A type of illness that will eventually cause death is known as a

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Basic Care of Patient Questions

Question 1 of 5

A type of illness that will eventually cause death is known as a

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Terminal illness. Terminal illness refers to a condition that will ultimately lead to death. This term is specifically used to describe an illness with no possibility of a cure or recovery. Marginal illness (A) refers to a minor or insignificant health issue. Palliative illness (B) refers to a condition in which the goal is to provide relief from symptoms but not necessarily cure it. Complicated illness (D) refers to a condition that is complex in nature but does not imply a fatal outcome. Therefore, Terminal illness is the most appropriate term to describe an illness that will inevitably result in death.

Question 2 of 5

A nurse is assisting a postsurgical patient with effective coughing. How often should this exercise be performed?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of postoperative care, the correct answer of performing effective coughing every 2 hours is crucial for several reasons. Effective coughing helps prevent secretion buildup in the lungs, which can lead to complications such as pneumonia. By coughing every 2 hours, the patient is able to clear their airways regularly, promoting optimal lung function. This frequency strikes a balance between ensuring secretion clearance and preventing excessive fatigue in the patient, as coughing too frequently can be tiring and may not be necessary. Option A, coughing every hour, may be too frequent and could lead to unnecessary exhaustion for the patient without providing additional benefits in secretion clearance. Option C, coughing every 4 hours, is too infrequent and increases the risk of secretion buildup in the lungs, potentially compromising respiratory function. Option D, coughing every shift, does not provide a specific time frame and leaves room for interpretation, which could result in irregular or inadequate secretion clearance. Educationally, it is important for healthcare providers to understand the rationale behind the frequency of postoperative coughing to optimize patient outcomes. Teaching the correct timing for performing this exercise ensures that patients receive consistent and effective care, reducing the risk of respiratory complications and promoting faster recovery. By emphasizing the balance between secretion clearance and patient fatigue, healthcare professionals can provide high-quality postoperative care that supports optimal patient recovery.

Question 3 of 5

The family of a patient being discharged home has arranged to rent a hospital bed. What should the nurse teach the family about safety when using the bed?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of basic care for a patient, teaching the family about advisable positions and controls when using a rented hospital bed is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of the patient. The correct answer, option D, focuses on patient positioning and the proper use of bed controls to prevent falls, promote comfort, and facilitate patient mobility. Option A, teaching how to apply bed linens, is important for maintaining cleanliness and preventing skin breakdown, but it is not directly related to ensuring the patient's safety when using the bed. Option B, proper maintenance of the bed, is essential for its longevity and functionality but does not address the immediate safety concerns of patient positioning. Option C, teaching how to move the patient in bed, is important for preventing pressure ulcers and assisting with repositioning, but it does not encompass the broader aspects of safe bed use and control functionality. Educationally, understanding the significance of teaching advisable positions and controls on a hospital bed aligns with promoting patient safety, preventing injuries, and enhancing the overall quality of care provided at home. By educating families on these aspects, nurses empower them to actively participate in the care of their loved ones and contribute to positive health outcomes. It is essential for caregivers to have a comprehensive understanding of how to properly position and control the bed to ensure the patient's comfort, safety, and well-being at all times.

Question 4 of 5

At what time would a nurse assess the gait of an ambulatory patient?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of assessing a patient's gait, selecting option D, "when the patient walks into the room," as the correct answer is crucial for several reasons. Observing a patient's gait as they walk into the room allows the nurse to assess their natural walking pattern without any prior knowledge or influence. This offers the most authentic representation of the patient's gait and helps in identifying any abnormalities or issues that may not be evident when the patient is lying down or after specific assessments. Option A, "after the neurologic assessment," is incorrect because gait assessment should not be delayed until after a separate assessment. Gait assessment is a fundamental part of the physical examination and should be done promptly when the patient presents themselves. Option B, "at the end of the physical examination," is incorrect because gait assessment is a critical component of the initial assessment process and should not be left until the end. Early identification of gait abnormalities can impact the course of care and treatment planning. Option C, "while the patient is lying supine on the examining table," is incorrect as assessing gait in a supine position is not reflective of how the patient walks in a natural setting. Gait assessment should be done in a context that closely mirrors the patient's real-life situation to provide an accurate evaluation. In an educational context, understanding the importance of assessing a patient's gait at the right time and in the right setting is essential for nursing students and healthcare professionals. This knowledge ensures comprehensive and accurate patient assessments, leading to timely interventions and improved patient outcomes. By prioritizing the observation of gait as the patient walks into the room, nurses can gather valuable information to inform their care plans effectively.

Question 5 of 5

A male patient who has had outpatient surgery is unable to void while lying supine. What can the nurse do to facilitate his voiding?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Assist him to a standing position. This option is correct because standing mimics the normal voiding posture for males, which can help facilitate the process. When a male patient is unable to void while lying supine, gravity can assist in the process by allowing the bladder to empty more effectively in a standing position. Option B) Tell him he has to void to be discharged is incorrect because simply informing the patient of the requirement does not address the physical need to facilitate voiding. It does not provide any practical assistance to help the patient overcome the current challenge. Option C) Pour cold water over his genitalia is incorrect and inappropriate. This action lacks professionalism, violates the patient's dignity, and is not a standard or evidence-based practice to facilitate voiding. Option D) Ask his wife to assist with the urinal may not be appropriate in this situation as the patient may need immediate assistance and waiting for the wife to arrive could delay necessary care. Additionally, involving a family member in such an intimate procedure may not align with the patient's preferences or privacy concerns. In an educational context, understanding the importance of proper positioning for voiding can help nurses provide effective care for patients experiencing difficulty with this basic bodily function. By knowing and applying the correct techniques, nurses can promote patient comfort, prevent complications such as urinary retention, and support the patient's overall well-being during the recovery process.

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