A 23-year-old patient is in the clinic and appears anxious. Her speech is rapid. She is fidgety and in constant motion. Which of the following questions or statements would be most appropriate for the nurse to use in this situation to assess attention span?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it involves a specific and observable task that assesses attention span. By asking the patient to perform a physical action that requires focus and coordination, the nurse can directly evaluate the patient's ability to follow instructions and maintain attention. This task also helps to assess motor skills and coordination, which can be affected in certain conditions associated with anxiety and restlessness. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not directly assess attention span. Choice A focuses on emotions and behavior rather than attention. Choice B assesses memory recall rather than attention span. Choice C tests comprehension and interpretation skills related to a phrase, but it does not evaluate attention span directly.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Atrial fibrillation. Patients with a history of stroke are at an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, a common cause of ischemic stroke. Monitoring for signs of atrial fibrillation such as irregular heartbeat, palpitations, dizziness, and chest discomfort is crucial for early detection and prevention of recurrent strokes. Pulmonary embolism (A), chronic kidney disease (C), and sepsis (D) are not directly associated with a history of stroke and would not be the primary focus of monitoring in this case.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: mental health issues. When taking a family history, mental health issues are important as they can have a genetic component and can impact the patient's overall health. Emphysema (A) is a respiratory condition, head trauma (B) is not typically hereditary, and fractured bones (D) are usually due to accidents or osteoporosis, not genetic.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: A patient's perception of his or her health status. In a total health database for a well person, it is important to include the patient's own perception of their health status as it provides valuable insights into their overall well-being and can help detect any potential health issues early on. This information is crucial for preventive care and promoting a patient-centered approach to healthcare. A: Nursing goals for the patient - This information would be relevant for a patient with specific health goals or conditions but not necessarily for a well person. B: Anticipated growth and development patterns - This information is more relevant for pediatric or adolescent populations rather than for a well adult. D: The nurse's perception of disease as related to this patient - The nurse's perception is subjective and not as valuable as the patient's own perception in understanding their health status.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because spirituality is a personal and intrinsic search for meaning and purpose in life, which is central to the human experience. This definition aligns with the concept of spirituality as a journey of self-discovery and reflection, independent of organized religion or cultural background. Explanation for why other choices are incorrect: A: Worshiping a higher power within an organization implies a religious practice rather than spirituality, which is more individualistic and introspective. B: Attendance at a specific house of worship is a religious practice, not necessarily reflective of spirituality, which can exist outside formal religious institutions. D: While spirituality can be influenced by cultural background, it is not solely tied to it, as it transcends social, ethnic, and historical boundaries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Asking the patient to rate pain on a scale of 0 to 10 is a standard pain assessment tool, allowing for quantification and tracking of pain intensity. Step 2: This question helps in understanding the severity of pain objectively. Step 3: It provides a baseline for further pain management interventions. Step 4: Other choices are incorrect as they do not directly address assessing pain intensity or severity. Summary: Option A is the most appropriate as it focuses on quantifying pain, which is crucial for effective pain management. Choices B, C, and D are not as relevant for assessing pain intensity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encouraging early ambulation. Early ambulation helps prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism by improving circulation and preventing blood clots. It also promotes joint mobility and muscle strength. Providing pain medication (B) is important but not as crucial as preventing complications. Monitoring for signs of infection (C) is essential but not the most important intervention. Administering antibiotics before surgery (D) does not directly prevent post-operative complications related to knee replacement.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it reflects the shift towards a holistic view of health focusing on preventive measures and lifestyle choices. In the 1950s, the emphasis was more on treating diseases rather than preventing them through healthy habits. Choice B is incorrect as it only focuses on identifying pathogens, not overall health. Choice C is incorrect because it emphasizes physician-centered healthcare rather than individual responsibility. Choice D is incorrect as it only considers the absence of symptoms, not overall well-being. Therefore, A is the best choice as it aligns with the modern understanding of health promotion and disease prevention.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it respects the girl's privacy and allows her to speak freely without parental influence. By asking the parents to step out, the nurse creates a safe space for the girl to discuss any sensitive issues. Choice A may inhibit the girl's honest communication. Choice B risks the parents dominating the conversation. Choice C may make the girl uncomfortable discussing personal matters in front of her parents.