Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Respiratory failure. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can lead to respiratory failure if not managed properly. The nurse should monitor for signs of worsening asthma symptoms such as increased respiratory rate, accessory muscle use, and decreased oxygen saturation. Pneumonia (A) is a possible complication but is not directly related to asthma. Anemia (C) and Hyperglycemia (D) are not typically associated with asthma and would not be the primary complications to monitor for in this case.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Ask the patient to lie flat and breathe normally. This position allows for optimal lung expansion, making it easier to hear breath sounds accurately. Asking the patient to lie flat also provides a consistent baseline for comparison across different patients. A: Asking the patient to take deep breaths before auscultation may alter their normal breathing pattern and make it difficult to assess baseline lung sounds accurately. B: Having the patient sit upright can be helpful for certain assessments, but lying flat is preferred for auscultating lung sounds. C: Examining for symmetry is important but not directly related to the optimal position for auscultation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Respiratory failure. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can lead to respiratory failure if not managed properly. The nurse should monitor for signs of worsening asthma symptoms such as increased respiratory rate, accessory muscle use, and decreased oxygen saturation. Pneumonia (A) is a possible complication but is not directly related to asthma. Anemia (C) and Hyperglycemia (D) are not typically associated with asthma and would not be the primary complications to monitor for in this case.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because asking about future plans post-hospital discharge assesses judgment by evaluating the individual's ability to make considered decisions and anticipate consequences. Choice A focuses on paranoia, not judgment. Choice C assesses interpretation skills, not judgment. Choice D evaluates honesty or ethics, not judgment. Therefore, B is the best choice for assessing judgment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administering supplemental oxygen as needed. This is the priority intervention for a patient with COPD because it helps improve oxygenation and relieve respiratory distress, which is the main concern in COPD. Supplemental oxygen also helps reduce the workload on the heart and other organs. Encouraging physical activity (B) is important for overall health but may not be the priority in acute exacerbations. Administering antibiotics regularly (C) is not necessary unless there is a documented infection. Providing increased fluid intake (D) is important for maintaining hydration but is not the priority intervention in this case.