A patient is prescribed a tricyclic antidepressant for the management of depression. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor closely in the patient?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are known to have anticholinergic effects, which can lead to various cardiovascular side effects, including orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, and potential hypertension. While hypotension is a possible adverse effect, hypertension is more commonly associated with TCAs. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to monitor the patient for signs of hypertension, such as elevated blood pressure readings, to prevent any adverse outcomes and ensure the patient's safety while on this medication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's priority action after noticing a sudden drop in blood pressure after administering anesthesia is to assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs). This is crucial to determine the immediate cause of the sudden drop in blood pressure and to ensure the patient's safety and stability. Assessment of the ABCs will help identify any potential airway obstruction, respiratory distress, or circulatory issues that may be contributing to the drop in blood pressure. Once the assessment is done, appropriate interventions can be initiated to stabilize the patient's condition. Administering vasopressors, documenting the blood pressure readings, and notifying the anesthesiologist are important actions but assessing the ABCs takes precedence in this situation to ensure the patient's immediate needs are addressed.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse's priority action when noticing a spill of bodily fluids on the floor while preparing the operating room for a surgical procedure is to clean up the spill using appropriate infection control measures. This is essential to prevent the spread of infections and ensure a safe surgical environment for both patients and healthcare providers. Cleaning up the spill promptly and properly reduces the risk of contamination and subsequent infections. Once the spill is cleaned up, the nurse can then proceed with documenting the spill, placing warning signs to alert others, and continuing with the preparation of the OR as planned. But the initial priority is to eliminate the immediate threat posed by the spill through proper cleaning and infection control measures.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Placing the patient on an alternating pressure mattress demonstrates evidence-based practice in pressure injury prevention. Alternating pressure mattresses are designed to change pressure points by alternating pressure across different parts of the body, reducing the risk of pressure injuries. Regularly turning and repositioning the patient (Choice B) is also important in preventing pressure injuries, but an alternating pressure mattress provides additional support and prevention measures. Applying moisturizing lotion (Choice A) and massaging bony prominences (Choice D) may be beneficial for skin care, but they are not proven strategies for pressure injury prevention.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Speaking up on behalf of the patient to ensure their needs are met is a key action that demonstrates advocacy by the nurse. Advocacy involves actively supporting and safeguarding the rights of the patient, ensuring that their best interests are being considered within the healthcare system. This may include advocating for appropriate treatment, services, resources, or respect for the patient's autonomy and decision-making. By speaking up for the patient, the nurse is acting as their voice and championing their well-being.