What is the priority nursing action for a laboring client dilated to 6 cm receiving an epidural?
- A. Continuous monitoring of maternal blood pressure.
- B. Frequent auscultation of the fetal heart rate.
- C. Administering an IV fluid bolus of at least 500 cc.
- D. Frequent monitoring of the maternal temperature.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The priority nursing action for a laboring client dilated to 6 cm receiving an epidural is continuous monitoring of maternal blood pressure. This is crucial because epidural anesthesia can lead to a precipitous drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for both the mother and fetus by reducing cardiac output and placental perfusion. While frequent auscultation of the fetal heart rate is important, it is not the priority in this situation. Administering an IV fluid bolus of at least 500 cc may not be necessary if the client's blood pressure is stable. Monitoring the maternal temperature is also essential but takes precedence over blood pressure monitoring.
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The client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is asking for help with the repetitive behaviors. The nurse knows that these are a method of dealing with:
- A. Fearful situations
- B. Depression
- C. Delusions
- D. Anxiety
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Anxiety. Repetitive behaviors in OCD serve as a way for individuals to cope with their anxiety. These behaviors are often performed to reduce the distress caused by obsessive thoughts. Choice A, fearful situations, is incorrect because the behaviors are more related to managing anxiety rather than fear itself. Choice B, depression, is incorrect as OCD behaviors are not typically a method of coping with depression. Choice C, delusions, is also incorrect as these behaviors are not aimed at managing delusional thoughts but rather anxiety in OCD.
The nurse is caring for a client who is 28 weeks pregnant and complains of swollen hands and feet. Which symptom below would cause the greatest concern?
- A. Nasal congestion
- B. Hiccups
- C. Blood glucose of 150
- D. Muscle spasms
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is muscle spasms because they can be indicative of a severe condition like preeclampsia, which is a serious complication during pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, most often the liver and kidneys. Nasal congestion and hiccups are common discomforts during pregnancy and do not pose a severe risk to the client or fetus. A blood glucose level of 150, while slightly elevated, may not be alarming in a pregnant individual and can be managed through dietary modifications or medication adjustments. Muscle spasms, especially in the context of pregnancy, should be taken seriously and thoroughly assessed to rule out any underlying serious conditions.
The power a healthcare professional exerts when working to accomplish goals and effect change in an agency or policy is considered what type of power?
- A. political
- B. personal
- C. positional
- D. professional
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Political power is the correct answer in this scenario. It stems from the ability to navigate systems, agencies, or policies to bring about change. Personal power is related to charisma and self-confidence in informal leadership roles. Positional power comes from holding a specific authority in a formal position. Professional power is derived from expertise in a particular area of practice. Therefore, in the context of effecting change in an agency or policy, political power is the most relevant type of power.
The newborn nursery is filled to capacity. Which newborn should the nurse assess first?
- A. A three-hour-old just waking up after a period of sleep
- B. A two-day-old crying loudly
- C. A three-day-old two hours after circumcision
- D. A one-hour-old sucking his fist
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The most critical time for assessment in a newborn is during the second period of reactivity, which occurs approximately 3-5 hours after delivery. During this phase, newborns are more likely to gag on mucus and aspirate, making it crucial for the nurse to assess their respiratory status first. Choice A indicates a newborn in this critical phase, requiring immediate assessment for potential airway compromise or respiratory distress. Choices B, C, and D do not present an immediate need for assessment related to airway compromise or respiratory distress.
What is the number one reason a person with alcohol addiction does not seek treatment?
- A. Co-dependency
- B. Denial
- C. Depression
- D. Stigma
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Denial. Individuals with alcohol addiction often deny that they have a drinking problem and may become defensive when confronted about it. This sense of denial can be a significant barrier to seeking treatment. Co-dependency, referred to in choice A, is a relationship dynamic and is not the primary reason for avoiding treatment. Depression, as mentioned in choice C, is a common co-occurring condition with alcohol addiction but is not typically the main factor preventing treatment-seeking. Stigma, as in choice D, can act as a deterrent, but denial of the problem itself is usually the primary obstacle to seeking help.