A nurse is caring for a patient who has just undergone a mastectomy. Which of the following is the most appropriate intervention during the postoperative period?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encouraging the patient to express feelings of loss and grief. This is important because undergoing a mastectomy can evoke strong emotions such as loss and grief. By encouraging the patient to express these feelings, the nurse can provide emotional support and help the patient cope effectively. Choice B is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's emotional needs and may lead to suppression of emotions. Choice C is incorrect because discouraging questions hinders the patient's understanding and may cause anxiety. Choice D is incorrect as it invalidates the patient's emotions and may lead to feelings of inadequacy. Encouraging the patient to express feelings of loss and grief is crucial in promoting emotional healing and overall well-being during the postoperative period.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Administering antipsychotic medication as prescribed. This is the priority intervention because medication management is crucial in treating schizophrenia to help manage symptoms and prevent relapse. Providing a structured environment (A) and education about symptoms (D) are important but not as critical as ensuring the patient receives the necessary medication. Encouraging group therapy (B) can be beneficial, but medication management takes precedence in the initial treatment phase.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encouraging the patient to follow a balanced diet and monitor blood glucose levels regularly. This is the most appropriate intervention because managing diabetes requires a combination of healthy eating habits and monitoring blood sugar levels. By following a balanced diet, the patient can regulate their blood sugar levels effectively. Regular monitoring helps the patient understand how their diet and lifestyle choices impact their condition. Choice B is incorrect because taking medication only when feeling unwell does not address the need for consistent management of blood sugar levels. Choice C is incorrect as exercise is beneficial for managing diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels. Choice D is incorrect because managing diabetes is not just about symptom management but also prevention through lifestyle modifications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because deep breathing and muscle relaxation techniques are effective in managing acute panic attacks by activating the body's relaxation response. This helps decrease the physical symptoms of panic, such as rapid breathing and heart rate. Encouraging the patient to face their fear directly (A) may escalate the panic attack. Reassuring the patient that there is nothing to fear (C) may invalidate their feelings and not address the immediate distress. Providing distractions (D) may not address the root cause of the panic attack and could potentially worsen the situation by avoiding the emotions causing the panic.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assessing the patient for extrapyramidal symptoms. This is the priority nursing intervention because antipsychotic medications can cause these potentially serious side effects that require immediate attention. Extrapyramidal symptoms can include dystonia, akathisia, parkinsonism, and tardive dyskinesia. Regular assessment allows for prompt identification and intervention. Monitoring for weight gain (A), providing education on medication adherence (C), and reassuring the patient (D) are important aspects of care but assessing for extrapyramidal symptoms takes precedence due to the potential impact on the patient's safety and well-being.