A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of heart failure. The nurse should monitor for which of the following signs of fluid overload?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Swelling in the legs and shortness of breath. In heart failure, the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the body. Swelling in the legs (edema) is a classic sign of fluid overload as the fluid pools in the lower extremities. Shortness of breath occurs due to fluid accumulating in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. Weight loss and increased appetite (A) are not typical signs of fluid overload. Increased urine output and dehydration (B) are more indicative of fluid deficit. Nausea and vomiting (D) can occur in various conditions but are not specific to fluid overload in heart failure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "I can wear tight shoes to avoid blisters." Tight shoes can increase pressure on the feet, leading to blisters and worsening neuropathy symptoms. A: Inspecting feet daily is important to catch any issues early. C: Walking barefoot can increase the risk of injuries. D: Maintaining blood glucose levels within target range is crucial for managing diabetic neuropathy. In summary, the incorrect choices either provide important preventive measures or focus on key aspects of diabetes management, while the correct choice suggests a harmful behavior that can exacerbate neuropathy symptoms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Diagnostic reasoning. When formulating diagnostic statements, nurses use diagnostic reasoning to analyze data, identify patterns, and make accurate clinical judgments. This process involves critical thinking and synthesizing information to reach a conclusion. Physical assessment skills (C) are important in data collection but not the primary focus in formulating diagnostic statements. Rationale (A) refers to providing reasons or justifications and is not directly related to the diagnostic process. American Nurses Association recommendations (B) may guide nursing practice but are not specifically used in formulating diagnostic statements.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because HIPAA regulates the privacy and security of protected health information. This includes how healthcare providers, insurers, and other entities handle and safeguard patient information to ensure confidentiality. Choice A is incorrect as HIPAA does not dictate who provides client care. Choice C is incorrect as HIPAA focuses on the protection of health information, not how insurance information is obtained. Choice D is incorrect as HIPAA does not specify where a chart can be stored, but rather how the information within it is protected.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Head to toe. The head-to-toe assessment is efficient because it follows a systematic approach starting from the head and progressing downward, ensuring that all body parts are assessed while maintaining the patient's modesty. This approach allows the nurse to gather comprehensive data without compromising the patient's privacy. A: Body systems - While assessing by body systems is important, it may not provide the same level of modesty as the head-to-toe approach. B: Functional - Assessing by function focuses on specific body functions rather than a comprehensive assessment of all body systems. It may not address all aspects of the patient's health. C: Focused - A focused assessment targets specific health issues and may not cover all body systems comprehensively, potentially missing important findings.