A client in a clinic presents with an acute asthma exacerbation. Which of the following medications should reduce the symptoms?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Albuterol via a jet nebulizer. Albuterol is a short-acting beta agonist that works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, helping to open them up and improve airflow. When administered via a nebulizer, it provides quick relief during an acute asthma exacerbation by directly targeting the airways. Cromolyn (A) is a mast cell stabilizer that is used for preventing asthma symptoms, not for acute exacerbations. Montelukast (B) is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that is used for maintenance therapy, not for immediate relief. Budesonide (C) is an inhaled corticosteroid used for long-term control of asthma, not for acute symptom relief.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ciprofloxacin. Anthrax is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, and ciprofloxacin is the recommended antibiotic for treating anthrax due to its effectiveness against this specific bacterium. Ciprofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA replication, thus stopping the growth and spread of the anthrax bacteria. The other choices are incorrect because: B: Fluconazole is an antifungal medication and is not effective against bacterial infections like anthrax. C: Tobramycin is an antibiotic primarily used to treat bacterial infections in the eyes, ears, and skin, but it is not the first-line treatment for anthrax. D: Vancomycin is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, but it is not the preferred choice for anthrax treatment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Oxygen saturation. The priority assessment after a cholecystectomy is monitoring the client's oxygen saturation to ensure adequate oxygenation post-surgery. Decreased oxygen saturation can indicate respiratory distress, which requires immediate intervention. Bowel sounds (A) are important but not the priority post-cholecystectomy. Surgical dressing (B) should be assessed, but it is not as critical as monitoring oxygen saturation. Temperature (C) is also important, but ensuring oxygenation takes precedence in the immediate postoperative period.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take first is to prevent the client from aspirating. Aspiration is a serious risk when a client is vomiting as it can lead to respiratory complications. The nurse should position the client on their side to prevent aspiration of vomitus into the airway. This immediate action takes priority over providing an emesis basin, notifying housekeeping, or administering an antiemetic, which do not address the urgent need to prevent aspiration.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Brush the client's teeth with a suction toothbrush every 12 hours. This is crucial in reducing the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia as it helps prevent the buildup of bacteria in the oral cavity, which can be aspirated into the lungs. Brushing the teeth regularly maintains oral hygiene, decreasing the chances of infection. A: Positioning the head of the client's bed flat can increase the risk of aspiration and pneumonia. B: Turning the client every 4 hours is important for preventing pressure ulcers but does not directly reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia. D: Providing humidity within the ventilator tubing is important for preventing mucous plugs but does not directly address oral hygiene, which is key in preventing pneumonia.