Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The patient with a blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL (hypoglycemia) needs immediate attention as it is an emergency situation that requires prompt intervention to prevent adverse effects. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to serious complications, such as seizures or loss of consciousness. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize assessing and managing this patient first to prevent further deterioration. Choices A, C, and D do not present immediate life-threatening situations requiring urgent intervention like severe hypoglycemia does. A high hemoglobin A1C level, an abnormal oral glucose tolerance test result, and acute abdominal pain, while important, do not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life compared to severe hypoglycemia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Valuing respect for the individual as defining high-quality patient care describes the nurse's paradigm, which is the overall way of thinking and approaching patient care that guides their actions and decisions. It reflects their fundamental beliefs and values regarding patient interactions and care delivery. Critical thinking involves analyzing information objectively and evaluating situations to make informed decisions. Caritas refers to acts of loving kindness and compassionate care in nursing practice. The hierarchy of needs is a theory that describes the hierarchical nature of human needs, such as physiological needs, safety needs, and social needs.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. In the U.S., the healthcare system operates on a model where access to healthcare services is largely determined by an individual's ability to pay for care. This means that those with more financial resources have greater access to a wider range of healthcare services, while those with limited financial means may face barriers to accessing necessary care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because healthcare in the U.S. is not universally provided as a basic right to all equally, it is not exclusively for the rich, and while health insurance is common, it is not the sole determinant of access to care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Safety. Before effective learning can occur, the patient's safety needs must be addressed. When patients feel safe and secure, they are better able to focus on receiving and processing information. Ensuring the patient's safety is a fundamental step in providing care and support, especially in a pre-operative setting where anxiety and concerns about the procedure may be high. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while self-esteem, love and belonging, and self-actualization are important needs, the immediate priority in this scenario is addressing the patient's safety concerns to create a conducive environment for learning.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Caritas. The act of inquiring about a patient's state of mind and emotional needs reflects the concept of Caritas in Dr. Watson's theory. Caritas involves showing deep concern, compassion, and love for the patient, going beyond just the physical aspects of care. Choice A, Intentionality, refers to the capacity for nurses to act deliberately with an ultimate goal in mind. Choice B, Curiosity, is not directly related to the specific action described in the question. Choice D, Holism, involves considering the patient as a whole being, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects, but it is not specifically demonstrated by inquiring about emotional needs and state of mind.