A nurse is caring for a comatose patient. What can happen to the feet if they are unsupported in the dorsiflexed position?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In caring for a comatose patient, it is crucial to understand the potential complications of improper positioning. The correct answer, D) plantar flexion and footdrop, is the most appropriate response in this scenario. When the feet are unsupported in a dorsiflexed position, the calf muscles can become tight and overpower the weaker muscles in the front of the lower leg, leading to the feet dropping into plantar flexion. This can result in footdrop, a condition where the patient is unable to dorsiflex their foot, causing difficulty in walking and an increased risk of falls. Option A) heel extension and pain is incorrect because unsupported feet in a dorsiflexed position would not lead to heel extension. Option B) toe contractures and numbness is incorrect as this is not a common consequence of unsupported feet in a dorsiflexed position. Option C) plantar extension and arch loss is also incorrect as it does not accurately describe the potential outcome of this positioning. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of proper positioning and care for immobile patients to prevent complications such as footdrop. Nurses and healthcare providers must be vigilant in ensuring proper body alignment and support to maintain the patient's physical well-being and prevent avoidable complications. Understanding the implications of improper positioning can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate nursing diagnosis is B) Deficient Fluid Volume. This choice is correct because the patient's symptoms of frequent watery stools (diarrhea), decreased skin turgor, and dark urine indicate dehydration due to fluid loss. Diarrhea leads to significant loss of fluids and electrolytes, which can result in decreased skin turgor and concentrated urine output. Option A) Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements, is incorrect because while prolonged diarrhea can lead to malnutrition, the immediate concern in this case is the patient's fluid volume status. Option C) Impaired Tissue Integrity is incorrect as the data provided do not directly suggest any issues with tissue integrity. Although prolonged dehydration can eventually affect tissue health, it is not the most immediate concern in this case. Option D) Impaired Urinary Elimination is also incorrect as the symptoms described do not point towards impaired urinary elimination. The dark urine is more likely a result of concentrated urine due to dehydration rather than an issue with urinary elimination. From an educational standpoint, it is crucial for nurses to be able to assess and prioritize nursing diagnoses based on the patient's presenting symptoms. Understanding the relationship between diarrhea, dehydration, and associated clinical manifestations like poor skin turgor and dark urine is essential in providing timely and appropriate care to patients with fluid volume deficits. Identifying and addressing deficient fluid volume promptly is vital to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Lack of, or incorrect signage. This option is the most likely potential health and safety hazard to the public due to the critical role that signage plays in providing important information, directions, warnings, and instructions to individuals in various environments. Incorrect signage, or the absence of signage, can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, and potential accidents. For example, in a healthcare setting, incorrect signage could lead to patients and visitors getting lost, delays in emergency response, or improper handling of hazardous materials. Option B) Loud noises in the vicinity may be a nuisance, but they are not necessarily a direct health and safety hazard to the public unless they reach harmful levels that can cause hearing damage. Option C) Areas that are fenced off are typically done for safety and security reasons, so they are not a hazard to the public if properly managed and indicated with appropriate signage. Option D) Lack of public conveniences can be inconvenient and uncomfortable for the public, but it does not pose an immediate health and safety hazard unless there are specific circumstances where access to public conveniences is critical for health reasons. In an educational context, understanding the importance of clear and accurate signage in various settings is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, visitors, and staff. This knowledge helps in preventing potential hazards, improving communication, and creating a safe environment for all individuals involved.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The main purpose of carrying out a risk assessment, as correctly identified in option A, is to meet legal requirements and protect workers. Risk assessments are crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in any work setting. By identifying potential risks and hazards, employers can take necessary measures to eliminate or minimize these risks, thus creating a safer environment for their employees. Option B, to follow procedures and care for the workforce, is not as comprehensive as option A. While caring for the workforce is important, the primary focus of a risk assessment is to identify and mitigate potential risks to ensure a safe working environment. Option C, to avoid fines for the employer, is not the main purpose of a risk assessment. While non-compliance with safety regulations can lead to fines, the primary goal of risk assessments is to protect workers, not to avoid financial penalties. Option D, to ensure records are maintained and reviewed, is also not the main purpose of a risk assessment. While record-keeping is an important aspect of risk management, the overarching goal of a risk assessment is to proactively identify and address potential hazards to prevent accidents and injuries. In an educational context, understanding the importance of risk assessments is crucial for students pursuing careers in healthcare, nursing, or any field where they may be responsible for the safety of others. By grasping the significance of risk assessments, students can develop a proactive mindset towards safety and contribute to creating and maintaining safe environments for themselves and others.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of basic care needs of patients, understanding statutory duties of employees is crucial for ensuring patient safety and quality care. The correct answer, option B, "Ensuring that equipment is used and maintained safely," aligns with statutory regulations that mandate employees to handle equipment in a safe manner to prevent harm to themselves and others. Option A, "Ensuring that equipment is available for regular use," though important for efficiency, does not directly address the safety aspect required by statutory duties. Option C, "Ensuring that colleagues are wearing adequate PPE," while essential for infection control, falls more under workplace policies and guidelines rather than statutory obligations. Option D, "Ensuring that colleagues take adequate breaks," is important for staff well-being but is not typically a statutory duty. Educationally, it is imperative for healthcare professionals to understand and adhere to statutory duties to maintain safe practices, protect patients, and comply with legal requirements. By selecting the correct answer, learners reinforce their understanding of the legal responsibilities that come with providing care, promoting a culture of safety and compliance in healthcare settings.