A nurse is caring for a patient who has a history of hypertension and reports a new onset of headaches, nausea, and dizziness. The nurse should be most concerned about which of the following?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypertensive crisis. The nurse should be most concerned about this option because the patient has a history of hypertension and is experiencing new onset symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness, which could indicate a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure. This condition, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as stroke or heart attack. Summary: - B: Migraine headache is unlikely as the symptoms described are not typical of a migraine. - C: Benign positional vertigo is unlikely as it does not explain the presence of headaches and nausea. - D: Tension headache is less concerning compared to hypertensive crisis, given the patient's history of hypertension and the severity of symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A - Encouraging early ambulation Rationale: 1. Early ambulation helps prevent post-operative complications like blood clots and pneumonia. 2. Movement promotes circulation, aids in lung expansion, and prevents muscle atrophy. 3. It also supports bowel function and helps prevent constipation, a common post-operative issue. 4. Ambulation aids in overall recovery and reduces the risk of complications associated with prolonged immobility. Other Choices: B: Administering pain medication - Important for comfort but not the top priority for preventing complications. C: Providing wound care and dressing changes - Necessary for wound healing but not the immediate priority to prevent complications. D: Monitoring for signs of infection - Critical but not the primary intervention to prevent complications immediately post-op.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased wheezing and shortness of breath. During an asthma exacerbation, bronchial airways become inflamed and narrowed, leading to increased wheezing and shortness of breath. This is a classic sign of worsening asthma. Other choices are incorrect because: A) Decreased work of breathing is not expected in an asthma exacerbation as the patient usually struggles to breathe. C) Improved oxygen saturation is unlikely as airway obstruction can lead to decreased oxygen levels. D) Decreased sputum production is not a typical sign of asthma exacerbation; in fact, increased sputum production may occur due to airway inflammation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises helps to improve lung function and prevent complications in pneumonia. This intervention can help clear secretions, improve oxygenation, and prevent respiratory distress. Administering antibiotics (choice A) is important but not the priority for immediate patient care. Providing pain relief (choice C) is essential but addressing respiratory function is more critical. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels (choice D) is necessary, but promoting lung function through exercises takes precedence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. This statement indicates the need for further education because it suggests the patient plans to stop taking medication once blood pressure is normal, which can lead to hypertension returning. Monitoring blood pressure, taking medication as prescribed, and decreasing sodium intake are all appropriate actions for managing hypertension. Stopping medication abruptly can be dangerous and should only be done under a healthcare provider's guidance.