A patient presents with fever, chills, headache, and myalgia after returning from a trip to sub-Saharan Africa. Laboratory tests reveal intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination. Which of the following is the most likely causative agent?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient's symptoms of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia after returning from sub-Saharan Africa are consistent with malaria. Intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites observed on blood smear examination are characteristic of Plasmodium species, particularly Plasmodium falciparum, which is the most common and deadliest species causing malaria in sub-Saharan Africa. Plasmodium falciparum can lead to severe complications, such as cerebral malaria, if not promptly treated. Trypanosoma cruzi causes Chagas disease, not malaria. Borrelia burgdorferi is responsible for Lyme disease, which typically presents with a different set of symptoms like erythema migrans rash. Leishmania donovani causes visceral leishmaniasis, not malaria.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should monitor serum potassium levels closely during ACE inhibitor therapy because ACE inhibitors can lead to an increase in serum potassium levels, known as hyperkalemia. ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which in turn decreases aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone normally acts in the kidneys to reabsorb sodium and water and excrete potassium. Therefore, when aldosterone secretion is decreased due to ACE inhibitor therapy, there can be an increase in potassium retention, potentially leading to hyperkalemia. Monitoring serum potassium levels is essential to prevent complications associated with hyperkalemia, such as cardiac arrhythmias.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In qualitative research, a focus group discussion is a technique where a group of participants are brought together to discuss specific topics in depth. In this case, Nurse Carmi's plan to gather 6 participants who are victims of domestic violence aligns well with the focus group discussion technique. By involving multiple participants who have experienced domestic violence, she can facilitate a dynamic conversation to gather rich data and insights. This approach allows for the exploration of diverse perspectives, experiences, and opinions within the group setting, providing a deeper understanding of the issue at hand. Additionally, focus group discussions can be more cost-effective and efficient than conducting individual interviews when working with a small group of participants. Therefore, conducting a focus group discussion would be an appropriate qualitative research technique for Nurse Carmi's plan to gather data from victims of domestic violence for her questionnaires.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a patient is at risk of falls due to an impaired gait, a physical therapist would be the most appropriate member of the multidisciplinary team for the nurse to collaborate with. Physical therapists specialize in improving mobility, balance, and coordination through exercises, gait training, and other interventions. They can assess the patient's gait pattern, strength, and balance, and develop a personalized plan to address the impairments contributing to the fall risk. By working closely with a physical therapist, the nurse can help the patient improve their gait and reduce the risk of falls, ultimately promoting safety and independence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary indicator that Nurse Mary observes FIDELITY in the practice of her profession is that she faithfully promotes health and prevents disease. Fidelity in nursing practice refers to being faithful, loyal, and committed to providing the best care and services to patients. By faithfully promoting health and preventing disease, Nurse Mary demonstrates her dedication to her profession, her patients, and the community she serves. This commitment includes following evidence-based practices, upholding ethical standards, being honest and trustworthy, and ensuring the well-being of those under her care. Ultimately, fidelity in nursing practice builds trust and confidence among patients, families, and colleagues, leading to better health outcomes and a stronger healthcare system.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should prioritize positioning the patient in a left lateral decubitus position during gastric lavage to ensure procedural effectiveness. This position helps to promote optimal drainage of fluid and gastric contents. Placing the patient in a left lateral position allows gravity to assist in the passage of fluid and prevents the risk of aspiration. It also helps to minimize the risk of complications such as reflux of lavage fluid into the respiratory tract. Proper positioning is essential in enhancing the success of the gastric lavage procedure and promoting patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common causative organism of bacterial pneumonia in adults. It is responsible for the majority of community-acquired pneumonia cases. Streptococcus pneumoniae is a gram-positive bacteria and is known to cause typical pneumonia characterized by sudden onset of high fever, productive cough with blood-tinged or rust-colored sputum, chest pain, and consolidation on chest imaging. Other organisms like Legionella pneumophila (choice A), Mycoplasma pneumoniae (choice C), and Haemophilus influenzae (choice D) can also cause pneumonia, but Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most likely culprit based on the patient's test results.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Antipsychotic medications can cause metabolic side effects, including hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Patients with bipolar disorder who are prescribed antipsychotic medications are at risk for developing new-onset diabetes or exacerbating preexisting diabetes. Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential to detect hyperglycemia early and prevent complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis. While hypertension, hypotension, and hypernatremia are possible side effects of certain medications, they are not typically associated with antipsychotic medications commonly used in the management of bipolar disorder. Hyperglycemia is a serious concern in this population due to the risk of developing diabetes or worsening of existing diabetes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Participating in professional organizations can provide Nurse Bea with numerous opportunities to network with other professionals in the field, stay updated with the latest trends and developments in nursing, access resources for professional growth, and even participate in leadership roles within the organization. Being active in a professional organization can help Nurse Bea build her professional profile, gain recognition, and open up possibilities for career advancement and opportunities for collaboration and learning from peers. It can also help her stay connected with the broader nursing community and enhance her visibility within the field. Engaging with a professional organization is a valuable way for Nurse Bea to enhance her career alongside pursuing further education.