A patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) develops acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) characterized by hypoxemia and bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. What intervention should the healthcare team prioritize to manage the patient's condition?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe form of acute lung injury that is characterized by hypoxemia, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. When managing a patient with ARDS in the ICU, the priority intervention is to provide adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Mechanical ventilation is often necessary to support gas exchange in these patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a patient with a suspected spinal injury is found unconscious, the priority action is to secure the airway without jeopardizing the cervical spine. A jaw thrust maneuver is the appropriate technique to open the airway in this situation because it allows for the maintenance of neutral alignment of the cervical spine while ensuring proper ventilation. Moving the patient to a flat surface or applying a cervical collar could potentially worsen the spinal injury if not done correctly, and checking for responsiveness should only be done after ensuring a patent airway. Therefore, the safest and most effective initial action is to perform a jaw thrust maneuver to establish a clear airway.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Persistent, severe abdominal pain, tenderness, and rigidity in a postpartum client can be indicative of serious conditions such as uterine rupture, hemorrhage, or infection, which require urgent medical attention. As a nurse, the priority action in this situation is to notify the healthcare provider immediately so that appropriate interventions can be initiated promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of the client. Administering analgesics or providing emotional support may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms and could potentially delay necessary medical treatment. Assisting the client to a comfortable position can be considered once the healthcare provider has been informed and appropriate assessments and interventions have been initiated.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Radical abdominal hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus, ovaries, ligaments (including round ligaments and uterosacral ligaments), and fallopian tubes. This extensive procedure is typically done for cases of invasive gynecologic cancers, most commonly cervical or ovarian cancer. The goal of radical hysterectomy is to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible to improve the chances of successful treatment and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Administering ice packs to the perineum is the priority nursing intervention to provide relief for perineal pain and discomfort in a postpartum client. Ice packs help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the perineal area, which can help alleviate pain. It is a safe and effective method to provide immediate relief and promote comfort for the client. Other interventions such as encouraging ambulation, administering analgesics, and recommending warm sitz baths can also be beneficial, but in the initial management of perineal pain, ice packs are the most appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's best response to a patient expressing fear of the unknown regarding an upcoming surgical procedure is to provide the patient with accurate information about the surgical procedure and what to expect. This approach empowers the patient with knowledge and helps alleviate anxiety by demystifying the unknown. By educating the patient about the procedure, potential risks, and postoperative care, the nurse can help the patient feel more prepared and in control of the situation. It is crucial for healthcare providers to address patient fears with compassion, understanding, and information to support the patient through the surgical process.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Acknowledging the patient's emotions and offering empathy and support is the most appropriate response in this situation. It is important for the nurse to show understanding and compassion towards the patient, especially when they are feeling emotional about a recent diagnosis. By acknowledging the patient's emotions, the nurse can create a supportive environment that facilitates open communication and helps the patient feel heard and valued. This approach can also help build trust between the patient and the nurse, leading to better outcomes in terms of patient care and overall well-being. Ignoring the patient's emotions, telling them to stop being emotional, or changing the subject may make the patient feel dismissed or isolated, which could negatively impact their mental and emotional state. Thus, offering empathy and support is key in helping the patient cope with their emotions and navigate through their diagnosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In an educational program conducted by a nurse, it is crucial to involve the patient, their family, and significant others. This approach ensures holistic care by considering the patient's psychosocial environment, family dynamics, and support system. Including these individuals in the educational program fosters collaboration, strengthens the patient-nurse relationship, and equips family members with the knowledge and skills needed to provide optimal care at home. Furthermore, involving the patient's support system can enhance adherence to treatment plans and contribute to better health outcomes. Therefore, the presence and cooperation of the patient, family, and significant others are essential elements of a successful educational program led by a nurse.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Choosing option C, asking the patient about their cultural beliefs and preferences related to pain, demonstrates cultural competence in pain assessment. Pain experiences can vary greatly across different cultures, and a patient's cultural background can influence how they perceive and express pain. By inquiring about the patient's cultural beliefs and preferences, the nurse can gain a better understanding of the patient's perspective on pain. This information is crucial for providing individualized and culturally sensitive pain management interventions. It also shows respect for the patient's unique cultural background and helps build a trusting and collaborative relationship between the nurse and the patient.