A nurse is caring for a patient who is post-operative following a hip replacement. The nurse should prioritize which of the following to prevent complications?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Encouraging early ambulation. Early ambulation helps prevent complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, and muscle weakness. It improves circulation, lung function, and overall recovery. Administering pain medication regularly (A) is important but not the top priority. Deep breathing exercises (B) are beneficial but not as crucial as early ambulation post-hip replacement. Monitoring for signs of infection (C) is essential but not the top priority for preventing complications in this case.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: all of the above. Alcohol use can impair judgment leading to risky sexual behaviors. Certain sexual practices like unprotected sex or having multiple partners increase STD risk. Oral contraception does not protect against STDs. Therefore, all factors (A, B, C) collectively increase the risk of STDs.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: unexplained vaginal bleeding. This is a contraindication for hormone replacement therapy as it may indicate underlying conditions that need to be addressed before starting hormone therapy to avoid potential risks. Vaginal bleeding could be a sign of endometrial hyperplasia or cancer, which can be exacerbated by hormone therapy. Choices A, B, and C are not contraindications for hormone replacement therapy. Family history of stroke may influence the choice of therapy but not necessarily contraindicate it. Ovaries removed before age 45 and frequent hot flashes/night sweats are common indications for hormone replacement therapy to alleviate symptoms of menopause.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyperkalemia. In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys are unable to effectively excrete potassium, leading to elevated levels in the blood. This can result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring for hyperkalemia is crucial in managing patients with kidney disease. Other choices are incorrect because: B: Hypoglycemia is not typically associated with chronic kidney disease. C: Hypotension may occur in kidney disease but is not directly related to decreased renal function. D: Hypercalcemia is not a common complication of decreased renal function; in fact, kidney disease can lead to low levels of calcium.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sedation. Cancer patients taking opioids commonly experience sedation due to the central nervous system depressant effects of opioids. Opioids can cause drowsiness, fatigue, and decreased alertness. Tolerance (A) is a possible issue but is not the most common complication. Addiction (C) is less common in cancer patients due to the nature of their pain management. Constipation (D) is a common side effect of opioids but is not the most common complication in cancer patients. Sedation is the most prevalent issue affecting the quality of life and daily functioning of cancer patients on opioids.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because palliative care aims to improve the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses like cancer. Severe pain and nausea (A) are common symptoms that palliative care helps manage. Uncontrolled symptoms despite treatment (B) indicate the need for specialized palliative care interventions. Psychosocial support needs (C) are also addressed in palliative care to address emotional and social aspects of the patient's well-being. Therefore, all of the above (D) are indicative of the need for palliative care as it focuses on holistic symptom management and support for the patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: hamburgers. Clients with hypercholesterolemia should decrease their intake of foods high in saturated fats, like hamburgers. Saturated fats can raise LDL cholesterol levels. Broiled catfish (A) is a lean protein option, wheat bread (C) is a good source of fiber, and fresh apples (D) are a healthy fruit choice. Hamburgers (B) typically contain high levels of saturated fats from red meat and processed ingredients, making them a less ideal choice for individuals with high cholesterol.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen is the most important action for a client with respiratory distress because it helps improve oxygen levels in the blood and supports breathing. Oxygen therapy can prevent hypoxia and reduce respiratory workload. Corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and analgesics may be beneficial in specific situations, but they are not the primary intervention for respiratory distress. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation, bronchodilators help open airways, and analgesics provide pain relief but do not directly address the underlying issue of inadequate oxygenation. Administering oxygen should always be the first priority in managing respiratory distress.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess the communication method preferred by the patient. This response is appropriate because it demonstrates person-centered care by respecting the patient's communication preferences. By assessing the patient's preferred communication method, the nurse can effectively communicate with the patient and provide the best care. Summary of other choices: B: Requesting a sign language interpreter may not be necessary if the patient does not use sign language. C: Using loud and exaggerated facial movements can be demeaning and ineffective in communication. D: Assuming all older adults have hearing deficits is a stereotype and may not be accurate for every individual.