When a client with dementia frequently becomes agitated, what should the nurse prioritize investigating?
- A. Fluid and electrolyte imbalances
- B. Medication history
- C. Environmental factors
- D. Cognitive functioning
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to prioritize investigating the client's medication history. This is important because certain medications can contribute to agitation in clients with dementia. Understanding the medication history can help identify potential causes of agitation and guide appropriate interventions. Checking for fluid and electrolyte imbalances is important in healthcare but may not directly relate to the client's agitation. While environmental factors can influence behavior, investigating the medication history is more pertinent in this case. Cognitive functioning assessment is crucial in dementia care but may not be the priority when addressing acute agitation.
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A nurse in a long-term care facility is reviewing information about health care-associated infections with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
- A. Frequent hand washing prevents infection
- B. Prolonged use of corticosteroids increases infection risk
- C. Limit patient interaction to reduce infection spread
- D. Restrict client movement to prevent contamination
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because prolonged use of corticosteroids is a known risk factor for infections. Choice A is incorrect because frequent hand washing actually helps prevent infections. Choice C is incorrect as patient interaction is essential in healthcare but should be done following proper infection control measures. Choice D is also incorrect as restricting client movement is not a standard practice to prevent contamination.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize for a client with dementia who is at risk of falls?
- A. Use restraints to prevent the client from leaving the bed
- B. Use a bed exit alarm system to notify staff when the client attempts to leave the bed
- C. Encourage frequent ambulation with assistance
- D. Raise all four side rails to prevent falls
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Using a bed exit alarm system is a non-restrictive intervention that alerts staff when the client tries to leave the bed, promoting safety and preventing falls. Choice A is incorrect because using restraints can have adverse effects and should be avoided whenever possible. Choice C is not the priority for a client at risk of falls due to dementia as it may increase the risk of falls without proper supervision. Choice D is also not recommended as raising all four side rails can lead to restraint and should be used cautiously, if at all. Therefore, the best option is to use a bed exit alarm system to ensure the client's safety while allowing some freedom of movement.
What are the early signs of hypoglycemia in a diabetic patient?
- A. Sweating and trembling
- B. Confusion and irritability
- C. Dizziness and increased heart rate
- D. Nausea and vomiting
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Sweating and trembling.' These are classic early signs of hypoglycemia in a diabetic patient. Sweating occurs due to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system in response to low blood sugar levels, while trembling is a result of the body's attempt to increase muscle activity to raise blood sugar levels. Confusion and irritability (Choice B) are more advanced signs of hypoglycemia that occur if the condition is not treated promptly. Dizziness and increased heart rate (Choice C) can also occur but are not as specific and early as sweating and trembling. Nausea and vomiting (Choice D) are more commonly associated with other conditions or severe hypoglycemia, rather than being early signs.
What is the primary intervention for sepsis?
- A. Administer IV antibiotics
- B. Monitor blood pressure
- C. Administer fluids
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The primary intervention for sepsis involves a multifaceted approach, including administering IV antibiotics to address the underlying infection and administering fluids to stabilize the patient's hemodynamic status. Monitoring blood pressure is important in the management of sepsis, but it is not the sole primary intervention. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above' as it encompasses the comprehensive approach required for effective sepsis management.
Which assessment finding is expected with myxedema?
- A. Increased pulse rate
- B. Decreased temperature
- C. Fine tremors
- D. Weight loss
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Myxedema is characterized by a decreased metabolic rate, leading to manifestations such as decreased temperature. Therefore, the correct assessment finding expected with myxedema is a decreased temperature. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because myxedema typically presents with a decreased pulse rate, not an increased pulse rate, absence of fine tremors (which are more common in hyperthyroidism), and weight gain rather than weight loss.