What is the initial step in managing a suspected pulmonary embolism in a patient?
- A. Administer oxygen
- B. Reposition the patient
- C. Administer anticoagulants
- D. Administer IV fluids
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Administering oxygen is the initial step in managing a suspected pulmonary embolism. Oxygen therapy is crucial to improve oxygenation levels in the blood when there is a suspected blockage in the pulmonary artery. Administering anticoagulants, although important in the treatment of pulmonary embolism, is not the first step as ensuring adequate oxygen supply takes precedence. Repositioning the patient or administering IV fluids are not the primary interventions for a suspected pulmonary embolism and are not as essential as providing oxygen support.
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What is the appropriate action for a patient experiencing chest pain?
- A. Administer aspirin
- B. Reposition the patient
- C. Check oxygen saturation
- D. Prepare for surgery
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct action for a patient experiencing chest pain is to administer aspirin. Aspirin helps reduce the risk of clot formation in patients with chest pain, as it has antiplatelet effects. Repositioning the patient may not address the underlying cause of the chest pain. Checking oxygen saturation is important but not the initial priority in this scenario. Surgery is not typically the first-line treatment for chest pain without further assessment and diagnostic procedures.
A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Which of the following client statements indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I will check my blood glucose level once a week.
- B. I will eat a snack if my blood glucose level is above 200 mg/dL.
- C. I will take my insulin as prescribed, even when I am feeling well.
- D. I will avoid physical activity if my blood glucose level is below 100 mg/dL.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Clients should eat a snack when their blood glucose level is low, typically below 70-100 mg/dL, not when it is high. Eating a snack when the blood glucose level is above 200 mg/dL can exacerbate hyperglycemia. Choice A is correct as checking blood glucose levels regularly is important in managing diabetes. Choice C is also correct as adherence to prescribed insulin therapy is crucial. Choice D is incorrect as physical activity can help lower blood glucose levels, especially when they are above the target range.
Which assessment finding is most concerning in a patient receiving morphine?
- A. Hypotension
- B. Bradycardia
- C. Respiratory depression
- D. Hypertension
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, respiratory depression. When a patient is receiving morphine, respiratory depression is the most concerning side effect because it can lead to serious complications, including respiratory arrest and even death. Monitoring the patient's respiratory status is crucial to ensure early detection of any signs of respiratory depression. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because although hypotension, bradycardia, and hypertension can occur as side effects of morphine, they are not as immediately life-threatening as respiratory depression in this context.
What is the correct method to teach a patient about self-administration of insulin?
- A. Inject into the upper arm
- B. Rotate injection sites
- C. Use a 45-degree angle for injection
- D. Use a 90-degree angle for injection
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct method to teach a patient about self-administration of insulin is to use a 90-degree angle for injection. This angle ensures proper subcutaneous administration of insulin, which is essential for effective absorption. Injecting into the upper arm (Choice A) is not recommended for insulin administration. While rotating injection sites (Choice B) is important to prevent lipodystrophy, the angle of injection is crucial for proper insulin delivery. Using a 45-degree angle (Choice C) is more suitable for intramuscular injections, not for subcutaneous insulin injections.
How should a healthcare professional monitor a patient receiving IV potassium?
- A. Monitor urine output
- B. Check blood pressure
- C. Monitor IV site
- D. Check respiratory rate
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a patient is receiving IV potassium, it is crucial to monitor the IV site. Potassium can be irritating to the veins and may cause phlebitis or infiltration. Monitoring the IV site allows early detection of any potential complications. Checking urine output (Choice A) is important to assess kidney function but is not directly related to monitoring IV potassium. Blood pressure (Choice B) and respiratory rate (Choice D) are essential vital signs to monitor in general patient care but are not specific to monitoring IV potassium administration.