A patient with abnormal sodium losses is receiving a house diet. To provide 1,600mg sodium daily, the nurse could supplement the patient's diet with:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: One beef cube typically contains about 800mg of sodium, and 8oz of tomato juice contains approximately 480mg of sodium. Therefore, to provide a total of 1,600mg of sodium daily, the nurse could supplement the patient's diet with one beef cube (800mg sodium) and 12oz of tomato juice (720mg sodium). This combination would effectively provide the required 1,600mg of sodium per day for the patient with abnormal sodium losses.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring daily intake and output is the most reliable method for assessing fluid balance in a patient. By accurately measuring the amount of fluids taken in through foods, drinks, and IV fluids, as well as the amount of fluids eliminated through urine, stool, vomit, and other means, healthcare providers can closely track the body's fluid balance. Discrepancies between intake and output can indicate potential issues such as dehydration or fluid overload. This method provides quantitative data that can guide appropriate interventions and treatment adjustments to maintain the patient's fluid balance within normal limits. While vital signs, daily weight, and skin turgor are also important indicators of fluid status, they may not always provide as specific or accurate information as the direct measurement of intake and output.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The last step when inserting an IV cannula is to place a sterile dressing over the insertion site. This helps to protect the site from contamination and reduce the risk of infection. A sterile dressing also helps to maintain the integrity of the insertion site and prevent any foreign materials from entering the wound. Additionally, the dressing provides a barrier between the cannula site and the external environment, promoting healing and reducing the chance of complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Radiation therapy for lung cancer is typically used with the goal of increasing comfort for the patient by reducing symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, and coughing. While it may help to shrink tumors and slow the progression of the disease, it is usually not considered a curative treatment for advanced lung cancer. It is important for the patient to have realistic expectations and understand that the goal of radiation therapy is primarily to improve their quality of life and manage symptoms.