A nurse is teaching a patient with diabetes about self-management. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates proper understanding?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because monitoring blood glucose levels regularly is essential for managing diabetes effectively. By monitoring blood glucose levels, the patient can make informed decisions about medication, diet, and exercise. This helps in preventing complications and maintaining blood sugar levels within the target range. Choice B is incorrect because stopping insulin when blood sugar is within the normal range can lead to fluctuations and potential hyperglycemia. Choice C is a good practice but does not specifically address blood sugar management. Choice D is also important but does not encompass all aspects of diabetes management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Percuss the thorax bilaterally, noting any differences in percussion tones. This is the best action because it allows the nurse to assess for potential underlying issues such as pneumothorax or pleural effusion which could be causing the respiratory distress. Percussion can help identify abnormal air or fluid accumulation in the chest. Choice A is incorrect because simply counting respirations does not provide immediate information on the cause of distress. Choice C is incorrect as inspecting for masses and bleeding does not directly address the urgency of the situation. Choice D is incorrect as waiting for a chest x-ray would delay necessary interventions in a critical situation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Choice A is correct because using the inhaler at the onset of symptoms can help prevent the asthma attack from worsening. This early intervention can be crucial in managing asthma effectively. Waiting for symptoms to subside (Choice B) can be risky as it may delay necessary treatment. Using the inhaler preventively (Choice C) without symptoms is unnecessary and can lead to overuse. Not using the inhaler for mild symptoms (Choice D) can allow the condition to escalate. Thus, Choice A is the most appropriate response for managing an asthma attack effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Limiting sodium intake. This is crucial for a patient with hypertension as excess sodium can lead to increased blood pressure. Sodium intake should be limited to lower the risk of cardiovascular complications. B: Increasing potassium intake is beneficial, but not as critical as limiting sodium for hypertension management. C: Increasing fluid intake may or may not be necessary depending on the patient's condition, but it is not as crucial as limiting sodium for hypertension management. D: Consuming more caffeine can actually elevate blood pressure, so it is not recommended for patients with hypertension.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because monitoring blood glucose levels regularly is essential for managing diabetes effectively. By monitoring blood glucose levels, the patient can make informed decisions about medication, diet, and exercise. This helps in preventing complications and maintaining blood sugar levels within the target range. Choice B is incorrect because stopping insulin when blood sugar is within the normal range can lead to fluctuations and potential hyperglycemia. Choice C is a good practice but does not specifically address blood sugar management. Choice D is also important but does not encompass all aspects of diabetes management.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hyperglycemia. Patients with diabetes are at risk for high blood sugar levels, leading to hyperglycemia. This can result in various complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. The nurse should monitor the patient's blood glucose levels regularly to prevent these serious complications. Explanation for incorrect choices: A: Hypoglycemia - While hypoglycemia is a concern for diabetic patients, hyperglycemia is a more common and immediate risk. B: Hyperkalemia - While hyperkalemia can occur in some diabetic patients, hyperglycemia is a more common and primary concern. C: Hypotension - While diabetic patients can experience hypotension, hyperglycemia poses a more immediate threat to their health.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypothyroidism. In this case, the patient's symptoms of fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and slow heart rate are indicative of hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland is underactive, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism. These symptoms align with the typical clinical presentation of hypothyroidism. Other choices are incorrect because hyperthyroidism (choice A) would present with symptoms like weight loss, heat intolerance, and a fast heart rate. Cushing's syndrome (choice C) and Addison's disease (choice D) are both conditions related to the adrenal glands and would have different symptom presentations compared to what is described in the case scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Please point to articles in the room and parts of the body as I name them. This is the most important assessment for mental health in an aphasic patient post-stroke because it evaluates their comprehension, communication abilities, and cognitive function. Pointing to articles and body parts demonstrates understanding and ability to follow instructions, which are crucial aspects of mental health assessment in this context. A: Please count back from 100 by sevens - This choice involves memory and mathematical abilities, which may not accurately assess mental health in an aphasic patient. B: I will name three items and ask you to repeat them in a few minutes - This choice tests memory recall, which is not as relevant for assessing mental health in an aphasic patient post-stroke. D: What would you do if you found a stamped, addressed envelope on the sidewalk? - This choice assesses problem-solving skills, which may not be the most appropriate indicator of mental health in an aphasic patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. Regular blood glucose monitoring helps in understanding patterns and making informed decisions. 2. Adjusting insulin based on blood glucose levels is crucial for effective diabetes management. 3. This statement shows the patient's understanding of the need for personalized insulin adjustments. 4. It promotes self-management and proactive approach to blood sugar control. Summary: B: Stopping insulin abruptly can lead to dangerous complications. C: Skipping meals can disrupt blood sugar levels and is not recommended. D: Waiting for high blood sugar to use insulin can result in uncontrolled levels and complications.