A patient presents with muscle weakness, fatigue, constipation, and hyperpigmentation of the skin. Laboratory tests reveal low serum cortisol levels and elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels. Which endocrine disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The symptoms described - muscle weakness, fatigue, constipation, hyperpigmentation of the skin, low serum cortisol levels, and elevated ACTH levels - are classic findings in Addison's disease. Addison's disease is a primary adrenal insufficiency characterized by the insufficient production of cortisol and, to some extent, aldosterone. The low cortisol levels result in symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and skin hyperpigmentation due to increased levels of ACTH stimulating melanin production. In contrast, in conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and diabetes mellitus, the symptoms and laboratory findings would not fully align with those described in the patient in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Post Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), the immediate danger that the nurse should anticipate is bleeding. TURP is a surgical procedure that involves removing portions of the prostate gland through the urethra. Due to the nature of the surgery and the rich blood supply to the prostate, bleeding is a common complication post-TURP. Excessive bleeding can lead to hypovolemic shock, which is a life-threatening condition. Therefore, monitoring for signs of bleeding, such as blood in the urine, drop in hematocrit levels, hypotension, tachycardia, and signs of hypovolemic shock, is crucial to prevent any serious complications. Proper assessment, monitoring, and timely intervention are essential in managing post-TURP bleeding and preventing adverse outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Using colored pictures can help make the presentation of the plan more visually engaging and easier to understand for the audience, in this case, the nurse's intended audience. Visual aids, such as colored pictures, can effectively convey complex information in a simplified and easy-to-digest manner. This approach can enhance comprehension and retention of the presented material, making the implementation of the plan more accessible and clear to the individuals involved.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a patient with chronic kidney disease presenting with metabolic acidosis, the compensatory mechanism the body is most likely to employ to normalize pH is increased bicarbonate reabsorption in the kidneys. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance by regulating bicarbonate levels in the blood. In metabolic acidosis, there is an excess of non-volatile acids in the body, leading to a decrease in blood pH. To compensate for this acidosis, the kidneys increase the reabsorption of filtered bicarbonate ions from the renal tubules back into the blood. This process helps to raise the bicarbonate levels in the blood, which in turn helps to neutralize excess hydrogen ions and restore the blood pH towards normal levels. Hyperventilation (A) is a compensatory mechanism for respiratory acidosis, not metabolic acidosis. Increased renal excretion of hydrogen ions (C) and decreased renal excretion of bicarbonate ions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Tiotropium (Spiriva) is an anticholinergic bronchodilator used for the management of COPD. A common side effect of anticholinergic medications is dry mouth. Rinsing the mouth with water after using the inhaler can help reduce the risk of developing oral thrush or other mouth infections due to dryness. This instruction helps promote good oral hygiene and decreases the potential side effects associated with tiotropium inhaler use. This teaching is important for patients to follow to ensure their overall health and well-being while using the medication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Records are IMPORTANT in health care as they serve as evidence of the health care services that have been provided to a patient. These records contain vital information such as the patient's medical history, diagnoses, treatments, medications, and test results. Keeping accurate and detailed records is crucial for monitoring a patient's progress, ensuring appropriate care is being provided, and serving as a reference point for healthcare providers involved in the patient's treatment. Additionally, health care records are essential for legal and insurance purposes, quality assessment, research, and continuity of care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most likely causative agent in this scenario is Plasmodium falciparum, which is the parasite that causes malaria. The symptoms of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia following a camping trip are highly suggestive of malaria, especially if the patient has thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. Plasmodium falciparum is known to cause severe malaria with complications such as thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. The other options, Trypanosoma cruzi, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leishmania donovani, do not typically present with all of the symptoms described and are not associated with the laboratory findings of thrombocytopenia and leukopenia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Option A, "Can we talk about Mrs. Santos?" is indicative of a collaborative relationship between the nurse and the attending physician. It shows open communication and a willingness to discuss the patient's case together, which is essential for optimal patient care. This statement implies teamwork and a shared responsibility for the patient's well-being. The other options either lack a collaborative tone, show concern without inviting discussion, or suggest a dismissive attitude towards addressing the patient's needs.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.