A patient is brought by ambulance to the emergency department with multiple injuries received in an automobile accident. He is alert and cooperative, but his injuries are quite severe. How should the nurse proceed with the data collection?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. When a patient with severe injuries is brought to the emergency department, the nurse should prioritize performing a physical examination and initiating lifesaving measures while asking history questions simultaneously. This approach allows for immediate assessment and intervention to address any life-threatening conditions. Gathering history information while performing the examination ensures that critical details are not missed and helps in making timely decisions. Choosing option A could delay lifesaving interventions, while option C is not a priority during the initial assessment of a critically injured patient. Option D is incorrect as it prioritizes lifesaving measures over obtaining important history information during the initial assessment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct response is D because it encourages the mother to provide specific information about the toddler's behavior indicating pain. This helps the nurse assess the severity and nature of the earache accurately. Options A and C are dismissive and may overlook a potential health issue. Option B suggests immediate action without gathering information first, which may not be necessary.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chest pain. A symptom is a subjective indication of a condition experienced by the patient. Chest pain is a subjective sensation that a patient reports, making it a symptom. Clammy skin, serum potassium level, and temperature are all objective signs or measurements, not subjective experiences reported by the patient. Symptoms are what the patient feels or experiences, while signs are objective findings that can be measured or observed by healthcare providers.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: discuss how the patient's food choices may affect her health and that of her baby. This is the most appropriate response because it addresses the potential impact of the patient's current diet on her health and the health of her baby during pregnancy. By discussing the implications of her food choices, the nurse can educate the patient on the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet for a healthy pregnancy. This approach promotes awareness and empowers the patient to make informed decisions for her and her baby's well-being. Incorrect choices: A: This option does not provide guidance or education on improving the patient's diet, which is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. B: Focusing on weight gain rather than nutritional content may not address the underlying issue of poor dietary choices. C: Assuming the patient's ability to cook or go grocery shopping may not address the immediate need for dietary education and guidance.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Smoking increases the risk of complications during surgery." Smoking constricts blood vessels, reduces oxygen levels, and impairs the body's ability to heal. This can lead to increased risks of infections, delayed wound healing, and other complications during and after surgery. Choice B is vague and does not address the specific risks associated with smoking. Choice C is too general and does not emphasize the immediate risks related to surgery. Choice D implies a benefit after surgery rather than focusing on the risks associated with smoking before surgery.