A nurse is working with a dying client and his family. Which communication technique is most important to use?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Active listening. Active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said. In end-of-life care, it is crucial to provide emotional support and create a safe space for clients and their families to express their thoughts and feelings. Active listening helps the nurse to establish trust, show empathy, and validate the emotions of the clients and their families. Reflection (A), Clarification (B), and Interpretation (C) may be beneficial in certain situations, but in end-of-life care, active listening plays a pivotal role in fostering meaningful and supportive communication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Apply zinc oxide to the surrounding skin. This intervention helps create a protective barrier between the irritating drainage or wound compresses and the skin, thus preventing maceration. Zinc oxide has moisture-repelling properties that can help keep the skin dry and reduce the risk of maceration. Choice B (Using a binder) may not address the root cause of maceration and could potentially increase pressure on the wound site. Choice C (Supporting the arm and shoulder with pillows) may provide comfort but does not directly prevent maceration. Choice D (Instructing the client not to shave axillary hair) is unrelated to preventing maceration from irritating drainage or wound compresses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pink, frothy sputum. This is because pink, frothy sputum is a classic sign of pulmonary edema, indicating fluid in the lungs. Furosemide IV is a diuretic that helps remove excess fluid from the body, including the lungs. Resolving pink, frothy sputum indicates that the treatment is effectively reducing the fluid in the lungs. Incorrect choices: A: Pedal edema - This refers to swelling in the feet and ankles, which is not directly related to pulmonary edema. C: Jugular vein distention - This is a sign of heart failure, not specifically pulmonary edema. D: Bradycardia - This is a slow heart rate and not a direct indicator of pulmonary edema resolution.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: “I’ll take my medication in the morning, every morning.” This statement reflects understanding of the treatment regimen by indicating consistency in taking bumetanide for hypertension control. Taking the medication as prescribed is crucial for its effectiveness in managing blood pressure. Choice A is incorrect because sunbathing all day may not be advisable, especially if the patient is on medication. Choice B is incorrect as it implies no consideration for dietary restrictions that may be necessary with the medication. Choice D is incorrect as stopping medication once blood pressure decreases is not recommended and can lead to rebound hypertension.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because assessing the patient's pain level is the priority when caring for a patient with a brain tumor about to begin radiation treatments. Pain management is crucial in providing comfort and ensuring the patient's well-being during treatment. Teaching the patient about what to expect and addressing any pain promptly are essential steps in delivering effective care. Padding the side rails (choice A) is important for patient safety, but it is not the priority in this situation. Isolating the patient (choice D) is unnecessary unless there is a specific medical indication. Teaching the patient what to expect (choice B) is important but assessing and managing pain take precedence to ensure the patient's comfort and safety during treatment.