A client with respiratory failure is receiving mechanical ventilation and continues to produce ABG results indicating respiratory acidosis. Which action should you expect to correct this problem?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the scenario of a client with respiratory failure experiencing respiratory acidosis while on mechanical ventilation, increasing the ventilator rate from 6 to 10 per minute is the correct action to take. Respiratory acidosis occurs when the lungs cannot remove enough carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in carbonic acid in the blood and a decrease in blood pH. By increasing the ventilator rate, you can enhance the removal of carbon dioxide, helping to correct the acidosis. Option B, decreasing the ventilator rate from 10 to 6 per minute, would further decrease the efficiency of carbon dioxide removal, exacerbating the respiratory acidosis. Option C, increasing the oxygen concentration from 30% to 40%, does not directly address the underlying cause of respiratory acidosis, which is inadequate carbon dioxide elimination. Option D, decreasing the oxygen concentration from 40% to 30%, also does not address the root cause of respiratory acidosis and may lead to hypoxemia without improving the acidosis. Understanding the principles of mechanical ventilation and the management of respiratory acidosis is crucial for nurses caring for patients with respiratory failure. Adjusting ventilator settings based on the patient's ABG results is a key aspect of providing effective respiratory care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the most helpful suggestion for Tom's midmorning hunger and lack of energy would be option A) As a midmorning snack drink a glass of apple juice and eat a pear. This option is the most appropriate because it provides a balanced combination of simple and complex carbohydrates from the apple juice and pear, which can help alleviate hunger and boost energy levels effectively. Option B) Drink only coffee with sugar for breakfast is incorrect as it only provides a temporary energy boost from caffeine and sugar, which may lead to a subsequent crash in energy levels. Option C) Eat a sweet roll midmorning is not ideal as it is high in refined sugars and lacks the necessary nutrients for sustained energy levels. Option D) Drink a glass of orange juice and eat three pieces of toast for breakfast may provide some initial energy due to the sugars in the orange juice, but lacks the fiber and protein needed for long-lasting energy. Educationally, it is important to understand the role of balanced nutrition in maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Teaching individuals about the importance of choosing snacks that combine carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats can help them make informed decisions to support their energy needs. Encouraging the consumption of whole foods like fruits and whole grains can provide sustained energy and prevent energy crashes compared to sugary or processed snacks.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology within medical-surgical nursing practice, it is crucial for nurses to understand the psychological aspects of patient care, especially during rehabilitation. The correct answer, option C, which is to listen to the patient's complaints and continue to encourage them, is essential for several reasons. Rehabilitation can be a challenging and discouraging process for patients, and their emotional well-being plays a significant role in their overall recovery. By listening to the patient's complaints, the nurse demonstrates empathy and validates the patient's feelings, which is crucial in building a therapeutic relationship and promoting trust. Continuing to encourage the patient shows support and helps them stay motivated to continue with the rehabilitation program. It empowers the patient to express their concerns and fears, allowing the nurse to address any barriers to progress effectively. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the emotional needs of the patient. Telling the family that the patient has not adjusted (option A) may undermine the patient's autonomy and confidentiality. Stopping the rehabilitative program until the patient is more optimistic (option B) can disrupt the continuity of care and delay progress. Ignoring the patient's complaints (option D) can lead to feelings of neglect and hinder the therapeutic relationship. Educationally, this question emphasizes the importance of holistic patient care in pharmacology. Nurses need to consider not only the pharmacological aspects of treatment but also the psychological and emotional well-being of the patient to facilitate optimal outcomes. Effective communication, empathy, and encouragement are essential skills for nurses to support patients through their rehabilitation journey.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology education for nursing practice, evaluating a teaching plan for a patient being discharged is crucial to ensure understanding and compliance. Option C, comparing learning outcomes with objectives, is the correct choice. This is important as it allows the nurse to assess whether the patient has met the intended goals of the teaching plan, ensuring effective education delivery. By comparing outcomes with objectives, the nurse can identify any gaps in knowledge and provide additional support if needed. Option A, documenting the plan, is essential but does not directly assess the effectiveness of the teaching. Reporting to the head nurse (option B) is necessary for communication but does not evaluate the patient's learning. Asking the family what the patient has learned (option D) may not accurately reflect the patient's understanding and could lead to misinformation. In an educational context, understanding how to evaluate teaching effectiveness is vital for nurses to ensure patients have the knowledge and skills needed for self-care post-discharge. By comparing learning outcomes with objectives, nurses can tailor their teaching strategies to meet individual patient needs effectively.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Atropine sulfate is commonly used as a preoperative medication primarily to control secretions in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract. This is because atropine is an anticholinergic medication that helps to dry up secretions by blocking the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors. Option A, increasing heart rate, is not the primary reason for giving atropine sulfate preoperatively. While atropine can increase heart rate by blocking the parasympathetic nervous system, this effect is not the primary indication for its use in this context. Option B, dilating pupils, is another potential effect of atropine due to its anticholinergic properties. However, pupil dilation is not the primary reason for administering atropine sulfate preoperatively. Option C, relaxing smooth muscle, is also a possible effect of atropine due to its anticholinergic properties. While this can be beneficial in certain situations, such as reducing spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, it is not the primary reason for giving atropine sulfate preoperatively. In the context of medical-surgical nursing, understanding the rationale behind the use of medications like atropine sulfate is crucial for providing safe and effective patient care. By controlling secretions with atropine, nurses can help prevent complications such as aspiration during anesthesia induction, making it a key component of preoperative medication administration.