A 45-year-old woman is at the clinic for a mental health assessment. When giving her the Four Unrelated Words Test, the nurse would be concerned if the patient:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the inability to recall four unrelated words after a 30-minute delay indicates potential issues with short-term memory retention, which is concerning for cognitive impairment or memory disorders. This delay allows for the consolidation of memory, so failure at this point suggests a more significant problem compared to immediate recall. A: Not being able to give four unrelated words within 5 minutes may indicate some difficulty, but it does not necessarily indicate a severe issue as more time is typically allowed for this task. B: Inability to give four unrelated words within 30 seconds could be due to various factors such as anxiety or processing speed, but it does not necessarily indicate a memory issue. D: Not being able to recall four unrelated words after a 60-minute delay is expected to be more challenging than a 30-minute delay, so this alone does not raise as much concern as failing the 30-minute delay test.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the presence of a physical characteristic like a scar is an objective finding that can be directly observed and measured during a physical assessment. This information is not subject to interpretation or bias. In contrast, choices A, B, and C involve subjective information that relies on the patient's report or memory, making them less reliable and objective. History of allergies (A) and use of medications (B) are subjective and based on the patient's self-report, while last menstrual period (C) is also subjective and may not always be accurate. Therefore, choice D is the only objective piece of information among the options provided.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Encouraging early ambulation and use of compression stockings. This intervention is crucial post-hip replacement to prevent complications such as blood clots and muscle weakness. Early ambulation helps prevent blood clots by promoting circulation, and compression stockings further aid in preventing deep vein thrombosis. Pain medication (A) is important but not the priority in preventing complications. Providing nutritional support (C) is also important but does not directly prevent post-operative complications. Monitoring for signs of infection (D) is essential but not as immediate as promoting early ambulation to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a proficient nurse should have a holistic view of the patient's situation, focusing on long-term goals rather than just completing tasks. This approach ensures comprehensive care and better outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as it implies reliance on rules over experience. Choice B is incorrect because intuition alone may not always lead to the best solution. Choice C is incorrect as it emphasizes daily plans rather than long-term goals.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Crossing the legs at the knees. This position can cause hip dislocation due to the twisting motion it creates on the hip joint. When the legs are crossed at the knees, it puts stress on the hip joint, potentially leading to dislocation. Choice B: Sitting with the feet flat on the floor is a safe position that does not put undue stress on the hip joint. Choice C: Sleeping on the affected side can also increase the risk of hip dislocation due to the pressure and weight placed on the hip joint in this position. Choice D: Using assistive devices for ambulation is important for stability and support, and it does not directly contribute to hip dislocation if used correctly.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the small, flat, brown macules described are consistent with lentigines (commonly known as age or liver spots), which are clusters of melanocytes that appear after prolonged sun exposure. This explanation directly addresses the patient's question about the cause of the spots and is supported by the clinical presentation. Choice A is incorrect because decreased hematocrit related to anemia would not cause these specific skin changes. Choice B is incorrect as destruction of melanin due to sun exposure would result in lighter spots, not dark brown macules. Choice D is incorrect because hyperpigmentation related to decreased perfusion and vasoconstriction would present differently and not primarily on sun-exposed areas like the arms and hands.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Dry mucous membranes. Dry mucous membranes are a common sign of dehydration as the body lacks adequate fluid. When a person is dehydrated, there is a decrease in saliva production, leading to dryness in the mouth and throat. This can be easily observed during a physical examination by looking at the patient's lips, tongue, and inside of the mouth. On the other hand, increased urine output (choice A) is a sign of adequate hydration, decreased heart rate (choice B) can be a normal response to dehydration but is not a consistent indicator, and increased blood pressure (choice D) is not typically associated with dehydration. Therefore, dry mucous membranes are the most reliable finding to suggest dehydration in a patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: B is correct because patients with CKD often have difficulty excreting potassium, so limiting high potassium foods is crucial to prevent hyperkalemia. A is incorrect because increasing potassium intake is not recommended. C is incorrect as excessive protein intake can worsen kidney function. D is incorrect because CKD patients typically have fluid restrictions to prevent fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Severe headaches and blurred vision. These symptoms can indicate a hypertensive crisis, a severe complication of hypertension. Headaches and blurred vision are signs of potentially dangerous high blood pressure levels. Weight loss and fatigue (B), increased appetite and tremors (C), and nausea and vomiting (D) are not typical complications of hypertension and do not directly relate to the cardiovascular effects of high blood pressure. Monitoring for severe headaches and blurred vision is crucial for early detection and management of hypertensive crises.