A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of substance abuse who requests pain medication. What ethical principle should guide the nurse's decision-making in this situation?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The ethical principle that should guide the nurse's decision-making in this situation is beneficence, which emphasizes the nurse's obligation to act in the best interest of the patient. In this scenario, the nurse must balance the patient's request for pain medication with considerations related to the patient's history of substance abuse. The nurse should prioritize providing effective pain relief for the patient while also considering the potential risks of administering medication to someone with a history of substance abuse. By focusing on beneficence, the nurse can make decisions that promote the well-being and best interests of the patient, taking into account both the immediate need for pain relief and the patient's history of substance abuse.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pneumothorax is a condition characterized by the presence of air in the pleural space surrounding the lungs, which can lead to lung collapse. The nurse's assessment findings in a patient with pneumothorax are typically as follows:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presentation of persistent, severe headache, visual disturbances, and epigastric pain in a postpartum client could indicate the development of postpartum preeclampsia or eclampsia, which are serious conditions that require immediate medical attention. Prompt notification of the healthcare provider is essential to ensure timely assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to prevent potential complications for both the mother and baby. Encouraging rest, providing acetaminophen, or offering a massage are not appropriate interventions for addressing these symptoms, as they do not address the underlying cause and urgency of the situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Educating the client about the "baby blues" phenomenon should be prioritized as it is a common occurrence that happens to many women after giving birth. The "baby blues" refer to feelings of sadness, irritability, and tearfulness that many new mothers experience due to hormonal changes and the stress of adjusting to motherhood. By understanding that these feelings are a normal part of the postpartum period and that they usually resolve on their own within a few weeks, the client may feel reassured and supported. Providing information and support can help the client cope with these emotions and reduce any anxiety or distress they may be feeling. If the client's emotional state does not improve or becomes more severe, further intervention such as referring to a mental health professional may be necessary. But initially, education and reassurance about the "baby blues" can be an effective nursing intervention to address the client's emotional well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate action for Nurse Pedrito to take at this time is to explore the reason for Mang Emilio's refusal to take his daily medication for hypertension. By understanding the underlying cause of his refusal, Nurse Pedrito can address any concerns or barriers that may be preventing Mang Emilio from adhering to his medication regimen. This approach emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care and communication in promoting medication compliance and overall health outcomes. Additionally, it allows Nurse Pedrito to work collaboratively with Mang Emilio to find a solution that meets his needs and preferences.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Late decelerations on the fetal monitor tracing indicate a potential uteroplacental insufficiency, which could be caused by decreased oxygen supply to the fetus. One common cause of late decelerations is uterine hyperstimulation due to excessive use of oxytocin. By discontinuing the oxytocin infusion, the nurse can help alleviate the stress on the fetus and decrease the likelihood of further late decelerations. This action should be prioritized before other interventions such as changing the mother's position or administering oxygen. Immediate delivery may be necessary if the fetus continues to show signs of distress despite discontinuing the oxytocin infusion.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Vocal cord nodules are benign growths on the vocal cords, typically caused by vocal abuse or misuse. The most appropriate intervention for managing vocal cord nodules is voice therapy and vocal hygiene education. Voice therapy aims to correct vocal habits and techniques that contribute to the formation of nodules, while vocal hygiene education focuses on maintaining vocal health through proper hydration, rest, and avoiding behaviors that strain the vocal cords. These interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing and eliminating vocal cord nodules without the need for surgical intervention. Surgery, such as vocal cord polypectomy or injection with corticosteroids, is typically reserved for cases that do not respond to conservative management or if there are significant complications. Partial laryngectomy is a more extensive surgical procedure that is not typically indicated for vocal cord nodules.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this situation, the best way to communicate Marlene's piece of advice would be to inform her about government agencies that provide financial assistance. This option provides a long-term solution for her financial difficulties rather than short-term fixes like asking relatives for help or paying in staggered amounts. By giving her information about available resources, you are empowering her to seek sustainable help for her financial situation. This approach focuses on addressing the root cause of her inability to pay the bill rather than temporary solutions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In Stage I of Hodgkin's disease, the most commonly seen early symptom is usually unexplained fever and night sweats. Other common symptoms at this stage may include unexplained weight loss, itching, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, underarms, or groin. Chest and back pains, subnormal body temperature, and swelling of extremities are not typically early indicators of Stage I Hodgkin's disease.