A nurse is caring for a patient who has a history of myocardial infarction. The nurse should prioritize which of the following assessments?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blood pressure and heart rate. This is crucial in assessing the cardiac function of a patient with a history of myocardial infarction. Monitoring blood pressure and heart rate helps in evaluating cardiovascular status and detecting any potential complications. Abnormal values in these parameters can indicate inadequate perfusion to the heart or other organs, which can be life-threatening. Other choices are incorrect because: B: Temperature and respiratory rate are important assessments but not the priority for a patient with a history of myocardial infarction. C: Bowel sounds and abdominal girth are more relevant for gastrointestinal issues and not a priority in this scenario. D: Urine output and skin integrity are important assessments for overall health but do not directly relate to the cardiovascular status in a patient with a history of myocardial infarction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Quadriceps setting exercises. These exercises help prevent complications by strengthening the quadriceps muscles, which are crucial for knee stability and joint support post-surgery. They also aid in preventing muscle atrophy and promoting blood circulation. Leg lifts with weights (B) may strain the knee joint, leading to complications. Isometric muscle contractions (C) involve static muscle contractions and do not provide the necessary range of motion needed post-knee surgery. Active range-of-motion exercises (D) may be beneficial but should be performed after quadriceps setting exercises to avoid unnecessary strain on the knee joint.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, monitoring vital signs and fluid status, because it is crucial for assessing the patient's immediate post-operative condition and detecting any signs of complications like hemorrhage or shock. This step ensures early intervention if any issues arise, promoting patient safety and recovery. Administering pain medication (A) is important but not the top priority. Encouraging early ambulation (B) and providing wound care (D) are also essential but come after ensuring the patient's vital signs and fluid status are stable.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Serum creatinine levels. In patients with chronic kidney disease, monitoring serum creatinine levels is crucial because it reflects kidney function. An increase in creatinine levels indicates worsening kidney function. Hemoglobin levels (B) are important in assessing anemia, common in CKD, but not the priority. White blood cell count (C) and platelet count (D) may indicate infection or bleeding, respectively, but are not specific to kidney function in this context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing supplemental oxygen. In COPD, patients often have difficulty breathing due to impaired lung function. Supplemental oxygen helps improve oxygenation and relieves respiratory distress. Prioritizing this intervention is crucial for managing COPD exacerbations and preventing complications. Administering diuretics (A) may be indicated for comorbid conditions like heart failure but is not a priority in managing COPD. Increasing fluid intake (C) may not directly address the patient's respiratory distress. Encouraging bed rest (D) may lead to deconditioning and worsen respiratory function in COPD patients.