After 2 months of tuberculosis (TB) treatment with isoniazid, rifampin (Rifadin), pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, a patient continues to have positive sputum smears for acid-fast bacilli (AFB). Which action should the nurse take next?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ask the patient whether medications have been taken as directed. This is the next appropriate action because the patient is still testing positive for AFB despite being on the appropriate TB treatment regimen for 2 months. By assessing medication adherence, the nurse can determine if the lack of improvement is due to non-compliance. If the patient has been taking the medications as prescribed, then further evaluation for drug-resistant TB or other factors may be necessary. Choice A is incorrect because assuming drug resistance without confirming adherence could lead to unnecessary treatment changes. Choice B is not the immediate priority as ensuring medication adherence should come first. Choice D is premature without first confirming adherence and evaluating other possible reasons for treatment failure.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Administer prescribed antiemetics 1 hour before the treatments. This is appropriate because antiemetics are medications specifically designed to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting. By administering antiemetics before chemotherapy, the nurse can help prevent severe vomiting in the patient. Option A is incorrect as large meals may worsen nausea. Option B may not be sufficient for severe vomiting. Option D is incorrect as citrus beverages may aggravate nausea. Administering antiemetics before chemotherapy is the most effective way to manage severe vomiting in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Targeted therapy interferes with specific molecules in cancer cells. This type of therapy is designed to target specific abnormalities or molecules that are unique to cancer cells, which helps to inhibit their growth and spread. By focusing on these specific targets, targeted therapy can be more precise and effective compared to traditional chemotherapies. A: Damaging cancer cell DNA to prevent cell replication is more characteristic of traditional chemotherapy, not targeted therapy. B: Directly killing or damaging cancerous cells is a general mechanism of action for various cancer treatments, not specific to targeted therapy. D: Preventing metastasis of cancer cells is not the primary mechanism of action of targeted therapy, which primarily focuses on inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells through specific molecular targeting.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient asking to learn how to clean the tracheostomy stoma shows an active interest in regaining control over personal care. This indicates a shift towards empowerment and increased sense of control. Choice A does not necessarily indicate a resolution of hopelessness as the patient allowing the nurse to suction could be due to compliance rather than empowerment. Choice B may show dependency on the spouse for care. Choice D, using a communication board to request no visitors, does not directly address regaining control over personal care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because drinking low-fat milk aligns with dietary recommendations for hypertension by providing calcium, potassium, and vitamin D without excess saturated fat. This choice indicates understanding of the importance of nutrient-rich, low-fat dairy in managing blood pressure. A: Avoiding nuts or nut butters is not necessary for stage 1 hypertension and may limit healthy fats and nutrients. B: Restricting chicken and fish may lead to inadequate protein intake and deprive the patient of essential nutrients unless they are high in sodium. D: Having two cups of coffee in the morning can potentially increase blood pressure due to caffeine content and is not recommended for hypertension.