A patient presents to the emergency department following a motor vehicle crash and suffers a right femur fracture. The leg is stabilized in a full leg cast. Otherwise, the patient has no other major injuries, is in good health, and reports only moderate discomfort. Which is the most pertinent nursing diagnosis the nurse will include in the plan of care?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most pertinent nursing diagnosis for the patient with a right femur fracture stabilized in a full leg cast is "Acute pain" (Choice C). The rationale for this is as follows: 1. The patient is experiencing moderate discomfort due to the fracture and immobilization in the cast, indicating a need for pain management. 2. Acute pain is a priority in this situation as it can impact the patient's comfort, mobility, and overall recovery. 3. Managing pain effectively is crucial for promoting healing, preventing complications, and improving the patient's quality of life. 4. Posttrauma syndrome (Choice A) may be a consideration in the long term but is not the immediate priority. Constipation (Choice B) is not the most pertinent nursing diagnosis in this scenario. Anxiety (Choice D) may be present but addressing pain is more urgent and directly related to the patient's current condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Take zidovudine every 4 hours around the clock." Zidovudine is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV/AIDS. It is crucial for the client to adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule to maintain therapeutic blood levels. Taking the medication every 4 hours around the clock helps to ensure consistent levels in the body, maximizing its efficacy. Taking it with meals (choice A) or on an empty stomach (choice B) is not specifically indicated for zidovudine. Choice D is incorrect as taking OTC drugs without consulting a healthcare provider can lead to drug interactions or adverse effects. Hence, choice C is the most appropriate instruction to ensure the client benefits from the medication.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Acute pain. The patient's right femur fracture would likely cause significant pain. Treating the pain is a priority to ensure the patient's comfort and promote healing. Posttrauma syndrome (A) is more applicable for patients experiencing emotional distress following a traumatic event. Constipation (B) may be a concern due to immobility but is not as immediate as managing pain. Anxiety (D) may be present but addressing the acute pain would likely alleviate some anxiety as well.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Administer pain medication. The priority in this situation is to address the patient's pain and provide relief. Administering pain medication will help alleviate the discomfort and enable the patient to mobilize with crutches or a walker. Walking without pain is crucial for the patient's recovery. Explanation for other choices: A: Assisting the patient to walk with crutches may worsen the pain and should not be attempted until the pain is managed. B: Obtaining a walker is not the priority as the immediate concern is addressing the patient's pain. C: Consulting physical therapy may be beneficial in the long term, but immediate pain relief is the priority in this situation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Secure the cannula with tape. This is the last step in inserting an IV cannula to ensure it stays in place and prevents dislodgement or movement. Securing the cannula with tape helps maintain proper positioning and prevents accidental removal. Documenting the insertion site, date, and type of cannula used (B) is important but typically done earlier in the process. Assessing the site (C) should be done before securing the cannula to ensure proper placement. Placing a sterile dressing over the insertion site (D) is also important, but it usually comes before securing the cannula with tape to maintain a clean and sterile environment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Polyps. Polyps in the colon are precancerous growths that can develop into colorectal cancer over time. Identifying polyps during a medical history interview can raise suspicion for colorectal cancer due to their potential to progress into malignancy. Duodenal ulcer (A) is not directly related to colorectal cancer. Weight gain (B) is a non-specific symptom and does not specifically indicate colorectal cancer. Hemorrhoids (C) are common and usually benign, not directly linked to colorectal cancer.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Monitoring for signs of restlessness, sweating, and excessive weight loss during thyroid replacement therapy is essential in managing hyperthyroidism. Restlessness can indicate increased metabolic rate, sweating can be due to excessive heat production, and weight loss can be a sign of overactive thyroid function. Providing extra blankets (Choice A) may worsen symptoms of heat intolerance. Balancing activity and rest (Choice C) is important, but not specific to hyperthyroidism. Encouraging activity to prevent constipation (Choice D) is not directly related to managing hyperthyroidism.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it encourages the novice nurse to independently observe the situation with a peer, validate the data, and discuss afterward. This approach promotes reflection, peer learning, and validation of collected data, which are essential for learning and growth. It allows the nurse to self-assess and correct errors through discussion and feedback. Choice B is incorrect as it does not address the need for validation and peer feedback. Choice C is incorrect as repeating the same mistake without guidance does not promote learning. Choice D is incorrect as meeting with the nurse manager may not provide the same level of peer learning and validation as observing with a peer.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 2 and 5. Diminished breath sounds indicate possible atelectasis or pneumonia post-operatively, making coughing and deep breathing (2) and ambulation (5) crucial to prevent complications. Decreasing fluid intake (iv) can lead to dehydration, worsening the situation. Administering antibiotics (i) without further assessment may not be necessary at this point. Acetaminophen (iii) can help with fever but does not address the underlying respiratory issue.