A patient is brought to the emergency department experiencing a possible stroke. What initial diagnostic test for a stroke , usually performed in the emergency department would the nurse prepare the patient for?

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Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank Questions

Question 1 of 9

A patient is brought to the emergency department experiencing a possible stroke. What initial diagnostic test for a stroke , usually performed in the emergency department would the nurse prepare the patient for?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the emergency department setting, the initial diagnostic test typically performed for a patient suspected of having a stroke is a noncontrast computed tomography (CT) scan of the head. This imaging study is crucial in evaluating and diagnosing stroke because it can quickly identify whether the person is having a hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain) or an ischemic stroke (blood clot blocking a blood vessel). The results of the CT scan help guide immediate treatment decisions, such as administering clot-busting medications for ischemic strokes or preparing for surgical interventions for hemorrhagic strokes. Carotid ultrasound studies and transcranial Doppler flow studies may be performed after the initial CT scan to further assess the extent of damage and the underlying cause of the stroke. The 12-lead electrocardiogram is useful in assessing the heart's electrical activity but is not the primary test for diagnosing stroke.

Question 2 of 9

A patient presents with sudden-onset, painless vision loss in the right eye. Fundoscopic examination reveals a cherry-red spot at the macula and attenuated retinal vessels. Which of the following conditions is most likely responsible for this presentation?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient's presentation of sudden-onset, painless vision loss in the right eye, along with a cherry-red spot at the macula and attenuated retinal vessels, is classic for central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). In CRAO, there is a sudden blockage of the central retinal artery, leading to ischemia of the retina. The cherry-red spot represents the preserved choroid blood flow against the ischemic retina. The attenuated retinal vessels are a result of decreased blood flow in the retinal circulation. This condition is considered an ophthalmic emergency and requires immediate evaluation and management to prevent permanent vision loss.

Question 3 of 9

Nursing, as a human science, deals with the critical and fundamental differences in attitude toward their respective phenomena. Which of the following is an aim o: human sciences?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The aim of human sciences, including nursing as a human science, is to make meaningful interpretations of the phenomena being studied. Unlike natural sciences that may focus on prediction, control, or seeking causal explanations, the human sciences aim to understand and interpret human experiences, behaviors, and relationships in a meaningful way. In nursing, this involves not only understanding the biological aspects of health and illness but also considering the holistic and humanistic aspects of care, such as emotions, values, beliefs, and perceptions. By making meaningful interpretations, nurses can better understand their patients and provide individualized and patient-centered care.

Question 4 of 9

A postpartum client exhibits signs of wound infection, including erythema, warmth, and purulent drainage from a cesarean incision. Which nursing action is most appropriate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a postpartum client exhibits signs of wound infection, such as erythema, warmth, and purulent drainage from a cesarean incision, it is essential to notify the healthcare provider immediately. Wound infections can lead to serious complications if not promptly addressed. The healthcare provider will assess the infection, possibly order further diagnostic tests, and determine the appropriate course of treatment, which may include antibiotics or additional wound care measures. Applying a dressing or irrigating the wound may be part of the treatment plan prescribed by the healthcare provider, but the first step is always to seek guidance from the provider.

Question 5 of 9

A patient receiving palliative care for end-stage lung disease experiences dyspnea and anxiety. What intervention should the palliative nurse prioritize to address the patient's symptoms?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Teaching the patient diaphragmatic breathing exercises for respiratory support would be the most appropriate intervention to address the symptoms of dyspnea and anxiety in this scenario. Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, focuses on engaging the diaphragm for deep, slow breaths, which can help improve lung expansion and ventilation. This technique can help the patient manage their breathing difficulty and reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving oxygen exchange in the lungs. It empowers the patient with a coping strategy they can use independently to alleviate distressing symptoms at any time. Administering oxygen therapy may be beneficial, but the priority is to teach the patient a technique they can use proactively and routinely. Prescribing benzodiazepines should be considered as an adjunct if non-pharmacological interventions are ineffective in managing anxiety. Referring to a pulmonologist may be necessary for comprehensive evaluation and treatment but may not directly address the immediate symptoms of dyspnea and anxiety.

Question 6 of 9

As a nurse, which of the following are the critical factors for successful integration of loss during the grieving process?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Accurate assessment and intervention by the nurse or helping person are critical factors for successful integration of loss during the grieving process. This involves the nurse's ability to assess the patient's grieving process effectively, identify their needs, provide appropriate support, and intervene when necessary. By utilizing proper assessment techniques and offering timely interventions, the nurse helps facilitate the patient's journey through the grieving process, promoting healthy coping mechanisms and ultimately assisting in achieving successful integration of their loss. Trustworthiness and a healthy attitude about grief are important qualities for a nurse, but without accurate assessment and intervention, the grieving process may not progress smoothly.

Question 7 of 9

A pregnant woman presents with vaginal bleeding and crampy abdominal pain at 22 weeks gestation. On examination, the cervix is dilated, and the amniotic sac is visible at the cervical os. Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Incompetent cervix, also known as cervical insufficiency, is the most likely cause of the symptoms described. Incompetent cervix is a condition where the cervix begins to dilate and efface prematurely, typically in the second trimester, without contractions or labor. This can lead to painless cervical dilation and bulging of the amniotic sac into the vagina, which can cause vaginal bleeding and crampy abdominal pain. It is a leading cause of second-trimester pregnancy loss. Treatment may involve a cervical cerclage, a surgical procedure where the cervix is stitched closed to provide additional support.

Question 8 of 9

In Participative Action Research [PAR], which step will empower the community?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In Participative Action Research (PAR), the core idea is to empower the community by involving them in the research process. By actively engaging community members in all stages of the research, they gain a sense of ownership and are empowered to take action based on the research findings. This approach ensures that the solutions generated are relevant, sustainable, and community-driven. Therefore, participation and engagement of the community is the step that will empower the community in PAR, unlike the other options where the focus is on external individuals or entities.

Question 9 of 9

Clients who are taught a variety of skills such as measuring blood glucose, taking blood pressure, changing dressings, and bathing infants belong to which domain of learning?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Clients who are taught skills such as measuring blood glucose, taking blood pressure, changing dressings, and bathing infants are learning skills that involve physical movement and coordination. These activities require the integration of mental and physical skills, and they fall under the psychomotor domain of learning. In this domain, individuals develop physical skills and coordination through practice and repetition. The psychomotor domain is one of the three domains of learning, along with the cognitive domain (which involves knowledge and intellectual skills) and the affective domain (which involves emotions, values, and attitudes).

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