A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse should monitor for which of the following complications?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, hypercapnia. In COPD, impaired lung function leads to inadequate oxygen exchange, causing increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood (hypercapnia). This can result in respiratory acidosis and further exacerbate respiratory distress. Monitoring for hypercapnia is crucial in COPD management to prevent respiratory failure. Incorrect choices: A: Pulmonary embolism - While patients with COPD are at increased risk for blood clots, pulmonary embolism is not a direct complication of COPD. B: Pneumothorax - Although individuals with COPD may develop pneumothorax due to weakened lung tissue, it is not a common complication. D: Asthma attack - Asthma and COPD are distinct conditions with different pathophysiology. Asthma attacks are not a typical complication of COPD.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory failure. For a patient with chronic asthma, the priority complication to monitor for is respiratory failure as it can be life-threatening. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can lead to severe bronchoconstriction and impaired gas exchange, potentially resulting in respiratory failure. Monitoring for signs such as increased respiratory rate, use of accessory muscles, decreased oxygen saturation, and altered mental status is crucial. Pneumothorax (A) is a possible complication but less common in chronic asthma. Hyperglycemia (B) and chronic renal failure (D) are not directly related to asthma and are not the primary complications to monitor for in this case.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: Post-operative patients are at risk for developing pneumonia due to decreased lung expansion and secretion retention. Step 2: Deep breathing exercises help improve lung expansion and prevent pneumonia. Step 3: Therefore, encouraging the patient to perform deep breathing exercises is essential. Summary: - A: Avoiding deep breathing exercises is incorrect as it can lead to respiratory complications. - B: Taking shallow breaths can worsen lung function and increase the risk of pneumonia. - D: Limiting mobility can lead to complications like blood clots and pneumonia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encouraging regular foot inspections. This is the priority intervention because diabetic neuropathy can lead to decreased sensation in the feet, increasing the risk of injury or infection. Regular foot inspections can help detect any issues early and prevent complications. Incorrect choices: B: Providing additional protein to the diet - While nutrition is important for overall health, providing additional protein does not directly address the specific issue of diabetic neuropathy. C: Encouraging weight loss to reduce joint stress - Weight loss may be beneficial for overall health, but it is not the priority intervention for diabetic neuropathy. D: Administering pain medication for relief - Pain management is important, but addressing the root cause through regular foot inspections is more essential in preventing further complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Implementing physical therapy and exercises. This is crucial for managing chronic pain as it helps improve strength, flexibility, and overall function. Physical therapy can also address underlying issues contributing to pain. Choice A could worsen pain if not done appropriately. Choice B may be necessary but should not be the sole approach. Choice D can be beneficial but may not address the root cause of pain like physical therapy does.