A patient receiving palliative care for end-stage liver disease develops hepatic encephalopathy, presenting with confusion and altered mental status. What intervention should the palliative nurse prioritize to manage the patient's symptoms?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for managing hepatic encephalopathy in this patient receiving palliative care for end-stage liver disease is to administer lactulose or other ammonia-lowering agents to reduce ammonia levels. Hepatic encephalopathy is believed to be primarily caused by the accumulation of ammonia in the bloodstream due to compromised liver function. Lactulose works by acidifying the gut lumen, which facilitates the excretion of ammonia in the form of ammonium ions. By reducing ammonia levels, hepatic encephalopathy symptoms, such as confusion and altered mental status, can be improved. Initiating other supportive measures like managing precipitating factors, maintaining hydration, and addressing nutritional issues should also be part of the holistic approach in managing hepatic encephalopathy in palliative care. However, addressing the underlying cause by reducing ammonia levels with lactulose is the priority intervention in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: ** In a patient with ARDS, the priority intervention to manage respiratory failure is to initiate lung-protective mechanical ventilation with low tidal volume. ARDS is characterized by widespread inflammation and injury to the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange and severe hypoxemia. Lung-protective ventilation strategies aim to minimize ventilator-induced lung injury by using lower tidal volumes (around 6 mL/kg of predicted body weight) to reduce barotrauma and volutrauma.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the scenario described, with the patient having an acute exacerbation of chronic kidney disease (CKD) leading to hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis, the priority intervention to manage the metabolic derangements is to perform emergent hemodialysis for potassium removal. Hemodialysis is the most effective and rapid method to lower dangerously high potassium levels in the blood. It is crucial in cases of severe hyperkalemia where other measures such as medications or dietary modifications may not be sufficient or fast enough to correct the elevated potassium levels. Additionally, hemodialysis can also help in improving metabolic acidosis by removing waste products and excess electrolytes from the blood. Overall, emergent hemodialysis is the most appropriate intervention for managing the acute metabolic abnormalities in this critically ill patient.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The scenario described is suggestive of a meniscus injury. A twisting injury during sports activity leading to acute knee pain and swelling, accompanied by joint effusion and tenderness along the joint line, is commonly associated with meniscus tears. The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage structure located between the femur and tibia in the knee joint, providing cushioning and stability. The symptoms of a meniscus tear typically include pain, swelling, joint line tenderness, and sometimes mechanical symptoms like locking or clicking. Treatment may involve rest, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery to repair or remove the torn meniscus.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rheumatoid arthritis is a common cause of secondary osteoporosis. Chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis can lead to bone loss due to increased osteoclast activity and decreased bone formation. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at an increased risk for developing osteoporosis, resulting in decreased bone density and increased fracture risk. Monitoring and managing bone health is an important aspect of care for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis to help prevent osteoporosis-related complications.