A nurse is caring for a patient who is undergoing treatment for cancer. Which of the following symptoms would most likely indicate the need for palliative care?

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: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because monitoring vital signs and fluid status is crucial in managing chronic heart failure. This intervention helps in assessing the patient's condition, detecting any signs of deterioration, and ensuring appropriate fluid balance. Administering diuretics (A) may be necessary but should be based on the patient's fluid status. Encouraging rest (B) is important, but monitoring vital signs takes precedence. Teaching about dietary changes (D) is essential, but ensuring the patient's immediate stability through monitoring is the priority.

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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Kidney function tests. In diabetic nephropathy, the kidneys are affected, leading to impaired kidney function. Monitoring kidney function tests such as serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate is crucial to assess the progression of the disease and guide treatment. Blood pressure measurement (B) is important in managing diabetic nephropathy but does not directly assess kidney function. Blood glucose levels (C) are essential in managing diabetes overall but do not specifically address nephropathy. Urine output monitoring (D) is important for assessing kidney function but does not provide as comprehensive information as kidney function tests.

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.