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: C

Rationale: The analytic approach refers to a method that views factors that influence health and by which interventions to improve health are directed. In this case, utilizing an analytic approach in the research means looking into the root causes of the health problems in the community, analyzing various factors that contribute to the prevalence of obesity and heart ailments, and developing targeted interventions to address these issues effectively. This approach involves identifying underlying reasons for health problems and strategically planning interventions to improve the health outcomes of the community.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart. Patients with pericarditis typically present with sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, changes in body position, and coughing. The pain tends to improve when the patient leans forward. This characteristic symptom of pericarditis is known as "pleuritic" chest pain. In contrast, stable angina presents as predictable chest pain that occurs with exertion and is relieved by rest or medications. Unstable angina is characterized by chest pain that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion and is considered a medical emergency. Myocarditis involves inflammation of the heart muscle and may present with symptoms such as chest pain, but it does not typically have the characteristic of worsening with deep breathing or changes in body position.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the case of Romy being diagnosed with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and undergoing palliative treatment, the most appropriate nursing action is to focus on providing relief from symptoms. Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses by managing their symptoms, such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and other side effects of treatment. As the cancer is advanced and the goal is not curative treatment but rather to keep the patient comfortable, symptom management becomes a priority to ensure Romy's physical comfort and well-being during this difficult time. Providing relief from symptoms is crucial in palliative care to help enhance the patient's quality of life and ensure they are as comfortable as possible.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Medical records are typically required to be retained for a certain period of time as mandated by legal and regulatory requirements. The retention period for medical records is generally between 5 to 10 years, depending on the jurisdiction and specific regulations governing healthcare facilities. Keeping medical records for this duration ensures that they are available for reference, audits, legal purposes, and continuity of care for patients. Storing medical records for an adequate length of time also helps in ensuring continuity of care and tracking patients' medical history over time, which is crucial for quality healthcare delivery. Therefore, storing charts in the Medical Records or storage room for at least 5-10 years aligns with standard practices in healthcare compliance and patient care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Meperidine (Demerol) is an opioid analgesic. Overdose of Meperidine can lead to respiratory depression, characterized by slow and shallow breathing. As a result of respiratory depression, hypercapnia, which is an increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood, can occur. This is a serious concern and requires immediate medical intervention to support respiratory function. Therefore, hypercapnia would be the assessment by the nurse that causes a concern for Meperidine overdose.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In delegation, facilitating the professional growth and development of a staff is necessary because it allows team members to gain new skills and experience, leading to overall improved productivity and job satisfaction. This empowers staff and helps them feel more engaged in their work, ultimately benefiting the entire unit. Effective delegation should aim to support individuals in their roles, encourage learning, and build competence, rather than modifying standards of care or only delegating tasks without considering individual growth. Starting delegation from top management to staff-nurse level may not always be practical or efficient, as delegation should be based on competencies and responsibilities. Accountability is indeed a crucial aspect of delegation, as individuals should be held responsible for the tasks they are delegated. However, without providing opportunities for professional growth and development, delegation may not be as effective in achieving organizational goals.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Teaching the patient diaphragmatic breathing exercises for respiratory support would be the most appropriate intervention to address the symptoms of dyspnea and anxiety in this scenario. Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, focuses on engaging the diaphragm for deep, slow breaths, which can help improve lung expansion and ventilation. This technique can help the patient manage their breathing difficulty and reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving oxygen exchange in the lungs. It empowers the patient with a coping strategy they can use independently to alleviate distressing symptoms at any time. Administering oxygen therapy may be beneficial, but the priority is to teach the patient a technique they can use proactively and routinely. Prescribing benzodiazepines should be considered as an adjunct if non-pharmacological interventions are ineffective in managing anxiety. Referring to a pulmonologist may be necessary for comprehensive evaluation and treatment but may not directly address the immediate symptoms of dyspnea and anxiety.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Monitoring cardiac enzymes would be most helpful to Nurse Victor to confirm the underlying cause of cardiogenic shock. Cardiac enzymes are specific markers in the blood that indicate damage to the heart muscle, such as troponin and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB). When a patient experiences cardiogenic shock, there is usually damage to the heart muscle which leads to the release of these enzymes into the bloodstream. Monitoring cardiac enzymes can help confirm if the cause of cardiogenic shock is related to myocardial infarction or another cardiac issue. This information is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and management plan for the patient. Monitoring pulmonary artery pressure, mean arterial pressure, and central venous pressure may provide important hemodynamic information but may not directly confirm the underlying cause of cardiogenic shock.