A patient presents with watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea after consuming contaminated water from a stream during a camping trip. Laboratory tests reveal oocysts in the stool sample. Which of the following parasites is most likely responsible for this infection?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The patient is likely infected with Cryptosporidium parvum based on the symptoms of watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea after consuming contaminated water. Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite that can be transmitted through contaminated water sources, such as streams. Laboratory tests revealing oocysts in the stool sample further support the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium infection, as these oocysts are characteristic of this parasite. Giardia lamblia is another common protozoan parasite that can cause similar symptoms but is usually associated with more foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea. Entamoeba histolytica causes amoebic dysentery, which presents with bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Cyclospora cayetanensis also causes watery diarrhea, but it is usually associated with foodborne outbreaks rather than waterborne transmission.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In qualitative research, the focus is on exploring a phenomenon in-depth, understanding experiences, perceptions, and meanings. Unlike quantitative research, qualitative research does not typically start with a hypothesis to be tested. Instead, qualitative studies often use open-ended questions and flexible methods to gather rich, detailed data that can lead to new insights and theories. The other options - sample, literature review, and data collection - are essential components of the qualitative research process.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The bio-ethical principle of veracity pertains to honesty and truthfulness in healthcare communication. By providing fraudulent information about the patient's diagnosis and prognosis, the nurse would be violating the principle of veracity. It is crucial for healthcare providers to be honest and provide accurate information to patients in order to ensure informed decision-making and uphold the trust between healthcare professionals and their patients. Misleading a patient about their diagnosis and prognosis can have serious consequences on the patient's understanding of their condition, treatment decisions, and overall well-being. Therefore, maintaining honesty and truthfulness is essential in promoting ethical healthcare practices.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by increased glomerular permeability, leading to protein loss in the urine. One of the hallmarks of nephrotic syndrome is hypoalbuminemia, which refers to low levels of albumin in the blood due to its excessive loss in the urine. This loss of albumin results in decreased oncotic pressure, leading to edema and ascites. Hematuria (choice A) is not typically found in nephrotic syndrome but may be present in other kidney conditions. Hyperkalemia (choice C) is not specific to nephrotic syndrome and may be more common in conditions affecting potassium regulation. Hypocalcemia (choice D) is also not a characteristic feature of nephrotic syndrome.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Malpractice is a type of tort that involves professional negligence or misconduct by a professional such as a nurse that results in harm to a patient. In this scenario, failing to obtain informed consent before performing a procedure is considered a breach of the standard of care expected from a healthcare professional, which falls under malpractice. This failure to obtain informed consent deprives the patient of the right to make an informed decision about their treatment and can lead to legal consequences for the nurse.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Activating emergency medical services (EMS) for rapid transport to a stroke center is the most appropriate action for managing a conscious patient with a suspected stroke. Time is critical in stroke care, and receiving specialized treatment at a stroke center as soon as possible can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients. EMS providers are trained to recognize the signs of stroke and can begin essential pre-hospital care measures while en route to the hospital. Administering aspirin immediately is not recommended without medical evaluation, as certain types of strokes (such as hemorrhagic strokes) can be worsened by aspirin. Placing the patient in a supine position may not be ideal, as maintaining an elevated position can help prevent aspiration in stroke patients. Encouraging the patient to eat and drink is not appropriate, as swallowing difficulties are common in stroke patients and can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A grieving individual may show a range of cues across different aspects of their life. Thoughts may include constant preoccupation with the loss, difficulties in concentrating, or intrusive thoughts. Feelings may involve sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, or relief. Behavioral cues may include changes in sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels, social withdrawal, or the use of substances. Physiologic complaints can manifest as headaches, stomach issues, fatigue, or other physical symptoms. Therefore, when a nurse observes cues related to thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physiologic complaints in a patient, it can suggest that the patient is grieving for a loss.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Albuterol, also known as salbutamol, is a beta-adrenergic agonist medication commonly used for the treatment of conditions such as asthma and COPD. As a beta-adrenergic agonist, albuterol binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, causing bronchodilation, which helps to relieve bronchospasms and improve airflow to the lungs. This action leads to the relaxation of smooth muscle in the airways, thus making breathing easier for patients with COPD or asthma. Anticholinergics, corticosteroids, and methylxanthines have different mechanisms of action and are not directly related to the pharmacological action of albuterol in COPD treatment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In clients with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), death typically occurs within two to three years of diagnosis. This is often due to progressive weakness and degeneration of the muscles involved in breathing, leading to respiratory failure. As the disease advances, the muscles responsible for breathing become increasingly compromised, eventually resulting in the inability to breathe effectively without mechanical ventilation support. Other complications such as aspiration pneumonia and malnutrition may also contribute to the decline in health. Therefore, respiratory failure is the primary cause of death in clients with ALS.