A nurse has taken a telephone order from a physician for an emergency medication. The dose of the medication is abnormally high. What should the nurse do next?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial for nurses to advocate for patient safety by questioning any medication orders that seem unusual or potentially harmful. In this scenario, the correct action for the nurse to take is to question the abnormally high dose ordered by the physician. By doing so, the nurse can prevent a medication error or potential harm to the patient. Administering the medication based on the order (Option A) without questioning could lead to serious consequences for the patient, as the high dose may be incorrect or unsafe. Refusing to administer the medication (Option C) outright may not be the most appropriate initial response, as it is important to clarify the order with the physician first. Documenting concerns about the order (Option D) is important for maintaining a record of the situation, but the immediate action should be to clarify the order with the prescribing physician to ensure patient safety. This question highlights the importance of critical thinking and advocacy in nursing practice, especially when it comes to medication administration. It emphasizes the nurse's role in ensuring safe and effective care for patients through proper communication and collaboration with other members of the healthcare team.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding hormones and their roles in the body is crucial for nurses. In this case, the correct answer is B) cortisol. Cortisol is known as the "stress hormone" because its levels increase in response to stress. It plays a vital role in the body's response to stress, regulating metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure. Option A) ADH, or antidiuretic hormone, is involved in regulating water balance in the body, particularly by controlling how much water is reabsorbed by the kidneys. While ADH can be affected by stress, it is not the primary hormone used as a physiological marker for stress. Option C) estrogen is a female sex hormone that plays a role in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system. While estrogen levels can fluctuate in response to stress, it is not the hormone typically used as a physiological marker for stress. Option D) aldactone is a medication that works as a potassium-sparing diuretic. It is not a hormone and is not used as a physiological marker for stress. Understanding the role of cortisol as a stress hormone is important for nurses as they assess and manage patients under stress. Recognizing the signs of stress and its impact on cortisol levels can help nurses provide holistic care and support to patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and nursing, effective communication between nurses and physicians is crucial, especially when caring for dying patients. The correct answer, option B) to advocate for the patient's wishes, is the most appropriate role for a nurse in this scenario. Advocating for the patient ensures that their wishes, values, and preferences are respected and upheld, even in end-of-life care situations. Nurses serve as the patient's voice and support system, facilitating open communication between the patient, family members, and the healthcare team. Option A) to carry out his or her orders, is incorrect because blindly following a physician's orders without considering the patient's wishes can compromise the quality of care provided. Nurses are responsible for ensuring that patient-centered care is delivered, which includes advocating for the patient's best interests. Option C) to suggest an appropriate course of action, is incorrect because while nurses can offer input and collaborate with the healthcare team, ultimately the decision-making authority lies with the physician. Nurses can provide valuable insights and perspectives, but the final decision should align with the patient's wishes and the physician's expertise. Option D) to make him or her see the situation correctly, is also incorrect as it implies a confrontational or authoritative approach which is not conducive to effective interprofessional communication. Nurses should focus on building collaborative relationships with physicians to ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient. In summary, advocating for the patient's wishes is the most appropriate role for a nurse when communicating with a physician caring for a dying patient. This approach promotes patient-centered care, respects the autonomy of the patient, and fosters a collaborative healthcare team dynamic in which all members work together towards the common goal of providing compassionate and holistic care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Looking at his or her own beliefs. This option is correct because an essential aspect of being able to effectively support a client's spirituality is for the nurse to first understand and be aware of their own beliefs, values, and biases. This self-awareness is crucial in providing non-judgmental and respectful care that honors the diverse spiritual beliefs of clients. Option B) Researching all popular religions is incorrect because while it is important for nurses to have a general understanding of various religions to provide culturally competent care, the foundational step should involve self-reflection and awareness of personal beliefs before delving into external research. Option C) Sharing his or her faith with the client is inappropriate as it can impose the nurse's beliefs on the client, potentially making them uncomfortable or feeling pressured to conform to the nurse's beliefs, which goes against the principles of client-centered care. Option D) Providing prayers and religious articles for clients is also incorrect as it assumes that all clients desire or adhere to a particular religious faith. This approach may not align with the client's beliefs and may infringe on their autonomy and right to spiritual self-determination. In an educational context, understanding the importance of self-awareness in spirituality is fundamental for nursing practice. By recognizing and examining their own beliefs, nurses can develop a deeper understanding and respect for the diverse spiritual beliefs of their clients, fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust and cultural sensitivity.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) help them maintain independence. In the context of chronic illnesses and disabilities, maintaining independence is crucial for individuals to have a sense of control over their lives and to promote their overall well-being. Activities that support independence, such as learning adaptive strategies, utilizing assistive devices, and engaging in self-care routines, empower individuals to manage their health conditions effectively. Option A) help them eat well is important for overall health, but it may not address all the needs of individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities. While nutrition is vital, focusing solely on eating well may neglect other aspects of their well-being. Option B) accomplish financial stability is essential for managing healthcare costs and daily living expenses, but it may not directly address the individual's physical and emotional needs associated with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Option C) preserve their social interactions is valuable for emotional support and mental well-being, but it may not directly contribute to promoting independence, which is critical for individuals to live their lives to the fullest despite their health challenges. In the field of nursing and healthcare, understanding the holistic needs of individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities is paramount. By prioritizing activities that help them maintain independence, nurses and caregivers can empower their patients to lead fulfilling lives and manage their health conditions with confidence and dignity.