A patient with osteoarthritis of the hip undergoes surgical intervention with a total hip arthroplasty (THA). Which postoperative complication should the healthcare team monitor for in the immediate postoperative period?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Following total hip arthroplasty (THA), patients are at an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to factors such as immobility, surgery-related vascular damage, and hypercoagulability. DVT refers to the formation of blood clots in the deep veins, typically in the lower extremities. These clots can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism (PE). Therefore, monitoring for signs and symptoms of DVT is crucial in the immediate postoperative period to promptly detect and prevent the development of complications such as PE. Common signs of DVT include leg swelling, pain, warmth, and redness. Additionally, healthcare providers may employ preventive measures such as early ambulation, compression stockings, and anticoagulant therapy to reduce the risk of DVT post-THA surgery.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Confirming the patient's informed consent before the procedure is the most crucial action for the nurse to prioritize to ensure procedural safety during a thoracentesis. Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement that ensures the patient understands the purpose of the procedure, its potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. By confirming informed consent, the nurse ensures that the patient has the necessary information and has willingly agreed to undergo the procedure. This process promotes patient autonomy, prevents misunderstandings, and reduces the likelihood of legal issues related to the procedure. Additionally, verifying informed consent helps establish a foundation of trust between the healthcare team and the patient. While other actions like positioning the patient correctly and ensuring pre-procedure antibiotics may also contribute to the safety of the procedure, obtaining informed consent is the foundational step that must be prioritized.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation described is characteristic of acute angle-closure glaucoma. This condition typically presents with sudden-onset severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting. On examination, the affected eye may appear red due to conjunctival injection, and there may be a steamy cornea due to corneal edema. The mid-dilated, non-reactive pupil is a key finding in angle-closure glaucoma, as the iris bombe (forward movement of the peripheral iris) blocks the drainage angle, leading to increased intraocular pressure. If left untreated, acute angle-closure glaucoma can result in irreversible vision loss. Immediate intervention is crucial to lower the intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Prompt referral to an ophthalmologist for definitive treatment is necessary in cases of suspected acute angle-closure glaucoma.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Maternal dehydration can contribute to a prolonged latent phase during labor. Dehydration can lead to reduced blood volume and electrolyte imbalances, which can result in ineffective uterine contractions. Without adequate hydration, the uterus may not contract effectively, causing irregular and infrequent contractions. It is important for the nurse to assess the woman's hydration status and encourage her to stay hydrated during labor to help regulate contractions and progress labor.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: If a nurse notices a discrepancy between the surgical count and the number of instruments on the sterile field during surgery, it is crucial to inform the surgical team immediately and initiate a thorough search. Patient safety is of utmost importance, and any missing instruments could potentially pose a risk to the patient. By informing the team and conducting a thorough search, the missing instrument can be located promptly to ensure it is not inadvertently left inside the patient's body. Continuing with the procedure or ignoring the discrepancy without further investigation could lead to serious consequences for the patient's well-being. It is always better to address any discrepancies or concerns during surgery proactively to maintain a high standard of patient care and safety.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The patient is most likely experiencing an acute myocardial infarction (MI) based on the presentation of crushing chest pain lasting longer than 20 minutes, diaphoresis, dyspnea, and ST-segment elevation on the ECG. These symptoms are consistent with the classic presentation of an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), which is a type of acute MI that is characterized by prolonged ischemia leading to myocardial cell death. In this case, the ST-segment elevation in the anterior leads indicates myocardial damage in the corresponding area of the heart supplied by the affected coronary artery. This is a medical emergency that requires urgent intervention to restore blood flow to the affected myocardium and prevent further complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: For managing a conscious patient with a dislocated shoulder, the appropriate action is to provide analgesia to help manage the pain and discomfort associated with the dislocation. Applying ice packs to the affected shoulder can also help reduce swelling and provide some relief. It is important to refrain from attempting to reduce the dislocation by pulling on the affected arm, as this can cause further damage and worsen the injury. Applying a splint to immobilize the arm in the dislocated position is also not recommended, as this can lead to complications and hinder the reduction process. Administering intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration is not directly related to managing a dislocated shoulder in a conscious patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate action for Nurse Pedrito to take at this time is to explore the reason for Mang Emilio's refusal to take his daily medication for hypertension. By understanding the underlying cause of his refusal, Nurse Pedrito can address any concerns or barriers that may be preventing Mang Emilio from adhering to his medication regimen. This approach emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care and communication in promoting medication compliance and overall health outcomes. Additionally, it allows Nurse Pedrito to work collaboratively with Mang Emilio to find a solution that meets his needs and preferences.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cohort studies are types of epidemiological studies that involve a group of individuals who share a common characteristic or experience and are followed over time to observe the development of a particular health outcome. This type of study is useful in determining the incidence of a disease, identifying risk factors, and studying the natural history of a disease. Cohort studies allow researchers to investigate the relationship between exposure and outcome by following participants forward in time. It helps in establishing causality and is particularly useful for studying rare exposures or outcomes. In contrast, cross-sectional studies involve collecting data from a population at a single point in time, experimental studies involve interventions and control groups, and case-control studies involve comparing individuals with a particular health outcome (cases) to those without the outcome (controls) retrospectively.