Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a patient with septic shock and refractory hypotension despite fluid resuscitation, the healthcare team should prioritize administering vasopressor medications to increase systemic vascular resistance. Vasopressors such as norepinephrine or vasopressin can be used to support blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs by constricting blood vessels and improving blood flow. By increasing systemic vascular resistance, vasopressors help to counteract the excessive vasodilation seen in septic shock and improve hemodynamic stability. It is crucial to address hypotension promptly in septic shock to prevent organ dysfunction and failure. Other interventions, such as fluid removal through continuous renal replacement therapy, assessing cardiac function with echocardiogram, or optimizing oxygen delivery through a transfusion of packed red blood cells, may be considered based on specific patient factors but do not address the primary issue of inadequate perf

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Methotrexate is a medication commonly used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It is known to have potential hepatotoxic effects, meaning it can harm the liver. Monitoring liver function tests (such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin levels) is essential to detect any liver damage early on during methotrexate therapy. By closely monitoring liver function tests, healthcare providers can assess the medication's impact on the liver and determine if any dose adjustments or discontinuation of the drug is necessary to prevent further liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function tests helps ensure the safe and effective use of methotrexate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When encountering patients who are stressed due to their health condition, the best way for a nurse to communicate is through empathizing. Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another person, which can help the nurse connect with the patient on an emotional level. Empathizing allows the nurse to show genuine care and concern for the patient's well-being, fostering a trusting and supportive relationship. This approach can help alleviate the patient's stress and make them feel understood and supported during a difficult time. Sympathizing and sharing may come across as insincere or minimize the patient's experiences, while listening is important but combining it with empathy enhances the overall communication experience.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Scabies is caused by an infestation of the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. This parasitic mite burrows into the upper layer of the skin, where it lays eggs and causes intense itching and skin irritation. The transmission of scabies usually occurs through close and prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infested person. Unlike viruses, bacteria, and fungi, which are microorganisms that can also cause skin infections, scabies specifically refers to an infestation by a parasitic mite.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The first step in the qualitative research process is typically conducting a review of existing literature on the topic of interest. This involves exploring existing research studies, theories, and findings related to the area being studied. By reviewing the literature, researchers can gain a better understanding of the current knowledge and identify gaps in the existing research that their study can address. This step helps researchers define the research question, refine the study design, and establish a strong theoretical framework for the study.