End-of-life palliative nursing care involves

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In end-of-life palliative nursing care, it is crucial to prioritize holistic care that encompasses not just the physical needs of the patient but also their emotional and psychological well-being. Option D, "Encouraging the patient and family members to verbalize their feelings of sadness," is the correct choice because it reflects the importance of open communication and emotional support during this sensitive time. By allowing patients and their families to express their emotions, nurses can provide comfort, facilitate coping, and strengthen the therapeutic relationship. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not align with the principles of palliative care. Constant assessment for changes in physiologic functioning (Option A) is important in general nursing care but does not solely encompass the essence of end-of-life care, which involves a more comprehensive approach. Administering large doses of analgesics to keep the patient sedated (Option B) contradicts the goal of maintaining comfort while allowing the patient to remain conscious and interacting with their loved ones. Providing as little physical care as possible to prevent disturbing the patient (Option C) goes against the foundation of compassionate care and support needed in end-of-life situations. Educationally, understanding the principles of end-of-life palliative care is essential for healthcare professionals to provide quality care to patients and their families during this challenging period. By focusing on holistic support, effective communication, and emotional well-being, nurses can ensure a dignified and comfortable end-of-life experience for patients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of adult medical-surgical care, particularly in a post-operative patient like Steve with pneumonia, the correct answer is A) Cephalosporin, such as cefazolin. Cephalosporins are commonly prescribed for pneumonia due to their effectiveness against common pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae. They have a broad spectrum of activity and are often preferred in surgical patients due to their efficacy against Gram-positive organisms. Option B) Penicillin, such as amoxicillin, is not the best choice for pneumonia post-surgery as it may not provide adequate coverage against the range of pathogens involved. Option C) Fluoroquinolone, such as levofloxacin, is generally reserved for specific situations or resistant cases due to concerns about overuse and development of resistance. Option D) Tetracycline, such as doxycycline, is not commonly used as first-line treatment for pneumonia and may not provide sufficient coverage in this scenario. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind antibiotic selection in pneumonia is crucial for nursing practice. It involves considering the patient's specific condition, potential pathogens involved, antibiotic spectrum, and any relevant patient factors such as allergies or previous antibiotic exposure. This knowledge helps nurses provide optimal care and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the physician would likely want to rule out lung cancer for several reasons. The patient's age (55) and smoking history put him at a higher risk for developing lung cancer. The persistent cough lasting for 3 weeks, without other typical symptoms of asthma, pneumonia, or flu, raises concern for a more serious underlying issue like lung cancer. Additionally, the absence of crackles, rhonchi, or discolored blood-tinged sputum makes conditions like pneumonia less likely. Asthma (Option A) is less likely in this case because asthma typically presents with wheezing, shortness of breath, and may have a history of triggers like allergens or exercise. The flu (Option C) usually presents with symptoms like fever, body aches, and respiratory symptoms in addition to cough, which are not present in this case. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of considering patient risk factors, clinical presentation, and symptomatology in diagnosing respiratory conditions. Understanding how to differentiate between various respiratory conditions based on presenting symptoms and patient characteristics is crucial in providing effective patient care and making accurate clinical judgments.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In preparing a healthy adult woman like Donna for elective surgery, it is crucial to assess her baseline health status to ensure a safe surgical outcome. Option B, which includes a complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel, and pregnancy test, is the most appropriate choice for preoperative preparation. A CBC provides information about Donna's overall health, including her red and white blood cell counts, which can help identify any underlying infections or anemia. A chemistry panel assesses her electrolyte levels, kidney function, and liver function, which are essential for monitoring organ health before surgery. The pregnancy test is important to rule out the possibility of pregnancy, which can impact anesthesia and surgical planning. Options A, C, and D are not necessary for routine preoperative preparation for a healthy adult undergoing elective surgery. Pulmonary function tests, chest x-rays, urine cultures, thyroid panels, cortisol levels, glucose tolerance tests, ankle-brachial indices, and electrocardiograms are typically reserved for patients with specific risk factors or medical conditions that warrant further investigation. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind preoperative testing is essential for nurses and healthcare providers to provide safe and individualized care to their patients. By selecting the appropriate tests based on the patient's health status and surgical procedure, healthcare professionals can help mitigate risks and ensure a smooth perioperative experience for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) The upper respiratory viral infection that you experienced a couple of weeks ago could have led to acute pericarditis. This response is the best choice because acute pericarditis is commonly caused by viral infections such as respiratory viruses. Educating the patient about the link between the recent upper respiratory infection and the development of pericarditis helps them understand the likely cause of their condition. Option B and C suggesting that pericarditis is a genetic condition inherited from either the father or mother are incorrect. While some conditions can have a genetic component, acute pericarditis is primarily caused by infections, inflammatory disorders, or other underlying health conditions rather than being solely genetic in nature. Option D is also incorrect as it inaccurately describes the cause of acute pericarditis. Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart, and is not caused by weakening of the left side of the heart. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively communicate with patients about their conditions, including causes and contributing factors. Providing accurate information helps patients better understand their health, make informed decisions, and actively participate in their care and treatment.