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

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: 1. Increased sputum production is a sign of COPD exacerbation due to worsening inflammation and mucus production. 2. Decreased respiratory rate is not typical in COPD exacerbation as patients often experience increased respiratory effort. 3. Low blood pressure is not a common sign of COPD exacerbation and is more likely related to other conditions or medications. 4. High fever is not a typical sign of COPD exacerbation and could indicate an infection or other underlying issue.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: I will take my rescue inhaler only during an asthma attack. This statement indicates a need for further education because using a rescue inhaler only during an asthma attack is not the correct way to manage asthma. The purpose of a rescue inhaler is to provide quick relief during an asthma attack, but it should also be used as a preventive measure before exposure to known triggers or before exercise to prevent symptoms. Options B, C, and D all demonstrate good understanding of asthma management by indicating the importance of avoiding triggers, using the inhaler preventively, and carrying the inhaler at all times for emergency situations.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypertension. In end-stage renal disease, the kidneys are no longer able to regulate blood pressure effectively, leading to hypertension. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. Monitoring for hypertension is crucial in these patients. Rationale for why the other choices are incorrect: B: Hyperglycemia is more commonly associated with diabetes rather than end-stage renal disease. C: Hypothyroidism is a separate condition not directly related to end-stage renal disease. D: Hypokalemia may occur in some cases of renal disease, but hypertension is a more common and critical concern in end-stage renal disease.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. A blood pressure reading of 160/100 mm Hg is most concerning because it falls within the hypertensive crisis range, indicating severely elevated blood pressure that requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications like stroke or heart attack. Choices B, C, and D are within the prehypertension or mild hypertension ranges and are not as immediately concerning.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decrease intake of saturated fats. Saturated fats can raise cholesterol levels, leading to increased risk of heart disease and hypertension. Decreasing intake of saturated fats can help lower blood pressure. Incorrect choices: A: Increasing intake of foods high in sodium can worsen hypertension by increasing blood pressure. C: Increasing intake of processed foods often leads to higher sodium and saturated fat intake, worsening hypertension. D: Decreasing intake of fiber is not ideal as fiber helps in maintaining a healthy weight and managing blood pressure.