A client with congestive heart failure has been receiving digoxin (lanoxin). Which finding indicates that the medication is having a desired effect?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Digoxin is a medication commonly used in the treatment of congestive heart failure because it helps to improve cardiac output and reduce heart failure symptoms. One of the desired effects of digoxin is an increase in urinary output. This is because digoxin helps to improve cardiac function, which can lead to better circulation and increased kidney perfusion. As a result, the kidneys are better able to filter and excrete excess fluid, leading to increased urine output. Therefore, an increase in urinary output indicates that the digoxin is having a positive effect in managing the client's congestive heart failure. The other options, such as increased weight, improved appetite, and increased pedal edema, are not indicative of a desired effect of digoxin therapy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In cases where a patient becomes seriously ill or is harmed due to receiving the wrong medication, both the nurse and the hospital are likely to be held liable. The nurse is responsible for administering the correct medication to the patient, and any error in this process can lead to harm. The hospital may also be held liable for the actions of its employees, including nurses, under the legal principle of vicarious liability. Additionally, the hospital has a duty to ensure that proper protocols are in place to prevent medication errors, and failure to do so can lead to liability. Therefore, in this scenario, both the nurse and the hospital are likely to share liability for the patient's harm.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Type I IgE-mediated immediate hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are promptly managed with epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis as it helps counteract the severe symptoms by relaxing the muscles in the airways, constricting blood vessels, and decreasing swelling. It acts quickly to reverse the potentially life-threatening effects of the allergic reaction and is crucial in managing anaphylaxis effectively. Other medications like antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine) and corticosteroids may be used as adjuncts, but epinephrine remains the primary treatment for immediate hypersensitivity reactions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a patient is in skin traction, the constant pressure and rubbing against the skin from the traction device can lead to skin breakdown. Therefore, assessing for signs of skin breakdown, such as redness, irritation, or pressure injuries, is crucial to prevent complications and ensure the patient's comfort and safety. Prompt identification and intervention for any skin issues can prevent further damage and promote healing, making this the priority intervention for quality nursing care in skin traction. While monitoring for signs of infection, urinary incontinence, and bowel sounds are important, skin breakdown poses a more immediate threat to the patient's well-being in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Qualitative research data are typically in text form rather than numeric or statistical data. This means that the data collected through qualitative research methods are descriptive and usually presented in the form of words, phrases, or narratives. Qualitative data often involve subjective interpretations, opinions, and in-depth insights, making text a more suitable format for capturing these nuances compared to numerical or quantitative data. The focus in qualitative research is on understanding experiences, meanings, and perspectives, which are best conveyed through textual data.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The presentation of sudden-onset severe headache, vomiting, and altered mental status, along with the presence of a berry-shaped aneurysm on imaging, point towards a diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage. The most common cause of a subarachnoid hemorrhage is the rupture of a saccular (berry) aneurysm, which commonly occurs at the junction of the anterior communicating artery and anterior cerebral artery. The sudden headache is often described as the "worst headache of my life" and is typically associated with nausea and vomiting. Altered mental status may be present due to the effects of increased intracranial pressure and possible associated brain injury. It is important to promptly diagnose and manage subarachnoid hemorrhage to prevent complications such as vasospasm, rebleeding, and ischemic deficits.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a woman in active labor is receiving intravenous oxytocin for labor augmentation, it is essential to increase the oxytocin infusion rate gradually to prevent oxytocin-induced uterine hyperstimulation. Uterine hyperstimulation can lead to complications such as fetal distress, uterine rupture, and postpartum hemorrhage. By increasing the oxytocin infusion rate gradually, the uterus has more time to adapt to the medication and reduces the risk of hyperstimulation. It is crucial for the healthcare provider to carefully monitor the woman's response to oxytocin and adjust the infusion rate as needed to ensure safe and effective labor augmentation. Monitoring for signs of uterine hyperstimulation, such as persistent contractions close together or excessive uterine activity, is crucial in preventing complications and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and baby.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication primarily used in the treatment of schizophrenia. One of the positive effects of Clozapine is the reduction of psychotic symptoms experienced by the patient, such as hallucinations (not hearing loss). Clozapine is effective in managing both positive symptoms (hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking) and negative symptoms (apathy, social withdrawal, lack of motivation) of schizophrenia. It is known for its efficacy in reducing hallucinations and other psychotic symptoms, helping the patient to lead a more stable and functional life.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: It is important for the nurse to explore Ella's feelings further when she expresses thoughts of wishing to be dead and struggling with not having someone around. These statements indicate that Ella may be experiencing emotional distress or depression, which require immediate attention. By exploring Ella's feelings, the nurse can assess the severity of her emotional state, provide appropriate support, and potentially prevent any harm or self-harm. It is crucial to address and validate her emotions, as well as to initiate necessary interventions to ensure her safety and well-being.