Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate bowel sounds. Auscultation should be performed before palpation during an abdominal assessment to avoid altering bowel sounds. Inspecting the abdomen is important but should follow auscultation. Percussion and palpation should be done after auscultation and inspection to ensure an accurate assessment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Increased heart rate is a common sign of fluid volume deficit (FVD) as the body compensates for decreased fluid levels. When a client is experiencing FVD, the body tries to maintain perfusion to vital organs by increasing the heart rate. This compensatory mechanism helps to improve cardiac output and maintain blood pressure. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because in FVD, hematocrit may be increased due to hemoconcentration, blood pressure tends to decrease as a compensatory response to FVD, and respiratory rate is usually unaffected or may increase due to attempts to maintain oxygenation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when administering medications through an NG tube is to dissolve each medication separately and flush with water between medications. This practice helps prevent interactions between medications and ensures that each medication is delivered effectively. Option A is incorrect as mixing all medications together can lead to chemical interactions or alter the effectiveness of the medications. Option B is incorrect because flushing the NG tube with air is not recommended and may cause harm. Option D is incorrect as administering all medications at the same time does not allow for proper absorption and interaction control.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Use sequential compression devices.' Sequential compression devices help prevent DVT by promoting venous return, reducing stasis in the veins, and preventing blood clot formation. Resting in bed for long periods (Choice A) can actually increase the risk of DVT due to decreased mobility. Avoiding leg exercises (Choice C) is also not recommended as mobilization and exercises can help prevent blood clots. Keeping legs crossed (Choice D) can impede blood flow and is not advisable in reducing the risk of DVT.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include to improve oxygenation for a client with COPD is to 'Use pursed-lip breathing during activities.' Pursed-lip breathing helps improve oxygenation by slowing down the respiratory rate, reducing the work of breathing, and keeping the airways open. This technique also helps prevent the collapse of small airways during exhalation, allowing for more complete emptying of the lungs. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because deep breathing exercises after meals, diaphragmatic breathing during exercise, and breathing in short, shallow breaths do not specifically target the improvement of oxygenation in individuals with COPD.