A patient is prescribed an antipsychotic medication for the management of schizophrenia. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor closely in the patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Antipsychotic medications, especially first-generation antipsychotics, can cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) as an adverse effect. EPS include symptoms such as muscle rigidity, tremors, akathisia (restlessness), and tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements of the face and body). These symptoms are due to the medications' effects on the dopamine system in the brain. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor the patient closely for EPS because they can be uncomfortable, distressing, and may impact the patient's quality of life and medication adherence. Early recognition and management of EPS are essential to prevent further complications and improve the patient's overall well-being.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most likely causative agent in this scenario is Plasmodium falciparum, a protozoan parasite that causes malaria. The patient's symptoms of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia align with the typical presentation of malaria. Additionally, the presence of intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination is characteristic of Plasmodium species, particularly P. falciparum, which causes the most severe form of malaria.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The clinical presentation of fever, malaise, maculopapular rash starting on the face and spreading to the trunk and extremities, along with leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, is highly suggestive of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) caused by Rickettsia rickettsii. RMSF is a tick-borne illness transmitted by the American dog tick, Rocky Mountain wood tick, and brown dog tick. The constellation of symptoms described aligns well with the typical presentation of RMSF. Borrelia burgdorferi causes Lyme disease, which presents with erythema migrans but does not typically cause leukopenia or thrombocytopenia. Plasmodium falciparum is the causative agent of severe malaria and would present with symptoms such as cyclic fevers, anemia, and jaundice but not the described rash distribution.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A nurse should wear sterile gloves and a surgical mask during a lumbar puncture procedure to maintain procedural asepsis. Sterile gloves help prevent contamination of the procedure site and reduce the risk of introducing microorganisms to the puncture site. Surgical masks help minimize the risk of respiratory secretions contaminating the sterile field, which is essential for maintaining asepsis during the procedure. Additionally, proper hand hygiene before and after the procedure is crucial in preventing the spread of infection.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Oxybutynin is a medication commonly used for the management of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms such as urinary urgency and frequency. It belongs to a class of medications known as anticholinergics, which work by relaxing the bladder muscles and reducing bladder spasms. By doing so, it helps to decrease the symptoms of OAB, including frequent urination, sudden urges to urinate, and leakage. Oxybutynin can be taken orally in tablet form, as a transdermal patch, or as a gel, providing various options for patients based on their preferences and needs. Overall, oxybutynin is an effective treatment option for individuals experiencing overactive bladder symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a pregnant woman presenting with severe abdominal pain, syncope, signs of hypovolemic shock, and gestational age of 6 weeks, the most likely cause is an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tube. As the pregnancy grows and the tube stretches, it can lead to rupture, causing severe abdominal pain, internal bleeding, and signs of shock. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and management. It is important to consider ectopic pregnancy in any pregnant woman presenting with abdominal pain and signs of shock, especially in the first trimester.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pneumothorax is a condition characterized by the presence of air in the pleural space surrounding the lungs, which can lead to lung collapse. The nurse's assessment findings in a patient with pneumothorax are typically as follows:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When the anesthesiologist visits a patient to explain the anesthesia for surgery, the most likely type of anesthesia to be ordered in this scenario would be general anesthesia. General anesthesia is a state of controlled unconsciousness where the patient is completely unaware and unresponsive during the procedure. This type of anesthesia is typically used for surgeries that are more complex, lengthy, or invasive, requiring the patient to be completely still and asleep throughout the operation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: To keep abreast with the latest trends in peri-operative nursing, Merle should employ a combination of attending training and seminars, performing researches, and pursuing graduate studies. Attending training and seminars will expose Merle to new information, techniques, and best practices in peri-operative nursing. Performing researches will help Merle stay updated with current developments and evidence-based practices in the field. Pursuing graduate studies will provide Merle with advanced knowledge and skills, allowing for a deeper understanding of peri-operative nursing concepts and practices. By incorporating all of these strategies, Merle can ensure that he remains knowledgeable and competent in his role as a peri-operative nurse.