A client with ascites has a paracentesis, and 1500 ml of fluid is removed. Immediately following the procedure it is most important for the nurse to observe for:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: A rapid, thready pulse. After paracentesis, rapid removal of ascitic fluid can lead to a decrease in intravascular volume, causing hypovolemia and subsequent compensatory mechanisms like tachycardia (rapid pulse). This is a crucial sign that the nurse should monitor for early detection of hypovolemia. B: Decreased peristalsis is not directly related to paracentesis and is not an immediate concern post-procedure. C: Respiratory congestion is not a common complication of paracentesis and is not the most immediate concern. D: An increased temperature is not a typical response to paracentesis and is not a priority observation post-procedure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: IV is the route of choice for rapid administration. IV route allows for quick onset of action, crucial in acutely fluid-overloaded patients needing immediate diuresis. Option A is incorrect as furosemide can be given orally too. Option C is less relevant in this urgent situation where speed is key. Option D is also incorrect as the side effects are not determined by route of administration.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: White patches on the tonsils. Group A streptococci infection commonly presents with exudative tonsillitis, characterized by the presence of white patches or pus on the tonsils. This is due to the inflammatory response triggered by the bacteria. Hypertrophied tonsils (B), hemorrhage in the tonsils (C), and bleeding in the tonsils (D) are less likely to be visual signs of a streptococcal infection and are more indicative of other conditions or complications. Therefore, white patches on the tonsils are the most specific visual sign associated with group A streptococci tonsillar infection.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because nosocomial pneumonia occurs in a healthcare setting, such as hospitals or long-term care facilities, where patients are at increased risk due to exposure to pathogens and weakened immune systems. Choice B is incorrect as the timeframe of onset is not limited to within 48 hours of admission. Choice C is incorrect as nosocomial pneumonia can occur in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to pneumonia acquired outside of a healthcare setting.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: IgM. During an acute infection, the body's initial response is rapid and non-specific, leading to the production of IgM antibodies first. IgM is the first immunoglobulin class produced in response to a new antigen, providing immediate protection. IgG is produced later in the immune response and is responsible for long-term immunity. IgE is involved in allergic reactions and parasitic infections, not typically the first response to infection. IgD is primarily found on the surface of B cells and its function is not well understood in the context of acute infections.