A 60-year-old patient with a diagnosis of prostate cancer is scheduled to have an interstitial implant for high-dose radiation (HDR). What safety measure should the nurse include in this patients subsequent plan of care?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient undergoing interstitial implant for high-dose radiation (HDR) for prostate cancer will emit radiation that poses a risk to others. Limiting the time that visitors spend at the patient's bedside is essential to minimize their exposure to radiation. It is important to follow safety measures to protect both the patient and others from potential harm. Other options such as teaching the patient to perform basic care independently, assigning male nurses, or situating the patient in a shared room with other brachytherapy patients do not directly address the safety concern of radiation exposure to visitors.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When the patient expresses fear of dying, the best response from the nurse would be to address the patient's concerns directly by asking, "Can you tell me what concerns you most about dying?" This response shows empathy and allows the patient to express their fears and thoughts openly. By understanding the specific concerns, the nurse can provide appropriate support and guidance to help alleviate the patient's fears and anxieties. It also opens up a dialogue for the nurse to provide information and reassurance based on the patient's individual needs and feelings.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate action for a patient with H. pylori is to encourage completion of antibiotic therapy. H. pylori is a bacterium that causes peptic ulcers, and treatment involves a combination of antibiotics to eradicate the infection. Antibiotic therapy is crucial in eliminating the bacteria and preventing complications such as recurrent ulcers or stomach cancer. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize ensuring that the patient completes the prescribed course of antibiotics to effectively treat the H. pylori infection.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse's best response is option C - "AIDS isn't transmitted by casual contact." This response is accurate and provides the necessary information to address the friend's concern. It is important to educate the friend that HIV/AIDS is not transmitted through casual contact such as visiting a patient in the hospital. By stating this fact clearly, the nurse can help alleviate any unfounded fears or misconceptions the friend may have about contracting HIV while visiting the patient. This response promotes understanding and helps reduce stigma associated with HIV/AIDS, while also emphasizing the importance of accurate information in preventing the spread of the virus.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The factor that most contributes to patients in hospice care not receiving adequate attention for their symptoms of the underlying illness is the unwillingness of patients and families to acknowledge that the patient is terminal. When patients and families are in denial or struggle to accept the terminal nature of the illness, they may avoid focusing on symptom management and comfort care that is essential in hospice care. This can prevent healthcare providers from effectively addressing and managing the patient's symptoms, leading to unnecessary suffering for the patient. Accepting the terminal nature of the illness allows for a shift in focus towards providing quality end-of-life care that prioritizes symptom management and comfort for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient should continue taking his corticosteroids regularly prior to testing. Corticosteroids can suppress the body's immune response and affect the results of skin tests by potentially causing a false-negative result. Instructing the patient to maintain his regular corticosteroid regimen will help ensure accurate testing results. It is essential to consult with the healthcare provider to determine the appropriate timing for testing in relation to corticosteroid use.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: B. Overall psychological functioning: It is crucial for the home care nurse to assess the patient's overall psychological functioning after a total mastectomy without reconstruction. The patient may be experiencing emotional distress, body image disturbances, anxiety, or depression related to the surgery and changes in physical appearance. The nurse should evaluate the patient's coping mechanisms, emotional well-being, and any signs of psychological implications to provide appropriate support and referral for mental health services if needed.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The symptoms of urinary frequency, dysuria, and fever in a 35-year-old man are indicative of chronic bacterial prostatitis. Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland, which can be caused by bacterial infection. Chronic bacterial prostatitis is characterized by recurrent episodes of infection leading to symptoms like urinary urgency, frequency, dysuria, and sometimes fever. It is important to identify and treat chronic bacterial prostatitis promptly to prevent complications and improve quality of life for the patient.