A patient presents with abdominal pain, fever, and peripheral blood smear showing fragmented red blood cells (schistocytes). Laboratory tests reveal elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), decreased haptoglobin, and increased indirect bilirubin. Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause these findings?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare blood disorder characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, fever, neurological abnormalities, and renal dysfunction. The peripheral blood smear in TTP typically shows fragmented red blood cells (schistocytes) due to mechanical destruction within small blood vessels. Laboratory findings in TTP commonly include elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), decreased haptoglobin (as it is consumed in the clearance of free hemoglobin), and increased indirect bilirubin due to increased red blood cell breakdown. This combination of clinical presentation and laboratory abnormalities is classic for TTP. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) may present similarly but is more commonly associated with renal dysfunction and is often triggered by infection with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability that becomes severe enough to interfere with daily life. It can affect memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Alzheimer's disease specifically is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually impairs the ability to carry out simple tasks. Therefore, the provided condition of having difficulty in processing stimuli and new information aligns with the symptoms commonly seen in individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Option D demonstrates an effective communication technique used by the unit manager because it focuses on discussing strategic approaches to improve the delivery of nursing services while also considering cost effectiveness for the consumers. By emphasizing the need for strategic planning and efficient service delivery, the manager is promoting a proactive and solution-oriented approach rather than simply stating potential negative outcomes or making abrupt decisions like in the other options. This approach fosters more open communication, collaboration, and problem-solving within the team, ultimately leading to better outcomes and team morale.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering a stool softener as ordered is the most appropriate nursing intervention for a postpartum client experiencing severe perineal pain and difficulty passing stools following a vaginal delivery. Stool softeners help to soften the stool, making it easier for the client to pass without straining, which can exacerbate perineal pain. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's orders when administering medications to ensure proper dosing and effectiveness. Encouraging the client to refrain from defecation may lead to constipation and worsen the situation. Applying ice packs to the perineum can provide temporary pain relief, but addressing the underlying issue of constipation with a stool softener is more effective in the long term. Providing education on proper perineal hygiene is important for overall postpartum care, but addressing the immediate issue of constipation with a stool softener takes precedence in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Acute appendicitis is the most likely cause of the symptoms described in the pregnant woman. The classic presentation of acute appendicitis includes fever, chills, abdominal pain localized to the right lower quadrant, rebound tenderness, and guarding. Pregnant women are at a slightly higher risk of developing appendicitis due to anatomic changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy, which can lead to an atypical presentation of symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial to prevent complications such as perforation, which can be detrimental for both the mother and the fetus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas," is a safe and effective pharmacological option for pain management during labor. Nitrous oxide is commonly used in labor and delivery settings as it has minimal effects on the baby and allows the woman to remain in control of her pain management. It provides quick pain relief when inhaled and can be adjusted to the woman's needs during labor. Ibuprofen, morphine, and diazepam are not typically used for pain management during labor due to their potential risks and side effects, especially for the baby.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Feces, urine, blood, and other body fluids are considered as vehicles of transmission in the context of communicable diseases. These substances can carry and transmit disease-causing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites from infected individuals to others. Through close contact or exposure to these contaminated body fluids, the pathogens can enter the body of another person and cause infection. Nurses like Nurse Keena must exercise caution and use appropriate infection control measures to prevent transmission of communicable diseases through these vehicles.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Periodontitis is the dental condition characterized by inflammation and destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gingiva (gums), periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. It is usually caused by untreated gingivitis, where plaque buildup along the gumline leads to bacterial infection and inflammation, resulting in destruction of the tissues that support the teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and other complications. Gingivitis, on the other hand, is inflammation of the gums without involvement of the supporting structures, while dental caries refer to tooth decay or cavities in the enamel. Dental abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should prioritize adjusting the irrigation flow rate based on the patient's urine output to prevent complications during continuous bladder irrigation (CBI). Proper adjustment of the irrigation flow rate helps maintain adequate bladder drainage while preventing bladder distention, clot formation, and potential irrigation fluid overload. Monitoring the patient's urine output and adjusting the flow rate accordingly ensures optimal functioning of the CBI system and enhances patient safety. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of complications and promotes effective postoperative care following urological surgery.