A patient presents with chest pain that worsens with inspiration and is relieved by sitting forward. There is also evidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower extremity. Which cardiovascular disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The patient's presenting symptoms of chest pain worsened by inspiration and relieved by sitting forward, with associated DVT in the lower extremity, suggest a high likelihood of pulmonary embolism. Chest pain that worsens with inspiration due to pleuritic involvement is a classic symptom of pulmonary embolism. Additionally, the presence of DVT in the lower extremity represents a risk factor for the development of pulmonary embolism, as clots originating in the deep veins can travel to the pulmonary circulation to cause an obstruction. Patients with pulmonary embolism may also exhibit signs of right heart strain, such as tachycardia, tachypnea, and sometimes hemoptysis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a patient receiving palliative care for end-stage cancer experiences severe nausea and vomiting despite current antiemetic therapy, the palliative nurse should consider switching to a different antiemetic medication with a different mechanism of action. This approach is based on the concept of individual variability in response to medications, as well as the potential development of tolerance to a particular drug. Switching to a different antiemetic with a new mechanism of action can provide the patient with a fresh chance at better symptom control by targeting different receptors or pathways involved in nausea and vomiting. It is important to consult the healthcare team and consider the patient's overall condition and medication history before making any changes in the treatment plan.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In end-stage liver disease, pruritus (itching) can be a distressing symptom caused by the accumulation of bile salts in the skin due to impaired liver function. Cholestyramine and other bile acid sequestrants are the primary treatment for managing pruritus in these patients. These medications bind to the bile salts in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption and reducing the itching symptoms. Antihistamines may not be as effective for this type of pruritus since it is not histamine-mediated. Topical corticosteroids are generally not recommended for long-term use in liver disease due to the risk of systemic absorption and adverse effects. Avoiding hot showers or baths may provide some temporary relief but is not a definitive treatment. Therefore, prioritizing the prescription of cholestyramine or bile acid sequestrants would be the most appropriate intervention to address the severe pruritus in a patient with end-stage liver disease

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe form of acute lung injury that is characterized by hypoxemia, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. When managing a patient with ARDS in the ICU, the priority intervention is to provide adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Mechanical ventilation is often necessary to support gas exchange in these patients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary intervention that should be prioritized for managing a catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) associated with a central venous catheter is to remove the central venous catheter. CRBSI is a serious complication that can lead to severe infections and sepsis. The removal of the catheter is crucial to eliminate the source of the infection and prevent further dissemination of the pathogens into the bloodstream. Once the catheter is removed, the healthcare team can consider other interventions such as administering targeted antibiotics based on culture results, performing blood cultures to identify the causative organism, and implementing sterile dressing changes and catheter care protocols. However, immediate removal of the catheter takes precedence in managing CRBSI to prevent worsening of the infection and improve patient outcomes.