A graduate nurse should begin the job search knowing that:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because efforts to reduce healthcare expenditures do not necessarily impact the need for RNs, which remains stable. This is supported by the ongoing demand for nurses in various healthcare settings. Choice A is incorrect as the demand for RNs is generally high. Choice B is incorrect because job availability depends on various factors beyond just the location of the hospital. Choice D is incorrect as the need for nurses in acute care hospitals remains significant despite the shift towards outpatient and ambulatory settings.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the primary goal for a new graduate nurse in their first job is to successfully complete the orientation process. This is crucial for transitioning from the academic setting to the professional nursing environment. Completing orientation ensures that the nurse is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective patient care. Choice B is incorrect because scheduling interviews immediately after graduation may not allow the nurse enough time to prepare adequately for the interview process. Choice C is incorrect because while self-confidence is important, relying solely on past achievements of peers may not be a sustainable source of confidence in a new work environment. Choice D is incorrect because while work history and letters of recommendation can be valuable, they may not necessarily be the primary focus during the initial stages of a new nurse's career.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: planning. Setting goals in collaboration with other healthcare team members falls under the planning phase of the nursing process. During this phase, nurses work with the healthcare team to establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for patient care. This involves identifying priorities, outlining interventions, and determining the expected outcomes. Collaboration with the healthcare team ensures that goals are comprehensive and align with the overall care plan. Incorrect Choices: A: Assessment - Assessment involves collecting and analyzing data to identify the patient's needs and problems. Setting goals is not part of the assessment phase. C: Analysis - Analysis involves interpreting data and identifying patterns or relationships. Setting goals is more focused on planning and identifying interventions. D: Implementation - Implementation involves carrying out the planned interventions to achieve the established goals. Setting goals precedes the implementation phase.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Application. In this scenario, the nurse needs to apply knowledge of arterial blood gas results and assessment findings to determine appropriate actions. With the patient having abnormal ABG results and visible carotid artery pulsation, the nurse must recognize impending respiratory failure and act promptly, such as notifying the healthcare provider or respiratory therapist. This requires applying critical thinking skills to make decisions based on collected data. Incorrect choices: A: Knowledge - Choosing this option implies only recalling facts, which is not sufficient in this situation. B: Comprehension - This choice suggests understanding the information given, but it does not involve applying that understanding to make decisions. D: Analysis - While analysis involves breaking down information, the immediate action needed in this case is more about applying knowledge to prevent a potential crisis, rather than deeply analyzing the situation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer C: Irregular heartbeat is a significant symptom of hyperkalemia, which can be life-threatening. The nurse should evaluate capillary refill to assess perfusion. High potassium levels can affect cardiac function, leading to arrhythmias. Monitoring capillary refill provides insight into tissue perfusion, helping to assess the severity of the condition and guide appropriate interventions. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Drowsiness is not a typical symptom of hyperkalemia. Stimulating the patient every 30 minutes does not address the underlying issue. B: Confusion is not a common symptom of hyperkalemia. Asking the patient to state their name and birthdate does not address the cardiac implications of high potassium levels. D: Muscle cramps may occur with hyperkalemia but are not as critical as irregular heartbeat. Elevating the affected limb is not the priority in this situation.