A 34 year old client is diagnosed with AIDS. His pharmacologic management includes zidovudine (AZT). During a home visit, the client states, “I don’t understand how this medication works. Will it stop the infection?” What is the nurse’s best response?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should explain that zidovudine (AZT) works by blocking reverse transcriptase, the enzyme necessary for HIV replication. This is the key mechanism of action for AZT in managing HIV. Choice A is incorrect because it provides a partial truth - it does slow the disease process but does not provide the mechanism of action. Choice C is incorrect as it provides incorrect information that there are no medications to stop or cure HIV, which is not true. Choice D is incorrect as it provides misleading information about the drug becoming immune to HIV, which is not the primary concern in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because administering antiemetic medications like metoclopramide and dexamethasone helps control nausea and vomiting post-chemotherapy. Metoclopramide acts on the gut to reduce nausea, while dexamethasone decreases inflammation and suppresses the vomiting reflex. Choice A focuses on dietary interventions but does not address the physiological cause of nausea. Choice B with breathing exercises may help some clients but does not directly address the nausea and vomiting. Choice D is incorrect as withholding fluids can lead to dehydration, which is not recommended after chemotherapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Related to impaired balance. The rationale for this is that a cerebellar brain tumor can affect the client's coordination and balance due to its location in the brain responsible for fine motor movements. Impaired balance increases the risk for falls and injuries. Visual field deficits (choice A) may contribute to the risk of injury but not as directly as impaired balance. Difficulty swallowing (choice C) and psychomotor seizures (choice D) are not directly related to the client's risk for injury due to a cerebellar brain tumor.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscle rigidity and spasms. Ketamine can cause muscle rigidity and spasms as a side effect. The anesthesiologist should monitor the client for this adverse reaction. Muscle rigidity and spasms are common with ketamine administration and can affect the client's comfort and safety during the procedure. It is important for the nurse to promptly address any signs of muscle rigidity or spasms to prevent complications. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: B: Hiccups - Ketamine can cause hiccups, but it is not the primary side effect to monitor for in this scenario. C: Extrapyramidal reactions - Ketamine does not typically cause extrapyramidal reactions. D: Respiratory depression - Ketamine is known for its minimal effect on respiratory depression compared to other anesthetics. Monitoring respiratory depression is still important, but not the primary concern with ketamine administration in this case.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Active listening. Active listening is crucial when working with a dying client and their family as it involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said. This technique helps the nurse show empathy, build trust, and provide emotional support. By actively listening, the nurse can better understand the client's needs and concerns, which is essential in end-of-life care. Reflection (A) involves paraphrasing what the client said, which may not always be appropriate in this sensitive situation. Clarification (B) and Interpretation (C) involve adding one's own understanding or perspective, which can be intrusive and may not align with the client's feelings or beliefs.