A patient has been experiencing diarrhea for the past week. What should the nurse do first when caring for this patient?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The first action that the nurse should take when caring for a patient experiencing diarrhea is to ask the patient to describe the number and character of daily stools. This assessment is crucial in determining the severity and possible cause of the diarrhea. By understanding the frequency and consistency of the stools, the nurse can evaluate if the diarrhea is due to an infection, a reaction to medications, dietary factors, or other underlying health issues. Based on this assessment, appropriate interventions can then be implemented, which may include further diagnostic tests, fluid replacement therapy, dietary modifications, or medication administration. It is essential to gather this information first before considering other interventions such as abstaining from oral intake or using over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Anticoagulant therapy, specifically heparin, is commonly used as the initial treatment for pulmonary embolism (PE) because it inhibits the formation of additional clots by altering the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Heparin works quickly and can be administered intravenously to rapidly prevent the clot from growing in size. Warfarin, another anticoagulant, is generally started after heparin therapy is initiated to provide long-term anticoagulation. Major hemorrhage is a potential side effect of anticoagulant therapy, but it is not considered common. The initiation of heparin and warfarin (Coumadin) at the same time is not standard practice due to the differing mechanisms of action and monitoring required for each medication. Anticoagulant therapy is considered first-line treatment for PE, not second-line.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should ask the patient if she completed the antibiotic prescribed for the first urinary tract infection because it is important to determine if the initial infection was fully treated. If the antibiotic course was not completed as prescribed, it could lead to a recurrence of the infection due to incomplete eradication of the bacteria. Additionally, incomplete treatment can lead to antibiotic resistance, making it harder to treat future infections. Understanding if the patient followed through with the prescribed treatment is crucial in assessing the current situation and planning appropriate interventions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a significant risk factor for the development of cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is a condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened or enlarged, affecting its ability to pump blood effectively. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to chronic stress on the heart muscle, ultimately causing cardiomyopathy. The client's reluctance to take medication for high blood pressure puts them at an increased risk of developing cardiomyopathy due to the continued strain on the heart over time. It is essential for the client to understand the potential consequences of uncontrolled hypertension and to work with healthcare providers to find a suitable treatment plan to manage their blood pressure effectively and prevent the development of cardiomyopathy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: While it is positive that the client has taken the initiative to research the procedure online, it is essential for the nurse to assess the client's actual understanding and ability to perform the fingerstick blood sugar analysis correctly. The best course of action would be for the nurse to watch the client perform a return demonstration of the skill. This will allow the nurse to provide real-time feedback, correct any errors, and ensure that the client is performing the procedure accurately and safely. Watching a return demonstration is a critical step in the client's learning process, as it confirms their comprehension and ability to apply the information effectively. It also enables the nurse to address any misconceptions or gaps in knowledge that may not have been evident from the client's statement alone.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), the client is experiencing joint pain due to the formation of microthrombi which can lead to ischemia and inflammation within the joints. Heat application is appropriate as it can help improve circulation, reduce pain, and promote relaxation of the joints. Heat helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can aid in reducing pain and stiffness in the joints. Additionally, heat can also help to soothe the inflamed tissues and promote comfort for the client. Splints, cool compresses, and ice are not appropriate interventions for joint pain in DIC and may not provide the same level of relief as heat therapy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In older adults, particularly those over 65 years of age, atypical symptoms of a myocardial infarction may occur. Abdominal pain is considered an atypical age-related warning sign because older adults may present with subtle or nonspecific symptoms, such as discomfort or pain in the abdomen, rather than the classic chest pain associated with a heart attack. This atypical presentation can lead to delays in seeking medical attention and diagnosis, which can have serious consequences for the client. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to educate older clients about the possibility of experiencing atypical symptoms, such as abdominal pain, in the context of a myocardial infarction.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: An epiphyseal fracture involves the distal or proximal epiphysis of a long bone, such as the femur, tibia, or humerus. Long bones are characterized by having a long shaft with distinct ends (epiphyses). The epiphysis is the site of bone growth and plays a crucial role in bone development. Therefore, understanding the classification of the bone as long helps the nurse in providing appropriate care for the patient with an epiphyseal fracture, such as monitoring growth plate involvement and ensuring proper immobilization for healing.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A. Take the medication as directed with clear water only: Alendronate should be taken with a full glass of plain water on an empty stomach in the morning at least 30 minutes before consuming any food, drink, or other medications. Avoid taking it with any other liquids besides plain water, as other beverages can interfere with the absorption of the drug.