A client is admitted with head trauma after a fall. The client is being prepared for a supratentorial craniotomy with burr holes, and an intravenous infusion of mannitol is instituted. The nurse concludes that this medication primarily is given to do what?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Mannitol (D) is an osmotic diuretic given pre-craniotomy to decrease brain fluid, reducing ICP. It doesn't primarily lower BP (A), prevent hypoglycemia (B), or boost cardiac output (C). D is correct. Rationale: Mannitol draws fluid from brain tissue into the bloodstream, lowering ICP, a key pre-surgical intervention in head trauma, per neurosurgical standards, targeting cerebral edema directly.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When a nurse faces a trial under criminal law, it involves a legal action initiated by the state or government, representing society as a whole, rather than a private entity or individual. Criminal law addresses offenses deemed harmful to the public, such as negligence causing harm or intentional misconduct. Unlike civil cases, where an individual or organization might sue for damages, criminal cases are prosecuted by the state to uphold public safety and justice. The nurse's actions are evaluated against legal standards that protect society, making this the most accurate description. Other options, like the plaintiff's lawyer or an individual, pertain more to civil litigation, while an organization might be involved in internal discipline but not a criminal trial. This distinction is critical in understanding the scope and authority behind criminal proceedings in nursing practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Charting a medication intervention immediately after administration ensures accuracy and legal protection. Delaying until the shift ends, before the next dose, or within an hour risks forgetting details like dosage or client response compromising the record's reliability. Immediate documentation captures the exact time and outcome, such as pain relief post-analgesic, critical if issues arise later. This practice upholds standards, supports continuity of care, and defends the nurse in potential disputes, reflecting the urgency of real-time recording in dynamic clinical settings.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A wet dressing from water spill requires removal and replacement to prevent infection and maintain a healing environment. Reinforcing keeps moisture, drying with a hairdryer risks burns or contamination, and air drying is slow and ineffective. This action ensures wound integrity, a core nursing responsibility.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Weighing a client at the same time daily ensures consistency, accounting for fluid and food variations. Rest, post-bath, or priority timing lacks this precision. Nurses use this for accurate monitoring.