A patient with sickle cell anemia will be given supplemental oxygen and which of the following?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of a patient with sickle cell anemia, the correct answer is D) All of the above. Supplemental oxygen is necessary to improve oxygen saturation in patients with sickle cell anemia who may experience tissue hypoxia during vaso-occlusive crises. IV fluids are essential to maintain adequate hydration levels, which can help prevent complications such as sickling of red blood cells and vaso-occlusive crises. Narcotic pain management is crucial in managing the severe pain that often accompanies sickle cell crises. It helps improve the patient's comfort and overall well-being during these episodes. Transfusion of red blood cells may be necessary to correct anemia and improve oxygen-carrying capacity in patients with sickle cell anemia who are chronically anemic or experiencing severe anemia due to complications. It is important for healthcare providers to understand the comprehensive care required for patients with sickle cell anemia, including the importance of supplemental oxygen, hydration, pain management, and blood transfusions when necessary. This holistic approach aims to manage symptoms effectively, prevent complications, and improve the quality of life for these patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the physician would likely want to rule out lung cancer for several reasons. The patient's age (55) and smoking history put him at a higher risk for developing lung cancer. The persistent cough lasting for 3 weeks, without other typical symptoms of asthma, pneumonia, or flu, raises concern for a more serious underlying issue like lung cancer. Additionally, the absence of crackles, rhonchi, or discolored blood-tinged sputum makes conditions like pneumonia less likely. Asthma (Option A) is less likely in this case because asthma typically presents with wheezing, shortness of breath, and may have a history of triggers like allergens or exercise. The flu (Option C) usually presents with symptoms like fever, body aches, and respiratory symptoms in addition to cough, which are not present in this case. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of considering patient risk factors, clinical presentation, and symptomatology in diagnosing respiratory conditions. Understanding how to differentiate between various respiratory conditions based on presenting symptoms and patient characteristics is crucial in providing effective patient care and making accurate clinical judgments.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In preparing a healthy adult woman like Donna for elective surgery, it is crucial to assess her baseline health status to ensure a safe surgical outcome. Option B, which includes a complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel, and pregnancy test, is the most appropriate choice for preoperative preparation. A CBC provides information about Donna's overall health, including her red and white blood cell counts, which can help identify any underlying infections or anemia. A chemistry panel assesses her electrolyte levels, kidney function, and liver function, which are essential for monitoring organ health before surgery. The pregnancy test is important to rule out the possibility of pregnancy, which can impact anesthesia and surgical planning. Options A, C, and D are not necessary for routine preoperative preparation for a healthy adult undergoing elective surgery. Pulmonary function tests, chest x-rays, urine cultures, thyroid panels, cortisol levels, glucose tolerance tests, ankle-brachial indices, and electrocardiograms are typically reserved for patients with specific risk factors or medical conditions that warrant further investigation. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind preoperative testing is essential for nurses and healthcare providers to provide safe and individualized care to their patients. By selecting the appropriate tests based on the patient's health status and surgical procedure, healthcare professionals can help mitigate risks and ensure a smooth perioperative experience for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) The upper respiratory viral infection that you experienced a couple of weeks ago could have led to acute pericarditis. This response is the best choice because acute pericarditis is commonly caused by viral infections such as respiratory viruses. Educating the patient about the link between the recent upper respiratory infection and the development of pericarditis helps them understand the likely cause of their condition. Option B and C suggesting that pericarditis is a genetic condition inherited from either the father or mother are incorrect. While some conditions can have a genetic component, acute pericarditis is primarily caused by infections, inflammatory disorders, or other underlying health conditions rather than being solely genetic in nature. Option D is also incorrect as it inaccurately describes the cause of acute pericarditis. Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart, and is not caused by weakening of the left side of the heart. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively communicate with patients about their conditions, including causes and contributing factors. Providing accurate information helps patients better understand their health, make informed decisions, and actively participate in their care and treatment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the treatment of a patient with appendicitis, the correct option is C) Surgical removal of appendix. This is the gold standard treatment for appendicitis to prevent complications such as rupture and peritonitis. Option A) Transfusion to replace blood loss is not typically indicated as the primary treatment for appendicitis. While blood loss can occur if the appendix ruptures, transfusion is a supportive measure and not a definitive treatment. Option B) Bowel preparation for cleansing is not a standard treatment for appendicitis. Bowel preparation is more commonly used before certain procedures like colonoscopy or surgery in other parts of the intestines. Option D) Medications to lower pH within the stomach are not effective in treating appendicitis, as the condition involves inflammation of the appendix rather than the stomach lining. Educationally, it is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the appropriate management of appendicitis to provide timely and effective care to patients. Surgical removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy, is essential to prevent complications and resolve the underlying issue. This knowledge helps ensure optimal patient outcomes and highlights the importance of evidence-based practice in medical-surgical care.