Which hemodynamic parameter is most appropriate for the nurse to monitor to determine the effectiveness of medications given to a patient to reduce left ventricular afterload?
- A. Mean arterial pressure (MAP)
- B. Systemic vascular resistance (SVR)
- C. Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR)
- D. Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Systemic vascular resistance (SVR). SVR reflects the resistance the heart must overcome to pump blood into the systemic circulation. By monitoring SVR, the nurse can assess the effectiveness of medications aimed at reducing left ventricular afterload, as these medications work by dilating blood vessels and reducing resistance. An effective reduction in afterload would lead to a decrease in SVR.
A: Mean arterial pressure (MAP) is an indicator of perfusion pressure but may not directly reflect changes in afterload.
C: Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) is specific to the pulmonary circulation and not directly related to left ventricular afterload.
D: Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) is a measure of left ventricular preload and filling pressures, not afterload.
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The nurse uses subtle measures of painful stimuli, such as nailbed pressure to elicit a response from a neurologically impaired patient. By using this meth od rather than nipple pinching, the nurse is exemplifying what ethical principle?
- A. Beneficence
- B. Fidelity
- C. Nonmaleficence
- D. Veracity
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Nonmaleficence. The nurse is demonstrating nonmaleficence by choosing a less harmful method (nailbed pressure) to assess pain in a neurologically impaired patient, instead of a more painful method (nipple pinching). Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle of avoiding harm or minimizing harm to the patient. In this scenario, the nurse is prioritizing the well-being and comfort of the patient by using a less invasive and painful method to elicit a response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because beneficence refers to doing good for the patient, fidelity to being loyal and maintaining trust, and veracity to truthfulness and honesty, none of which directly apply in this situation.
A nurse in a burn unit observes that a patient is tensed up and frowning but silent. The nurse asks the patient, Can you tell me what you are thinking now? The patient responds, I cant take this pain any more! I feel like Im about to die. What would be the best response for the nurse to give to the patient, considering that the patient is already receiving the maximum amount pain medication that is safe?
- A. Try to get rid of those negative thoughtsthey only make it worse.
- B. Try thinking instead, This pain will go away; I can overcome it.
- C. Your pain medication is already at the highest possible dose.
- D. Would you like me to raise the head of your bed?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct response is C: Your pain medication is already at the highest possible dose. This response acknowledges the patient's pain and reassures them that they are already receiving the maximum safe amount of pain medication. By stating this, the nurse is validating the patient's experience and showing empathy. It is important for the nurse to communicate clearly about the medication to manage the patient's expectations.
Choice A is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's pain and can come across as insensitive. Choice B may be well-intentioned but does not address the immediate concern of the patient's pain. Choice D is irrelevant to the patient's statement about pain and does not offer any immediate support or reassurance regarding the pain management.
Which strategy is important to addressing issues associated with the aging workforce? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Allowing nurses to work flexible shift durations
- B. Encouraging older nurses to transfer to an outpatient se tting that is less stressful
- C. Hiring nurse technicians that are available to assist wit h patient care, such as turning the patient
- D. Developing a staffing model that accurately reflects th e unit’s needs.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Allowing nurses to work flexible shift durations. This strategy is important in addressing issues associated with the aging workforce because it acknowledges the changing needs and preferences of older nurses. By offering flexible shift durations, older nurses can better manage their work-life balance, reduce physical strain, and continue contributing to the workforce effectively.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the specific needs of the aging workforce. Encouraging older nurses to transfer to a less stressful outpatient setting may not align with their career goals. Hiring nurse technicians to assist with patient care may not address the unique experience and expertise of older nurses. Developing a staffing model, while important, does not specifically cater to the needs of aging nurses in terms of flexibility and support.
A patient in hospice care is experiencing dyspnea. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
- A. Position the patient flat on their back.
- B. Administer oxygen as prescribed.
- C. Restrict fluid intake to reduce congestion.
- D. Perform chest physiotherapy to improve breathing.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer oxygen as prescribed. Dyspnea in a hospice patient often indicates respiratory distress, and administering oxygen can help improve oxygenation and alleviate breathing difficulty. Positioning the patient flat on their back (A) may worsen dyspnea due to increased pressure on the diaphragm. Restricting fluid intake (C) is not appropriate as dehydration can exacerbate respiratory distress. Chest physiotherapy (D) may not be suitable for a hospice patient experiencing dyspnea as it can be physically taxing and may not address the underlying cause effectively.
Which is the most important outcome for a patient receiving palliative care?
- A. Complete resolution of the underlying disease.
- B. Improvement in symptoms and quality of life.
- C. Increased adherence to curative treatments.
- D. Achievement of long-term survival goals.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Improvement in symptoms and quality of life. In palliative care, the primary focus is on enhancing the patient's quality of life by managing symptoms and providing comfort. This is achieved through effective symptom control, psychosocial support, and improving overall well-being. Complete resolution of the underlying disease (A) is often not possible in palliative care as the focus shifts from curative treatments to comfort care. Increased adherence to curative treatments (C) may not be the main goal in palliative care, as the emphasis is on improving the patient's comfort rather than prolonging life. Achievement of long-term survival goals (D) is not typically the primary outcome in palliative care, as the focus is on providing support and care for patients with life-limiting illnesses.