably led to a post-traumatic stress disorder?
- A. Unstable relationship with ex-fiancee.
- B. No gang-relationship with peers
- C. Suicide of her mother
- D. Dropping out of school.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The suicide of her mother is the most probable historical data that led to post-traumatic stress disorder. Experiencing the suicide of a close family member, especially a parent, can be an extremely traumatic event that can have long-lasting psychological effects. Witnessing or dealing with such a tragic loss can lead to feelings of helplessness, depression, guilt, and intense emotional distress, all of which are common in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This significant and distressing event could have a profound impact on the individual's mental health and well-being, contributing to the development of PTSD symptoms such as intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative mood alterations, and changes in arousal or reactivity.
If the patient is unable to talk, how should the nurse BEST communicate to the patient?
- A. Enunciating the words slowly and well.
- B. By using picture cards
- C. Just stop as he could no longer understand.
- D. Talking loudly face-to-face with the patient.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When a patient is unable to talk, the nurse can best communicate with the patient by using picture cards. Picture cards can help the patient convey their needs, feelings, or responses by pointing to the corresponding pictures. This method allows for effective communication and understanding between the patient and the nurse, even when verbal communication is not possible. It promotes patient autonomy and ensures that their needs are accurately communicated and addressed. Additionally, picture cards can be a useful tool in reducing frustration and anxiety for patients who are unable to communicate verbally.
A postpartum client who experienced a prolonged labor and instrumental delivery expresses concerns about breastfeeding difficulties. What nursing intervention should be prioritized to support successful breastfeeding in this situation?
- A. Providing education on techniques to facilitate milk let-down reflex
- B. Recommending supplemental formula feedings to ensure adequate nutrition
- C. Encouraging the client to consider exclusive formula feeding instead of breastfeeding
- D. Referring the client to a lactation consultant for specialized support
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the situation described, where the client experienced a prolonged labor and instrumental delivery, there may be physical and emotional factors impacting breastfeeding success. A lactation consultant is a specialized healthcare provider who can assess the client's breastfeeding difficulties, offer individualized support, and provide guidance on techniques to overcome challenges such as latch issues, positioning problems, and milk supply concerns. Referring the client to a lactation consultant will help ensure that she receives expert assistance tailored to her specific needs, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful breastfeeding. This proactive approach focuses on addressing the root causes of breastfeeding difficulties and supporting the client in achieving her breastfeeding goals.
While positioning the patient for surgery, the nurse notices that the patient's arms are not adequately padded. What should the nurse do?
- A. Proceed with the positioning as planned
- B. Document the observation in the patient's chart
- C. Apply soft padding to the patient's arms to prevent pressure injuries
- D. Inform the surgeon about the inadequate padding
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: If the nurse notices that the patient's arms are not adequately padded while positioning for surgery, the nurse should immediately take action to prevent pressure injuries. Applying soft padding to the patient's arms will help distribute the pressure more evenly, reducing the risk of skin breakdown and potential harm to the patient during the surgical procedure. It is essential to prioritize the patient's safety and comfort in such situations. Simply proceeding with the positioning as planned could lead to complications, so addressing the inadequate padding promptly is the appropriate course of action.