A patient with chronic open-angle glaucoma is being taught to self-administer pilocarpine. After the patient administers the pilocarpine, the patient states that her vision is blurred. Which nursing action is most appropriate?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Blurred vision is a common adverse effect of pilocarpine, a miotic agent commonly used for open-angle glaucoma. It occurs due to the constriction of the pupil, which can affect the patient's ability to focus clearly. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to explain to the patient that blurred vision is an expected adverse effect of the medication. This reassurance can help alleviate the patient's concerns and improve their understanding of the medication therapy. Holding the next dose and notifying the physician is not necessary in this situation as blurred vision is a known side effect and treating the patient for an allergic reaction or suggesting that the patient put on her glasses would not address the underlying cause of the blurred vision.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging the patient to verbalize her questions and concerns is the best way to assess her specific educational, physical, or psychosocial needs during preoperative teaching for an incisional biopsy of a right breast mass. This approach allows the nurse to better understand the patient's knowledge level, fears, anxieties, and any misconceptions she may have related to the procedure. By actively listening to the patient's questions and concerns, the nurse can tailor the education provided to address specific areas of importance to the patient, ensuring she receives the information and support she needs to feel prepared and comfortable before the procedure. This approach promotes open communication, trust, and patient-centered care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The signs of magnesium toxicity that the nurse should monitor for in a patient with severe preeclampsia on IV magnesium sulfate include an altered sensorium (confusion, lethargy, slurred speech) and a respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute. Altered sensorium is a common symptom of magnesium toxicity, reflecting the drug's central nervous system depressant effects. A decreased respiratory rate can indicate respiratory depression, a potentially serious complication of magnesium toxicity. Monitoring for these signs is crucial to promptly identifying and managing magnesium toxicity in patients on magnesium sulfate therapy. Signs such as cool, clammy skin and a pulse oximeter reading of 95% would not be indicative of magnesium toxicity.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Fats, also known as lipids, are the most calorie-dense nutrient, providing 9 kcal per gram. This high calorie content is due to the structure of fats, which contain more carbon-hydrogen bonds, making them more energy-dense compared to carbohydrates and proteins. Carbohydrates and proteins, on the other hand, provide 4 kcal per gram each. This makes fats an important source of energy in the diet, but they should be consumed in moderation to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When admitting a pregnant patient who has experienced a bleeding episode in late pregnancy, the top priority nursing intervention is to assess fetal heart rate (FHR) and maternal vital signs. This assessment will help the nurse determine the extent of the blood loss and its impact on both the mother and the fetus. Monitoring uterine contractions is important as well, but not the priority in this situation. Placing clean disposable pads to collect any drainage is important for ongoing assessment and management but can be done after assessing the FHR and vital signs. Performing a venipuncture for hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is necessary for further evaluation but can be done after the initial assessment of FHR and vital signs. Checking the patient and fetal well-being is crucial in situations of bleeding in late pregnancy to ensure timely and appropriate intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate action for the home health nurse to take in this situation where a patient reports distortions when looking at an Amsler grid is to arrange for the patient to be assessed for macular degeneration. Distortions in straight lines on an Amsler grid are a common early symptom of macular degeneration, a progressive eye condition that affects central vision. Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, making assessment and early intervention crucial in preserving vision. It is important for the nurse to take the patient's symptoms seriously and facilitate timely evaluation and management to prevent further vision loss. This would involve referring the patient to an ophthalmologist or an eye care specialist for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate action for a patient with H. pylori is to encourage completion of antibiotic therapy. H. pylori is a bacterium that causes peptic ulcers, and treatment involves a combination of antibiotics to eradicate the infection. Antibiotic therapy is crucial in eliminating the bacteria and preventing complications such as recurrent ulcers or stomach cancer. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize ensuring that the patient completes the prescribed course of antibiotics to effectively treat the H. pylori infection.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: B. Overall psychological functioning: It is crucial for the home care nurse to assess the patient's overall psychological functioning after a total mastectomy without reconstruction. The patient may be experiencing emotional distress, body image disturbances, anxiety, or depression related to the surgery and changes in physical appearance. The nurse should evaluate the patient's coping mechanisms, emotional well-being, and any signs of psychological implications to provide appropriate support and referral for mental health services if needed.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A. A risk factor is smoking: Smoking has been identified as a risk factor for colorectal cancer. It is important for the nurse to include this information during the teaching session to emphasize the importance of smoking cessation in reducing the risk of developing colorectal cancer.