A woman in active labor presents with a prolonged latent phase, characterized by irregular and infrequent contractions. What maternal condition should the nurse assess for that may contribute to this abnormal labor pattern?

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: The most appropriate response is "Many of the health services are given free, but we people pay for them just the same through our taxes." This response acknowledges the fact that public health services are funded by taxpayers, even though they may be perceived as free by the public. It highlights the connection between government funding and the provision of health services, emphasizing that these services are not truly free but are paid for through taxes. It also addresses the misconception that these services are entirely free without any costs involved.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Guava leaves are recommended by the Department of Health as a remedy for cough due to their natural expectorant properties. The leaves contain compounds that help to loosen mucus and make it easier to expel, providing relief from cough and congestion. Guava leaves are commonly used in traditional medicine for respiratory conditions such as cough, bronchitis, and asthma. They help soothe the throat, reduce inflammation, and promote overall respiratory health. It is important to note that while guava leaves can be a helpful remedy for cough, they should be used in conjunction with other treatments as advised by healthcare professionals for best results.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a pregnant woman presenting with severe abdominal pain, syncope, signs of hypovolemic shock, and gestational age of 6 weeks, the most likely cause is an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tube. As the pregnancy grows and the tube stretches, it can lead to rupture, causing severe abdominal pain, internal bleeding, and signs of shock. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and management. It is important to consider ectopic pregnancy in any pregnant woman presenting with abdominal pain and signs of shock, especially in the first trimester.

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: When a nurse discovers a discrepancy between the medication order and the patient's medication record, the priority action is to verify the medication order with the prescriber to ensure accuracy and patient safety. Administering the medication without clarification can put the patient at risk. Documenting the discrepancy and informing the charge nurse is important, but it should not delay verifying the order with the prescriber. Contacting the pharmacy for clarification may be necessary in some cases, but the immediate action should be to confirm the prescription with the prescriber to prevent errors and ensure the patient receives the correct medication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Digitalis therapy, commonly prescribed for heart conditions, is known for its narrow therapeutic range and potential for toxicity. In the case of Patient Lily, who has been on digitalis therapy since she was pregnant, the nurse would anticipate the continuation of the same dosage to maintain the therapeutic effects and reduce the risks of toxicity. It is essential to monitor the patient's digitalis levels regularly and adjust the dosage if necessary based on the patient's response and any changes in their clinical status. Switching to a more potent drug, changing the medication, or adding a diuretic would not be appropriate without further assessment and consultation with the healthcare provider managing Lily's digitalis therapy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Coordinating with radiology or gastroenterology for procedural guidance is crucial to ensure the success of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube insertion. This procedure is typically performed under endoscopic guidance to ensure proper placement of the tube into the stomach through the abdominal wall. Radiology or gastroenterology professionals are trained to perform and guide the insertion procedure, making their involvement essential for a successful outcome. Additionally, their expertise helps minimize the risk of complications during and after the PEG tube placement.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The palliative nurse's most appropriate response in this scenario is to offer empathetic listening and explore the patient's concerns about the future. By providing a compassionate and supportive environment for the patient to express their fears and anxieties, the nurse can help the patient feel heard and understood. This approach allows the nurse to address the patient's emotional needs and provide appropriate support to help them cope with their feelings. Avoiding discussions or minimizing the patient's concerns may invalidate their emotions and hinder the therapeutic relationship. Encouraging distraction techniques or focusing solely on positive thoughts may not address the underlying fears and anxieties that the patient is experiencing. Therefore, offering empathetic listening and exploring the patient's concerns is the most appropriate way for the nurse to provide holistic care for the patient with advanced heart failure.