A patient is prescribed a benzodiazepine for the management of anxiety. Which instruction should the nurse include in patient education about benzodiazepine therapy?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Consuming alcohol while on benzodiazepine therapy can increase the central nervous system depressant effects of benzodiazepines, leading to excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and even overdose. It is important for patients to avoid alcohol to prevent these potential dangerous interactions and to ensure the safe and effective use of their medication.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a nurse notices a discrepancy between the surgical consent form and the planned procedure, it is essential to consult the surgeon for clarification. The surgeon is the primary decision-maker regarding the surgical procedure and can provide insight into why the discrepancy exists and how to proceed. It is crucial to ensure that everyone is on the same page before moving forward with the surgery to prevent errors, ensure patient safety, and maintain legal and ethical standards. Consulting the surgeon allows for the issue to be addressed promptly and for the appropriate steps to be taken to resolve the discrepancy before proceeding with the surgery.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should reposition the patient to alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas. Pressure injuries can develop when there is prolonged pressure on specific areas of the skin, leading to reduced blood flow and tissue damage. Repositioning the patient helps to relieve the pressure and prevent the development of pressure injuries. Applying a pressure-relieving device may also be helpful, but the immediate action should be to reposition the patient to address the issue. Documenting the observation is important for documentation purposes, but the priority is to take action to prevent harm to the patient. Continuing with the positioning as planned without addressing the inadequate skin protection could lead to the development of pressure injuries, which should be avoided.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: If the nurse notices that the patient's arms are not adequately padded while positioning for surgery, the nurse should immediately take action to prevent pressure injuries. Applying soft padding to the patient's arms will help distribute the pressure more evenly, reducing the risk of skin breakdown and potential harm to the patient during the surgical procedure. It is essential to prioritize the patient's safety and comfort in such situations. Simply proceeding with the positioning as planned could lead to complications, so addressing the inadequate padding promptly is the appropriate course of action.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The ethical principle of autonomy emphasizes respecting the patient's right to make their own decisions regarding their treatment. In this scenario, the patient has the right to refuse treatment, and the nurse should respect that decision while also providing information and guidance to help the patient make informed choices. By upholding the principle of autonomy, the nurse can support the patient's decision-making process and work collaboratively with them to address any concerns or barriers to compliance with the treatment regimen. This approach honors the patient's right to self-determination and promotes a trusting relationship between the nurse and the patient.