During a routine checkup, the nurse assesses a client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) for signs and symptoms of cancer. What is the common AIDS-related cancer?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Kaposi's sarcoma is the most common AIDS-related cancer. It is a type of cancer that usually appears as lesions on the skin, mouth, or internal organs. Kaposi's sarcoma is caused by human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) and is more likely to develop in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with AIDS. The risk of developing Kaposi's sarcoma is higher in people with HIV/AIDS due to the weakened immune system's inability to fight off infections and certain cancers. Regular assessment for signs and symptoms of Kaposi's sarcoma is important in people living with AIDS in order to detect and treat it early.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pulmonary edema is a condition where fluid accumulates in the air sacs of the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing. The primary underlying disorder of pulmonary edema is often decreased left ventricular pumping. When the left ventricle of the heart fails to effectively pump blood to the rest of the body, it can lead to a backlog of blood in the pulmonary circulation. This increase in pressure in the pulmonary circulation can cause fluid to leak out of the capillaries and into the alveoli of the lungs, resulting in pulmonary edema. Therefore, decreased left ventricular pumping is a key factor in the development of pulmonary edema.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly used to help the body get rid of excess salt and water through increased urine output. By inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the loop of Henle in the kidneys, furosemide promotes the excretion of water, sodium, chloride, and other electrolytes. Therefore, the nurse would evaluate the medication as effective if the patient experiences increased urine output, as it indicates that the furosemide is working to eliminate excess fluids from the body.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Enalapril maleate (Vasotec) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. The main action of ACE inhibitors like enalapril is to decrease the levels of angiotensin II in the body. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor that plays a role in regulating blood pressure, stimulating aldosterone secretion, and promoting sodium and water retention. By inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, enalapril reduces vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and ultimately decreased levels of angiotensin II. This mechanism allows for the dilation of arterioles and veins, reduction in cardiac afterload, and ultimately decreases the workload of the heart.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A decreasing level of consciousness is a symptom often associated with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). When the pressure inside the skull rises, it can compress and damage the brain, leading to a deterioration in consciousness. Common causes of increased ICP include traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, and infections. As ICP continues to rise, it can result in serious consequences such as brain herniation, which can be life-threatening if not promptly managed. Therefore, a decreasing level of consciousness should raise concerns about increased ICP and warrant immediate medical evaluation and intervention.