A nurse is caring for a patient who is post-operative following a cesarean section. The nurse should prioritize which of the following interventions?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitoring for signs of hemorrhage. This is the priority intervention because post-cesarean section hemorrhage is a life-threatening complication that requires immediate attention. The nurse should monitor the patient's vital signs, uterine firmness, and amount of vaginal bleeding to detect any signs of hemorrhage and take prompt action if necessary. Option A is incorrect because pain management is important but not the priority in this situation. Option B is also incorrect as breastfeeding can be encouraged after the patient's condition is stable. Option D is not the priority as preventing deep vein thrombosis is important but not as urgent as monitoring for hemorrhage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administering antihypertensive medication as prescribed. This is the priority intervention because it directly addresses the patient's hypertension, which is a critical condition that needs immediate management to prevent complications. Encouraging weight loss (B), monitoring blood pressure (C), and promoting a low-sodium diet (D) are all important aspects of managing hypertension. However, administering antihypertensive medication takes precedence as it directly targets lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. Weight loss, monitoring, and dietary changes are important for long-term management but may not provide immediate control of hypertension compared to medication.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Increasing salt intake. Salt intake can worsen hypertension by causing water retention and increasing blood pressure. Limiting caffeine intake (A) and increasing physical activity (D) are beneficial for managing hypertension. Consuming more fruits and vegetables (B) is also recommended as they are part of a healthy diet that can help lower blood pressure. Overall, educating the patient to avoid increasing salt intake is crucial in managing hypertension effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "I should smoke to relieve stress and manage symptoms." This statement indicates a need for further education because smoking can worsen asthma symptoms. Here's the rationale: 1. Smoking is a common trigger for asthma exacerbations due to irritants in tobacco smoke. 2. Smoking can lead to airway inflammation and constriction, making asthma symptoms more severe. 3. Asthma management involves avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke exposure. 4. Choices A, B, and D are correct as they align with asthma management guidelines to avoid triggers and use inhalers as prescribed.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Respiratory failure. Patients with COPD are at risk for respiratory failure due to impaired gas exchange and respiratory muscle weakness. This can lead to hypoxia and hypercapnia. Monitoring for signs such as increased work of breathing, decreased oxygen saturation, and altered mental status is crucial. Hypoglycemia (A) is not a common complication of COPD. Hyperkalemia (C) is less likely to occur in COPD unless the patient is on medications that can cause elevated potassium levels. Anemia (D) may be present in COPD due to chronic inflammation, but it is not a direct complication that requires monitoring for signs of respiratory failure.