A patient is undergoing psoralen plus ultraviolet A light (PUVA) therapy for treatment of psoriasis. What action should the nurse take to prevent adverse effects from this procedure?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Have the patient use protective eyewear while receiving PUVA. This is crucial to protect the patient's eyes from potential damage caused by exposure to UV light during the treatment. Failure to wear protective eyewear can lead to serious eye complications such as cataracts or damage to the cornea. Shielding unaffected areas with lead-lined drapes (choice A) is not necessary as the focus should be on protecting the eyes. Applying petroleum jelly (choice B) may interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment. Cleansing the skin with antiseptic soap (choice C) is not directly related to preventing adverse effects from PUVA therapy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient being 5 ft, 2 in tall and weighing 180 lb indicates potential obesity, which can increase the risk for musculoskeletal problems. Excess weight puts strain on the bones and joints, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis. A: Taking a multivitamin daily is generally positive for overall health but does not directly indicate an increased risk for musculoskeletal problems. B: Disliking fruits and vegetables may point to potential nutritional deficiencies but does not directly indicate musculoskeletal issues. D: Preferring whole milk over nonfat milk may impact overall nutritional intake but is not directly linked to musculoskeletal problems. In summary, choice C is correct because obesity is a significant risk factor for musculoskeletal problems, while choices A, B, and D do not directly indicate an increased risk in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cloudy fluid. Cloudy fluid from knee arthrocentesis indicates the presence of infection or inflammation, which can be concerning for the nurse. This finding suggests the presence of pus, white blood cells, or microorganisms in the fluid, indicating a possible septic joint. Scant thin fluid (B) is not concerning as it may indicate a non-inflammatory condition. Pale yellow (C) and straw-colored (D) fluids are normal findings in arthrocentesis and do not raise concerns for infection or inflammation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ask the patient about abdominal discomfort. This is important because the patient with a hip spica cast may experience pressure on the abdomen, leading to potential abdominal discomfort or complications. It is crucial to monitor for signs of abdominal issues promptly. A: Avoid placing the patient in prone position - While this is generally a good practice to prevent pressure ulcers, it is not directly related to the specific concern of abdominal discomfort in this scenario. C: Discuss remaining on bed rest for several weeks - While bed rest may be necessary for a period, it is not directly addressing the potential issue of abdominal discomfort from the spica cast. D: Use the cast support bar to reposition the patient - While repositioning the patient is important, the primary concern in this situation is monitoring for abdominal discomfort, not repositioning the patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: how and when to cut the immobilizing wires. This is crucial information for the patient post-repair of a fractured mandible to ensure safe removal of the immobilizing wires as per the surgeon's instructions. Cutting them incorrectly can lead to complications or injury. A: Administration of nasogastric tube feedings is not directly related to the patient's mandible fracture repair. C: While high-fiber foods may be important for overall health, it is not specifically related to the immediate postoperative care of a fractured mandible. D: The use of sterile technique for dressing changes is important for wound care but is not directly related to the immobilizing wires for a fractured mandible.