A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents with acute exacerbation and severe dyspnea. Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis reveals pH 7.28, PaO2 55 mmHg, PaCO2 65 mmHg, and HCO3- 30 mEq/L. Which of the following acid-base disturbances is most likely present in this patient?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this case, the patient is experiencing respiratory acidosis as indicated by the low pH (7.28), elevated PaCO2 (65 mmHg), and elevated HCO3- (30 mEq/L). The primary acid-base disturbance is respiratory acidosis due to the retention of carbon dioxide (PaCO2 >45 mmHg) leading to an increase in HCO3- as a compensatory mechanism to maintain pH within normal limits. The elevated HCO3- levels (metabolic compensation) are trying to counterbalance the increased PaCO2 levels (respiratory acidosis) by increasing bicarbonate to attempt to normalize the pH. Overall, the ABG analysis shows respiratory acidosis with metabolic compensation in this COPD patient with an acute exacerbation and severe dyspnea.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The planning function of Nurse Ellen in her role as a nurse manager best corresponds to option D, which is to determine how to achieve the mandate of work. Planning involves setting objectives, developing strategies, and outlining the steps to accomplish those objectives. As a nurse manager, Nurse Ellen would be responsible for creating plans to ensure the effective delivery of patient care, efficient allocation of resources, and meeting the organizational goals of the unit. By determining how to achieve the work mandate, Nurse Ellen can effectively lead her team, allocate resources efficiently, and navigate any challenges that may arise in the operation of the nursing unit.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Ella's statement "I will hang myself" directly indicates a desire and intent to commit suicide. This is classified as a suicidal intent, which is a serious concern that requires immediate attention and intervention. It is crucial to take any mention or indication of suicide seriously and seek help from mental health professionals or crisis intervention services.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this situation, the most appropriate response for the palliative nurse is to validate the patient's feelings of guilt and offer support to address their concerns. It is important to acknowledge the patient's emotions and help them navigate through their guilt in a compassionate and understanding manner. By validating their feelings, the nurse can create a safe space for the patient to express their concerns and work towards finding solutions to alleviate their guilt. This approach fosters trust and a therapeutic relationship between the patient and the nurse, ultimately promoting emotional well-being and facilitating open communication.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the patient's preference and respect their choice. By responding with "So then you would prefer to speak with your doctor?" the nurse is showing understanding and willingness to accommodate the patient's request. This response helps to maintain a positive and respectful interaction with the patient.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The presentation described is characteristic of a parathyroid adenoma. Parathyroid adenomas are benign neoplasms that can present as painless, well-defined nodules usually located in the lower pole of the thyroid gland or in close proximity, such as the lateral aspect of the neck above the clavicle. Fine-needle aspiration cytology of a parathyroid adenoma typically reveals polygonal cells with abundant granular cytoplasm, often referred to as chief cells. This is key in differentiating it from other conditions mentioned in the question.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Albuterol, also known as salbutamol, is a beta-adrenergic agonist medication commonly used for the treatment of conditions such as asthma and COPD. As a beta-adrenergic agonist, albuterol binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, causing bronchodilation, which helps to relieve bronchospasms and improve airflow to the lungs. This action leads to the relaxation of smooth muscle in the airways, thus making breathing easier for patients with COPD or asthma. Anticholinergics, corticosteroids, and methylxanthines have different mechanisms of action and are not directly related to the pharmacological action of albuterol in COPD treatment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The Somogyi effect, also known as rebound hyperglycemia, is a phenomenon observed in patients with diabetes mellitus during sleep. It is characterized by a low blood sugar level (hypoglycemia) followed by high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) in the morning. This occurs due to limited insulin in the body during the night, leading to high blood sugar levels in the morning as a response to the hypoglycemia episode. Too much globulin or albumin are not directly associated with the Somogyi effect. Increasing insulin in the body would rather help prevent the hypoglycemia episode that triggers the rebound hyperglycemia in the Somogyi effect.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that may occur in postpartum clients. When a postpartum client exhibits signs of mastitis, including breast tenderness, erythema, and warmth, it is crucial to notify the healthcare provider immediately. Prompt medical evaluation is necessary to determine the appropriate treatment plan, which may include antibiotics. Delay in treatment can lead to complications, such as abscess formation. Encouraging the client to continue breastfeeding and applying warm compresses may provide some relief but do not address the underlying infection. Administering oral antibiotics would require a prescription from the healthcare provider, hence notifying the provider is the most appropriate initial nursing action in this situation.