Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is to apply warm compresses to the patient's lower abdomen. Abdominal bloating and an increase in abdominal girth can be common following a vaginal hysterectomy. Applying warm compresses to the lower abdomen can help to relieve bloating and discomfort by promoting relaxation of the abdominal muscles and increasing blood flow to the area. This can provide relief to the patient and support their recovery process. Applying warm compresses is a non-invasive intervention that can be easily implemented and is commonly used in post-operative care to address abdominal discomfort.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate action for a patient with H. pylori is to encourage completion of antibiotic therapy. H. pylori is a bacterium that causes peptic ulcers, and treatment involves a combination of antibiotics to eradicate the infection. Antibiotic therapy is crucial in eliminating the bacteria and preventing complications such as recurrent ulcers or stomach cancer. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize ensuring that the patient completes the prescribed course of antibiotics to effectively treat the H. pylori infection.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the patient who has had a cervical diskectomy is experiencing severe pain with a sudden onset, which can be indicative of a complication such as bleeding, infection, or nerve impingement. The nurse's most appropriate action is to call the surgeon immediately to report the patient's pain. The surgeon needs to be informed promptly so that a further assessment can be made and appropriate interventions can be initiated to address the cause of the sudden pain. Palpating the surgical site or removing the dressing without consulting the surgeon first may worsen the situation or increase the risk of complications. Administering an NSAID is not appropriate in this situation without further evaluation and guidance from the surgeon. It is essential to prioritize patient safety and ensure that the patient receives timely and appropriate care by involving the surgeon in the decision-making process.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Smoking cessation most directly addresses the leading cause of cancer deaths in North America, which is lung cancer. Tobacco use, particularly cigarette smoking, is the primary cause of lung cancer. By helping individuals quit smoking, the public health nurse is targeting the main risk factor for lung cancer and therefore addressing the root cause of the issue. This intervention has the potential to have a significant impact on reducing cancer-related deaths in the community. Monthly self-breast exams, annual colonoscopies, and monthly testicular exams are important for detecting breast, colon, and testicular cancers respectively, but they do not directly address the leading cause of cancer deaths in North America.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient undergoing interstitial implant for high-dose radiation (HDR) for prostate cancer will emit radiation that poses a risk to others. Limiting the time that visitors spend at the patient's bedside is essential to minimize their exposure to radiation. It is important to follow safety measures to protect both the patient and others from potential harm. Other options such as teaching the patient to perform basic care independently, assigning male nurses, or situating the patient in a shared room with other brachytherapy patients do not directly address the safety concern of radiation exposure to visitors.