ATI RN
Basic Nursing Care of the Patient Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient scheduled for major surgery will receive general anesthesia. Why is inhalation anesthesia often used to provide the desired actions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Inhalation anesthesia is often used to provide the desired actions during major surgery because of its rapid excretion and reversibility. Option A is correct because inhalation anesthetics are eliminated through the lungs, allowing for a faster recovery and reversal of their effects post-surgery. Option B is incorrect because the location of administration is not a primary factor in choosing inhalation anesthesia. Option C is incorrect as inhalation anesthesia does not solely involve the respiratory system and skin; it affects the entire body. Option D is incorrect because inhalation anesthesia actually has a rapid onset of action and suppresses reflexes, which is beneficial during surgery. Educationally, it is important to understand the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of different anesthesia types to ensure safe and effective patient care. Inhalation anesthesia is commonly used due to its controllable nature, rapid onset, reversibility, and ability to provide a deep level of anesthesia for surgical procedures. Students and healthcare providers should be aware of the reasons behind choosing specific anesthesia methods to optimize patient outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is making a bed occupied by a patient. Which of the following is a recommended step for this procedure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Fan-fold soiled linens as close to the patient as possible. This step is recommended because fan-folding the linens keeps them contained and close to the patient, minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for the patient. Option A, lowering the side rail on the opposite side of you, is incorrect because it does not directly relate to the proper technique for making a bed with an occupied patient. It is important to focus on the immediate task at hand to ensure patient comfort and safety. Option B, discarding soiled linen onto the floor, is incorrect as it poses an infection control risk and is not a standard practice in healthcare settings. Proper disposal of soiled linens is essential to prevent the spread of pathogens and maintain a clean environment. Option D, placing the drawsheet under the patient's knees, is incorrect as it is not a recommended step in the procedure of making a bed with an occupied patient. While positioning the patient for comfort is important, the specific focus of this question is on the handling of soiled linens during the bed-making process. In an educational context, understanding and following proper procedures for basic nursing care, such as bed-making, is crucial for providing quality patient care and maintaining a safe healthcare environment. By learning and practicing correct techniques, nurses can promote patient comfort, prevent infections, and uphold professional standards in their practice.
Question 3 of 5
What term is used to document impaired muscle strength or weakness?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of basic nursing care, understanding terminology related to muscle strength and weakness is crucial for accurate documentation and effective patient care. The correct answer is B) paresis. Paresis refers to partial weakness in muscle strength, which is distinct from complete loss of movement (paralysis) or increased muscle tone (spasticity). In nursing practice, accurately documenting paresis helps healthcare providers to communicate the level of muscle impairment a patient is experiencing, which is essential for developing appropriate care plans and monitoring changes in the patient's condition. A) Paralysis is incorrect because it refers to complete loss of muscle function, whereas the question specifically asks for impaired muscle strength or weakness, not total loss of function. C) Spasticity is incorrect because it refers to increased muscle tone, stiffness, and involuntary muscle contractions, rather than weakness or impaired muscle strength. D) Flaccidity is incorrect because it describes a lack of muscle tone or stiffness, often associated with conditions like hypotonia, rather than weakness or impaired muscle strength. Understanding the nuances of these terms is essential for nurses to accurately assess, document, and communicate information about a patient's condition. By mastering this terminology, nurses can provide better care and collaborate effectively with the healthcare team to promote positive patient outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is teaching a patient about the amount of water to drink each day. What is the recommended daily fluid intake for adults?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) 8 to 10 (8-oz) glasses per day for recommended daily fluid intake for adults. This recommendation is based on the general guideline that adults should consume about 2 to 3 liters (approximately 8 to 10 cups) of fluid per day to maintain adequate hydration. Water is essential for various bodily functions, including digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and waste removal. Option A) 1 to 2 (4-oz) glasses per day is too low and would not provide sufficient hydration for most adults. Option B) 5 to 6 (6-oz) glasses per day is also below the recommended range and may not meet the fluid needs of an adult. Option D) 16 to 20 (12-oz) glasses per day is excessive and could potentially lead to overhydration, which may have negative health consequences. Educationally, it is important for nurses to provide accurate information to patients regarding daily fluid intake to promote optimal health and well-being. Teaching patients about the importance of proper hydration and the recommended amount of fluid intake can help prevent dehydration and its associated complications. Encouraging patients to drink adequate amounts of water can also support overall health and wellness.
Question 5 of 5
A Hematest for occult blood in the stool has been ordered. What is occult blood?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) blood that cannot be seen. Occult blood refers to blood that is not visible to the naked eye and can only be detected through laboratory testing such as a Hematest. This type of blood is hidden within the stool and is not apparent through its color or appearance. Option A) bright red visible blood is incorrect because this type of bleeding would be easily visible in the stool and not considered occult. Option B) dark black visible blood is also incorrect as black stool usually indicates upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which is not considered occult. Option C) blood that contains mucus is incorrect as mucus is a separate entity and does not necessarily indicate the presence of blood in the stool. Understanding the concept of occult blood is crucial in nursing care as it can be an indicator of various gastrointestinal conditions such as ulcers, polyps, or colorectal cancer. Nurses need to be able to accurately interpret test results and make appropriate referrals or interventions based on these findings to ensure optimal patient care and outcomes. Regular screening for occult blood can also aid in early detection and treatment of potentially serious health issues.