A patient with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents with increased dyspnea and cough productive of purulent sputum. On auscultation, coarse crackles are heard bilaterally. Which complication of COPD is the patient most likely experiencing?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient with a history of COPD presenting with increased dyspnea, cough productive of purulent sputum, and coarse crackles on auscultation is most likely experiencing an acute exacerbation of COPD. Acute exacerbations in COPD are defined as sustained worsening of the patient's respiratory symptoms beyond normal day-to-day variations, leading to a change in medication. Common triggers for exacerbations include respiratory infections, air pollution, and non-compliance with medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are meant to be dissolved under the tongue to allow for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. Placing the tablet under the tongue helps to bypass the first-pass metabolism in the liver, leading to a quicker onset of action and chest pain relief. Chewing, swallowing, or applying the tablet to the skin will result in decreased effectiveness or delayed onset of action. Therefore, it is important for the patient to be instructed to place the nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve for optimal therapeutic benefit.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Grilled chicken breast is a suitable choice for a low-phosphorus diet because poultry is typically lower in phosphorus compared to dairy products (like cheese), nuts (like almonds), and whole grains (like wheat toast). This option indicates an understanding of the need to restrict phosphorus intake, which is important for individuals with chronic kidney disease to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A patient with chronic kidney disease prescribed a low-protein diet should avoid high-protein foods like grilled salmon, lentil soup, and beef stew. Chicken Caesar salad, on the other hand, typically contains a smaller amount of protein compared to the other options. This choice indicates an understanding of the need to limit protein intake while still enjoying a balanced meal. However, it is important to note that the quantity and portion sizes of high-protein ingredients in the salad should also be moderate to comply with a low-protein diet.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Beta-blockers are medications commonly used in the management of heart failure. One of the therapeutic effects of beta-blockers is to decrease the heart rate. By blocking the action of adrenaline on the heart, beta-blockers help to slow down the heart rate, reduce the workload on the heart, and improve overall heart function. In patients with heart failure, a decreased heart rate is a favorable outcome as it can help improve cardiac output and reduce symptoms of heart failure such as fatigue and shortness of breath. Monitoring the heart rate is an important assessment parameter to evaluate the effectiveness of beta-blocker therapy in patients with heart failure. Therefore, a decreased heart rate would indicate a therapeutic effect of beta-blocker therapy in this patient.