417. During the resuscitative phase of Mr. Aspen’s care, the most important variable to monitor, aside from vital signs, is the

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the resuscitative phase of care for a patient like Mr. Aspen, monitoring urine output is crucial as it provides essential information about kidney function and fluid balance. This is important for assessing the effectiveness of resuscitation efforts and ensuring adequate organ perfusion. Option A is correct because in critically ill patients, maintaining adequate urine output is indicative of sufficient cardiac output and renal perfusion, which are essential for overall patient stability and recovery. Option B, pain level, while important, is not the most critical variable to monitor during the resuscitative phase. Pain management is crucial for patient comfort, but it does not directly impact physiological stability in the same way urine output does. Option C, central venous pressure, may provide information about fluid status, but it is not as reliable or immediate as monitoring urine output in assessing kidney function and fluid balance during resuscitation. Option D, progression of wound healing, is not a priority during the resuscitative phase when the focus is on stabilizing vital functions and ensuring organ perfusion. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of prioritizing key physiological parameters in the management of critically ill patients and underscores the significance of monitoring urine output as a vital sign in assessing fluid status and renal function.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: blister. Heat can cause separation of skin layers leading to fluid accumulation, forming a blister. A callus is a thickened area of skin due to pressure or friction, not fluid accumulation. A nevus is a mole or birthmark, not related to heat. A bubo is a swollen lymph node, not related to skin separation due to heat.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, dermis. White blood cells play a crucial role in the immune system, primarily located in the blood and lymphatic system. The dermis contains a network of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, making it a hub for white blood cells to travel and function effectively in immune responses. Choices A and B are incorrect as they are primarily related to skin layers rather than immune cell distribution. Choice D is incorrect as while white blood cells can be found in various tissues, the highest concentration is typically in the dermis due to its rich blood and lymph supply.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because sunlight triggers the conversion of a precursor molecule in the skin, not a form of protein, into vitamin D. This process occurs in the skin when UV rays hit a compound called 7-dehydrocholesterol, converting it into vitamin D. Melanocytes produce melanin in response to UV exposure to protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays, making choice D true. Choices A and C are incorrect because UV rays can indeed cause mutations in skin cells and stimulate melanocytes to produce more melanin, respectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: FALSE. Repositioning an incapacitated patient every 2 hours is recommended to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers, not every 4 hours. This frequent repositioning helps to relieve pressure on bony prominences and improves circulation. Repositioning every 4 hours may increase the risk of pressure ulcer development. Choice A is incorrect because repositioning every 4 hours is not sufficient to prevent pressure ulcers. Choices C and D are not applicable as they are left blank.