Nokea
You are caring for a patient who has just been told that his illness is progressing and nothing more can be done for him. After the physician leaves, the patient asks you to stay with him for a while. The patient becomes tearful and tries several times to say something, but cannot get the words out. What would be an appropriate response for you to make at this time?
- A. Can I give you some advice?
- B. Do you need more time to think about this?
- C. Is there anything you want to say?
- D. I have cared for lots of patients in your position. It will get easier.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: This response shows empathy and allows the patient to express their thoughts and feelings without feeling rushed or pressured. By asking the patient if there is anything they want to say, you are showing that you are there to listen and support them during this difficult time. It is important to give the patient the space and opportunity to communicate their emotions and concerns. Offering advice or making assumptions about the patient's feelings may not be as helpful as simply providing a listening ear.
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The nurse is monitoring a patient with severe preeclampsia who is on IV magnesium sulfate. Which signs of magnesium toxicity should the nurse monitor for? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Cool, clammy skin
- B. Altered sensorium
- C. Pulse oximeter reading of 95%
- D. Respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The signs of magnesium toxicity that the nurse should monitor for in a patient with severe preeclampsia on IV magnesium sulfate include an altered sensorium (confusion, lethargy, slurred speech) and a respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute. Altered sensorium is a common symptom of magnesium toxicity, reflecting the drug's central nervous system depressant effects. A decreased respiratory rate can indicate respiratory depression, a potentially serious complication of magnesium toxicity. Monitoring for these signs is crucial to promptly identifying and managing magnesium toxicity in patients on magnesium sulfate therapy. Signs such as cool, clammy skin and a pulse oximeter reading of 95% would not be indicative of magnesium toxicity.
A female patient with HIV has just been diagnosed with condylomata acuminata (genital warts). What information is most appropriate for the nurse to tell this patient?
- A. This condition puts her at a higher risk for cervical cancer; therefore, she should have a Papanicolaou (Pap) test annually.
- B. The most common treatment is metronidazole (Flagyl), which should eradicate the problem within 7 to 10 days.
- C. The potential for transmission to her sexual partner will be eliminated if condoms are used every time they have sexual intercourse.
- D. The human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes condylomata acuminata, cannot be transmitted during oral sex.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The most appropriate information for the nurse to tell the patient is option A, which states that this condition puts her at a higher risk for cervical cancer; therefore, she should have a Papanicolaou (Pap) test annually. Condylomata acuminata, or genital warts, is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Certain strains of HPV, specifically types 16 and 18, are considered high-risk strains that can lead to cervical cancer in women. Therefore, regular Pap tests are crucial for early detection of any cervical changes that could indicate pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions. It is important for the patient to be informed about this risk and the importance of regular screening to monitor her cervical health.
When planning care for an adolescent who plays sports, which modification should the nurse include in the care plan?
- A. Increasing carbohydrates to 55% to 60% of total intake
- B. Providing vitamin and mineral supplements
- C. Decreasing protein intake to 0.75 g/kg/day
- D. Limiting water before and after exercise
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When planning care for an adolescent who plays sports, it is important to provide adequate nutrition to meet their increased energy needs. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy, providing fuel for physical activity. Adolescents engaged in sports require a higher carbohydrate intake and should aim for 55% to 60% of their total daily kilocalories to support their activity levels. Carbohydrates are essential for providing energy during exercise, building and repairing muscles, and promoting overall performance. Increasing carbohydrate intake in the diet is a key modification to support the energy demands of an active adolescent involved in sports.
A patient has been admitted to the neurologic ICU with a diagnosis of a brain tumor. The patient is scheduled to have a tumor resection/removal in the morning. Which of the following assessment parameters should the nurse include in the initial assessment?
- A. Gag reflex
- B. Deep tendon reflexes
- C. Abdominal girth
- D. Hearing acuity
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The most critical assessment parameter to include in the initial assessment of a patient with a brain tumor scheduled for surgery is the gag reflex. The gag reflex is a protective mechanism that prevents the entry of foreign objects into the airway and lungs. Patients undergoing brain tumor resection may be at risk for impaired gag reflex due to the effects of the tumor on cranial nerves or related structures. Identifying any impairment in the gag reflex is essential to prevent aspiration during and after the surgical procedure. Monitoring the gag reflex allows the healthcare team to take necessary precautions to protect the patient's airway and prevent complications. Therefore, assessing the gag reflex is crucial in the care of a patient with a brain tumor undergoing surgery.
The nurse educator is discussing neoplasms with a group of recent graduates. The educator explains that he effects of neoplasms are caused by the compression and infiltration of normal tissue. The physiologic changes that result can cause what pathophysiologic events? Select all that apply.
- A. Intracranial hemorrhage
- B. Infection of cerebrospinal fluid
- C. Increased ICP
- D. Focal neurologic signs E) Altered pituitary function
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Neoplasms can cause pathophysiologic events such as intracranial hemorrhage and increased intracranial pressure (ICP) due to expansion of the mass within the confined space of the skull. Intracranial hemorrhage can occur as the neoplasm damages blood vessels in the brain or causes them to become more fragile. Increased ICP can result from the growing mass causing compression of surrounding structures and obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, leading to symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and changes in mental status.