A patient with a severe fungal infection demonstrates impaired neutrophil function. Which of the following cellular processes is most likely to be affected in this patient?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in immune defense against pathogens, particularly in phagocytosis - the process by which they engulf and destroy invading microorganisms. In a severe fungal infection, impaired neutrophil function would most likely affect their ability to effectively perform phagocytosis, leading to a compromised immune response against the fungal pathogen. This would result in increased susceptibility to the infection and potentially severe outcomes for the patient. Antibody production, cytokine secretion, and mast cell degranulation are important components of the immune response, but neutrophils are primarily responsible for phagocytosis in the innate immune system.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A severe headache is a classic sign of a hemorrhagic stroke. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and causes bleeding. This bleeding can lead to increased pressure within the skull, resulting in a sudden and severe headache. Other symptoms of a hemorrhagic stroke may include nausea, vomiting, sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and loss of coordination. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if someone is experiencing symptoms of a stroke, including a severe headache, as prompt treatment is crucial in minimizing damage and improving outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: After childbirth, the uterus undergoes involution, which is the process of returning to its pre-pregnant size and location. Initially, the fundus is firm and located at or just below the level of the umbilicus immediately after delivery. Over the next 24 hours, the fundus should gradually decrease in height as involution progresses. By the day after delivery, the nurse would expect the fundal assessment to be in line with the umbilicus or slightly below it, indicating normal involution of the uterus. If the fundus remains high or deviates from this expected progression, further assessment and intervention may be needed to prevent complications such as postpartum hemorrhage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The purpose of a tracheostomy is to establish an artificial airway in the trachea through a surgical procedure. This is done to bypass obstructions in the upper airway, assist with breathing, or facilitate the removal of secretions from the lungs. A tracheostomy helps in maintaining a clear and secure airway for patients who have difficulty breathing or require long-term mechanical ventilation support.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The element involved when a nurse initiates interpersonal communication is the sender. In the communication process, the sender is the person who initiates the message or information to be conveyed to the receiver. In this case, the nurse is taking on the role of the sender by initiating the communication with the patient, another healthcare professional, or any other individual. The sender is responsible for encoding the message and selecting the appropriate channel to convey it effectively. Therefore, in this scenario, the nurse is the one initiating communication, making her the sender in the communication process.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The appropriate approach of the nurse in this situation would be to talk about the reality of death with the father. It is important to provide appropriate and compassionate communication, acknowledging the father's grief while also gently guiding him towards accepting the reality of the situation. By discussing the reality of death and offering support, the nurse can help the father start the grieving process and eventually come to terms with the loss of his son. It is important to provide emotional support and guidance in a sensitive and respectful manner during such a difficult time.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Physiologic jaundice among newborn babies typically occurs between the 2nd and the 3rd day after birth. This type of jaundice is considered normal and harmless and is caused by the breakdown of red blood cells and the immaturity of the newborn baby's liver in processing bilirubin. The bilirubin levels rise in the blood, leading to a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes. This type of jaundice usually peaks around the 3rd to 4th day after birth and then gradually resolves without treatment within the first week of life. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor bilirubin levels and ensure that they do not reach dangerous levels that could potentially harm the newborn.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Ramona Mercer's becoming a mother (BAM) theory emphasizes the dynamic transformation and evolution of a woman's persona as she transitions into motherhood. This theory acknowledges that becoming a mother is a process involving significant changes in a woman's identity, roles, and relationships. It goes beyond just the physical aspects of giving birth and delves into the psychological, emotional, and social aspects of motherhood. Therefore, statement B aligns with the core principles of Mercer's BAM theory and fosters the understanding of the process of becoming a mother.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse is asking the patient to elaborate on their feelings and thoughts related to the upcoming surgery. By asking, "What do you fear MOST about your surgery tomorrow?" the nurse is seeking clarification to better understand the patient's concerns and enable effective communication. Seeking clarification involves asking open-ended questions that encourage the patient to express themselves more fully, allowing the healthcare provider to address their specific worries or needs more effectively.