A patient with diabetes is being discharged after a prolonged hospitalization. Which of the following should the nurse include in discharge instructions?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Regularly checking blood glucose levels is crucial for diabetic patients to monitor their condition and adjust treatment as needed. This helps in managing blood sugar levels effectively and preventing complications. Choice B is incorrect because stopping insulin abruptly can lead to dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Choice C is incorrect because while exercise is important for diabetic patients, vigorous exercise every day may not be suitable for everyone and should be discussed with healthcare providers. Choice D is incorrect as carbohydrates are an essential source of energy and nutrients for the body. Diabetic patients can still consume carbohydrates in controlled portions as part of a balanced diet.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: The review of systems is a systematic approach to assessing the patient's overall health. Step 2: It gathers information about symptoms across different body systems. Step 3: This information helps identify potential health risks and guide health promotion practices. Step 4: Choice B is correct as it aligns with the purpose of the review of systems. Summary: - Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on physical findings only, not the comprehensive assessment. - Choice C is incorrect as the review of systems is not primarily for teaching medical terms. - Choice D is incorrect as it does not provide enough information for diagnosing specific medical problems.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Percuss the thorax bilaterally, noting any differences in percussion tones. This is the best action because it allows the nurse to assess for potential underlying issues such as pneumothorax or pleural effusion which could be causing the respiratory distress. Percussion can help identify abnormal air or fluid accumulation in the chest. Choice A is incorrect because simply counting respirations does not provide immediate information on the cause of distress. Choice C is incorrect as inspecting for masses and bleeding does not directly address the urgency of the situation. Choice D is incorrect as waiting for a chest x-ray would delay necessary interventions in a critical situation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it shows respect for the patient's belief and promotes open communication. By asking the patient to explain more about the hot-cold theory, the nurse acknowledges the patient's perspective and builds a trusting relationship. Option A dismisses the patient's belief, risking alienation. Option B is informative but misses the opportunity to understand the patient's cultural beliefs. Option C is unprofessional and does not address the patient's concerns.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer A is correct: 1. Asking "How do you feel today?" directly addresses the patient's emotional state. 2. Assessing affect involves understanding the patient's emotional response or mood. 3. This open-ended question encourages the patient to express their feelings. 4. It allows the nurse to gain insight into the patient's emotional well-being. 5. Options B, C, and D focus on different aspects like memory, medication effectiveness, and functional ability, not directly related to assessing affect.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the nurse's response was therapeutic by sharing her own experience to empathize with the patient. This helps establish a connection and validate the patient's feelings. It shows understanding without dismissing the patient's concerns. A is incorrect because the nurse did not provide false reassurance but offered a comforting perspective. C is incorrect as the nurse did not imply that medication was necessary but rather highlighted its availability as an option. D is incorrect since the response did not provide false assurance but rather shared personal experience to offer support.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises helps to improve lung function and prevent complications in pneumonia. This intervention can help clear secretions, improve oxygenation, and prevent respiratory distress. Administering antibiotics (choice A) is important but not the priority for immediate patient care. Providing pain relief (choice C) is essential but addressing respiratory function is more critical. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels (choice D) is necessary, but promoting lung function through exercises takes precedence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Limiting sodium intake. This is crucial for a patient with hypertension as excess sodium can lead to increased blood pressure. Sodium intake should be limited to lower the risk of cardiovascular complications. B: Increasing potassium intake is beneficial, but not as critical as limiting sodium for hypertension management. C: Increasing fluid intake may or may not be necessary depending on the patient's condition, but it is not as crucial as limiting sodium for hypertension management. D: Consuming more caffeine can actually elevate blood pressure, so it is not recommended for patients with hypertension.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because prevention emphasizes the importance of personal behavior in maintaining health. It highlights the role of individual choices in preventing diseases and promoting well-being. A is incorrect because prevention focuses on proactive measures rather than treating external factors. B is incorrect as it contradicts the importance of prevention in reducing preventable deaths. D is incorrect because prevention is about avoiding health issues before they occur, not treating them after they have developed.