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

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encouraging early ambulation. This is a priority intervention because early ambulation helps prevent complications such as blood clots and respiratory issues. It also promotes circulation and aids in the recovery process. Administering pain medication (B) is important but not the top priority. Providing wound care and dressing changes (C) is necessary but can be done after ensuring the patient's mobility. Monitoring for signs of infection (D) is also crucial, but promoting early ambulation takes precedence in this scenario to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Assessing serum creatinine levels and GFR is crucial in monitoring kidney function in CKD patients. These tests provide information on the kidney's ability to filter waste products from the blood. Monitoring these levels helps in determining the stage of CKD and adjusting treatment plans accordingly. Blood glucose levels (B) are important in diabetes management but not the priority in CKD. Hemoglobin levels (C) are important for anemia assessment in CKD but not as critical as kidney function. Potassium levels (D) are important to monitor in CKD, but assessing kidney function takes precedence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increase potassium intake. Potassium helps to lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. This dietary change is crucial for managing hypertension. Increasing sodium intake (choice A) is incorrect as it can lead to increased blood pressure. Increasing fiber intake (choice C) is beneficial for overall health but not specifically for hypertension. Increasing alcohol intake (choice D) is harmful and can worsen hypertension. Prioritizing increasing potassium intake is essential for effectively managing hypertension.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Shakiness and dizziness. Hypoglycemia is characterized by low blood sugar levels, leading to symptoms such as shakiness and dizziness. This is because the brain requires glucose for energy, and when levels drop too low, these symptoms can occur. Increased thirst and urination (A) are more indicative of hyperglycemia, where blood sugar levels are too high. Blurred vision and headaches (C) can be symptoms of both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia but are less specific to hypoglycemia. Fatigue and weight loss (D) are not typical symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Both B and C. After knee replacement surgery, patients are at risk for developing DVT and pulmonary embolism due to immobility and surgery-related factors. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs, which can lead to a pulmonary embolism if the clot travels to the lungs. Monitoring for both complications is crucial to prevent serious consequences. Option A, hyperglycemia, is not a common complication following knee replacement surgery and is not directly related to immobility or surgery. Option B, DVT, is correct but does not encompass the risk of pulmonary embolism. Option C, pulmonary embolism, is correct but does not cover the initial risk of DVT formation. Therefore, monitoring for both DVT and pulmonary embolism is essential in post-operative knee replacement patients.