A patient with a brain tumor has begun to exhibit signs of cachexia. What subsequent assessment should the nurse prioritize?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Assessment of nutritional status. Cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by weight loss, muscle wasting, and weakness commonly seen in cancer patients. Assessing the patient's nutritional status is crucial to address the underlying causes of cachexia and to develop an appropriate management plan. This assessment includes evaluating dietary intake, weight changes, body composition, and nutritional deficiencies. Choice A: Assessment of peripheral nervous function is not the priority in this case as cachexia is primarily related to metabolic and nutritional issues rather than peripheral nervous system dysfunction. Choice B: Assessment of cranial nerve function is also not the priority since cachexia is not directly associated with cranial nerve dysfunction. Choice D: Assessment of respiratory status may be important in general patient care, but in this case, addressing the underlying nutritional issues that are contributing to cachexia should be the priority.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Total placenta previa. In this condition, the placenta completely covers the cervix, posing a risk of severe bleeding during vaginal delivery. Cesarean birth is necessary to avoid potential life-threatening complications for both the mother and the baby. Partial abruptio placentae (choice A) involves premature separation of the placenta, but it doesn't always require a cesarean birth. Ectopic pregnancy (choice C) occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically requiring surgical intervention but not always a cesarean birth. Eclampsia (choice D) is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and seizures, but it doesn't always necessitate cesarean birth unless there are other complications that require it.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient's symptoms of pounding headache, visual changes, and epigastric pain are classic signs of worsening preeclampsia, indicating a significant increase in blood pressure and potential progression to eclampsia (seizures). Immediate medical intervention is crucial to prevent complications. A: Gastrointestinal upset does not explain the combination of symptoms presented. B: Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia but does not cause these specific symptoms. C: Anxiety does not typically present with the specific physical symptoms mentioned.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: decreased fibrinogen. In disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), there is widespread activation of coagulation leading to consumption of clotting factors like fibrinogen, resulting in decreased levels. Platelets are usually decreased, not increased, in DIC. Hematocrit may be elevated due to hemoconcentration but not directly related to DIC. Thromboplastin time would be prolonged, not decreased, in DIC due to consumption of clotting factors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Platelet count of 50,000/mcL. HELLP syndrome is a severe form of preeclampsia characterized by Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count. In this scenario, a platelet count of 50,000/mcL indicates thrombocytopenia, which is a key component of HELLP syndrome. Low platelet count can lead to bleeding complications and is a critical indicator of the syndrome. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. B: Liver enzyme levels within normal range do not necessarily indicate the presence of HELLP syndrome, as elevated liver enzymes are a hallmark feature of the syndrome. C: Being negative for edema is not a reliable indicator of HELLP syndrome, as edema is a common finding in preeclampsia but not specific to HELLP syndrome. D: No evidence of nausea or vomiting is not a specific sign of HELLP syndrome, as these