A patient presents with generalized weakness, headache, and difficulty concentrating. Laboratory tests reveal normocytic normochromic anemia, normal iron studies, and elevated serum erythropoietin levels. Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause these findings?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient in this scenario presents with normocytic normochromic anemia, normal iron studies, and elevated serum erythropoietin levels. These findings are characteristic of anemia of chronic disease, which is commonly seen in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In CKD, there is a decrease in renal production of erythropoietin, leading to reduced stimulation of erythropoiesis and subsequent anemia. The normocytic normochromic anemia pattern is typical in anemia of chronic disease, as opposed to microcytic hypochromic anemia seen in iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia. Aplastic anemia is characterized by pancytopenia, which is not described in the scenario. Therefore, the most likely cause of the patient's presentation is chronic kidney disease.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nurse Mae should utilize performance evaluations to ensure that the staff adheres to their job responsibilities. Performance evaluations are structured assessments that provide a holistic view of an employee's performance against established standards and job responsibilities. By conducting regular performance evaluations, Nurse Mae can objectively measure staff performance, identify areas of strengths and weaknesses, provide feedback for improvement, and set goals for professional development. This tool is essential for monitoring and managing staff performance effectively in a healthcare setting.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs are essential for the professional growth and development of nurses. CPD programs provide opportunities for nurses to enhance their knowledge, skills, and competencies, keeping them up-to-date with the latest advancements in healthcare. These programs may include workshops, conferences, seminars, online courses, and certifications that contribute to a nurse's professional development. By engaging in CPD programs, nurses can improve their clinical practice, critical thinking skills, and patient care, ultimately benefiting both the nurse and the patients they serve.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), communication difficulties may occur as the disease progresses and affects the muscles responsible for speech. It is crucial to initiate early measures to assist the patient in communicating effectively. Using pre-signals before the loss of speech can be helpful in maintaining communication with the patient. These pre-signals can include gestures, writing tools, communication boards, or technology-assisted communication devices. By introducing and practicing these pre-signals early on, the patient can adapt and utilize alternative communication methods before the loss of speech becomes more challenging. This proactive approach can significantly improve the patient's ability to communicate and maintain a sense of connection with others.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The Good Samaritan Law offers legal protection to individuals who voluntarily provide assistance at the scene of an emergency or accident. These laws vary by state, but generally, they grant immunity from civil liability for the individual providing aid as long as they act in good faith and without expectation of compensation. In this case, the retired nurse who stopped to help in the emergency at the scene of an accident would likely be covered by the Good Samaritan Law, protecting her from being sued by the injured party for any unintended consequences of her efforts to assist.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Deductive reasoning is a logical process in which conclusions are drawn from a set of premises or given information. In quantitative research, this type of reasoning is commonly used to test hypotheses and make predictions based on theories and existing knowledge. Researchers start with established theories or hypotheses and then collect data to either support or refute them. This structured approach aligns with the principles of deductive reasoning and is a key characteristic of quantitative research methodology.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can lead to urinary retention, which is a common complication associated with this condition. As the prostate gland enlarges, it can obstruct the flow of urine from the bladder through the urethra. This obstruction can result in difficulty starting to urinate, weak urine flow, frequent urination, incomplete bladder emptying, and eventually urinary retention. If left untreated, urinary retention can lead to serious complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder damage, kidney damage, and even kidney stones. Therefore, urinary retention is an important complication to be aware of in patients with BPH.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Refeeding syndrome is a potentially dangerous condition that can occur in malnourished individuals when nutrition is reintroduced too quickly. It is characterized by shifts in electrolytes, fluid imbalance, and metabolic abnormalities. Monitoring for decreased bowel sounds, nausea, bloating, and abdominal distention is the priority action to prevent complications associated with refeeding syndrome. These symptoms can indicate gastrointestinal issues such as ileus or overfeeding, which can lead to further complications. Early recognition and intervention can help prevent serious consequences of refeeding syndrome.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pain is best described as a subjective unpleasant experience because it is unique to each individual and is influenced by a variety of factors including emotional, psychological, and cultural elements. Pain cannot be objectively measured or quantified, and therefore it is considered a subjective experience that is reported by the person experiencing it. This is why pain is often assessed using self-report scales and tools to capture the individual's perception of their pain intensity and quality.