A patient with a history of cirrhosis is at risk for developing hepatic encephalopathy. Which nursing intervention is most effective in preventing and managing hepatic encephalopathy?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Lactulose is the most effective nursing intervention in preventing and managing hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis. Lactulose works by promoting the elimination of ammonia in the colon through its laxative effect, thereby reducing ammonia levels in the blood. High ammonia levels are associated with the development of hepatic encephalopathy. By administering lactulose as prescribed, nurses can help reduce the risk of encephalopathy and manage symptoms effectively. Monitoring serum ammonia levels is important in assessing the effectiveness of lactulose therapy, but administering lactulose is the primary nursing intervention in this situation. Dietary protein restriction is also commonly recommended; however, lactulose administration is the most vital intervention in this scenario. Additionally, encouraging increased fluid intake is important for overall liver health but is not as specific to preventing and managing hepatic encephalopathy as administering lactulose.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Filipinos have generally low awareness about osteoporosis. Despite the increasing number of cases in the country, many Filipinos still lack knowledge about the disease and its risk factors. Osteoporosis is a significant health concern in the Philippines, especially among the elderly population, but there is still a need for more education and awareness campaigns to improve prevention and management strategies.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Meperidine (Demerol) is an opioid analgesic. Overdose of Meperidine can lead to respiratory depression, characterized by slow and shallow breathing. As a result of respiratory depression, hypercapnia, which is an increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood, can occur. This is a serious concern and requires immediate medical intervention to support respiratory function. Therefore, hypercapnia would be the assessment by the nurse that causes a concern for Meperidine overdose.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A dental abscess is a localized accumulation of pus within the periodontal tissues, often associated with deep periodontal pockets. This condition typically arises from bacterial infection in the tooth pulp (periapical abscess) or in the periodontal tissues (periodontal abscess). The pus accumulation leads to localized swelling, pain, and tenderness in the affected area. Treatment usually involves draining the abscess and addressing the underlying infection through root canal therapy, periodontal treatment, or extraction, depending on the extent of the infection. It is important to seek prompt dental care to prevent potential complications as abscesses can lead to severe pain, systemic infection, and even tooth loss if left untreated.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A vegetative state, now more commonly referred to as unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, describes a condition where the patient is awake but with no awareness of themselves or their surroundings. This state usually follows a severe brain injury, such as traumatic brain injury. Patients in a vegetative state may have sleep-wake cycles, open their eyes, and even exhibit reflex movements, but they do not demonstrate any meaningful interaction with the environment. Differentiating between coma and vegetative state is important, as coma implies a complete lack of consciousness, while patients in a vegetative state have preserved wakefulness without awareness. Minimally conscious state (choice C) refers to a condition where there are some minimal signs of awareness or purposeful interaction, making it a different state than the one described in the scenario. Locked-in syndrome (choice D) is a condition where the patient is conscious and aware but unable to move or communicate due to paralysis, which is not consistent

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Nephrolithiasis refers to the formation of stones within the kidney or urinary tract. The most common types of kidney stones are either composed of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate. When these stones form within the renal collecting system, they can lead to symptoms such as flank pain, hematuria, and urinary obstruction. Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction and ureterovesical junction (UVJ) obstruction are specific types of blockages within the urinary system that can be caused by kidney stones but are not characteristic of the stone formation itself. Renal colic is the term used to describe the severe pain associated with the passage of a kidney stone through the ureter.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Postpartum hemorrhage is defined as a blood loss of more than 500 ml within the first 24 hours after vaginal delivery or more than 1000 ml following a cesarean delivery. Excessive bleeding can lead to hypovolemic shock and can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed. Therefore, a blood loss of more than 500 ml/24 hours would lead the nurse to suspect a postpartum hemorrhage and prompt further assessment and intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Normal saline solution is the best choice for cleaning Claudia's eyes with drainage. It is a sterile solution that closely matches the natural pH of the eyes, making it gentle and safe for ocular use. Normal saline can help flush out any debris or discharge in the eye without causing further irritation or complications. On the other hand, hydrochloric acid is a corrosive substance that can cause significant harm if it comes into contact with the eyes. Mineral water may contain impurities that could further irritate the eyes. Soapsuds solution is not recommended for eye cleaning as it can cause irritation and damage to the delicate eye tissues. Therefore, normal saline solution is the most appropriate and safe option for cleaning Claudia's eyes in this situation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should prioritize using sterile technique during the tracheostomy tube change to ensure patient safety. Tracheostomy procedures involve a direct entry into the airway, making it crucial to prevent infection and reduce the risk of complications. Sterile technique, including proper hand hygiene, wearing sterile gloves, and using sterile equipment, helps minimize the introduction of pathogens into the patient's airway, reducing the risk of infection. By maintaining a sterile field, the nurse can protect the patient from potential harm and promote a successful outcome of the tracheostomy tube change.