Following administration of 1.5 g of methocarbamol (Robaxin), which of the following statements by Mrs. Iris would inform the nurse that the medication was effective?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) "Those awful muscle spasms have let up." This response indicates that the medication, methocarbamol (Robaxin), has been effective in relieving the muscle spasms, which is its intended therapeutic effect. Mrs. Iris experiencing a reduction in muscle spasms is a positive outcome and suggests that the medication is working as expected. Option A) "I was thirsty after that medication" is unrelated to the effectiveness of methocarbamol in managing muscle spasms. Option B) "I have been urinating a lot today" is not a typical indicator of methocarbamol's effectiveness. Option D) "The swelling in my leg seems to have gone down" is also not a direct indicator of the medication's effectiveness in treating muscle spasms. Educationally, understanding how to assess the effectiveness of medications is crucial for healthcare professionals. It allows them to monitor the patient's response to treatment accurately and make informed decisions regarding ongoing care. In the context of neurological conditions, being able to interpret patient responses to medications is essential for optimizing patient outcomes and ensuring safe and effective management of symptoms.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct response to the scenario presented in the question is option C: "Many times patients with SLE have periods of exacerbations and remission." This response is the best initial approach because it provides Mrs. Post with relevant information about the fluctuating nature of SLE, helping her understand that her experience of being asymptomatic at times is common in this condition. It validates her concerns and offers reassurance by explaining the typical disease course of SLE. Option A, "Perhaps there is an error in the diagnosis," is incorrect because it undermines the patient's trust in the healthcare provider and does not address Mrs. Post's emotional state. Option B, "Why don't you ask your physician about your concerns," is not the best initial response as it deflects the responsibility from the healthcare provider to the patient, who is already distressed. Option D, "Tell me why you are so upset about the diagnosis," does not provide immediate information or reassurance about SLE, which is crucial in addressing Mrs. Post's distress. In an educational context, it is essential for healthcare professionals to develop effective communication skills to address patients' emotional responses to diagnoses. Understanding the psychosocial aspects of patient care is as important as clinical knowledge. Providing tailored responses that educate and support patients can improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. It is crucial to approach each patient with empathy, understanding, and the appropriate medical information to build a trusting patient-provider relationship.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of caring for a patient with a new fracture, the first priority is to ensure adequate circulation and nerve function distal to the injury site. Option D is correct because assessing circulation and sensation helps to determine if there is any compromise to blood flow or nerve damage, which are critical considerations in managing a fracture to prevent further complications or damage. This assessment can guide immediate interventions to prevent ischemia or nerve injury. Option A, assessing respiratory rate, and effort, and pulse, is important for a general assessment of the patient's condition but is not the first priority when dealing with a new fracture unless there are signs of respiratory distress or shock. Option B, checking the fracture site for bleeding, is important to address bleeding and prevent further blood loss, but this would typically come after ensuring circulation and sensation distal to the fracture site. Option C, looking for signs of infection at the wound site in an open fracture, is crucial for preventing infection, but it is not the immediate priority when the focus is on assessing circulation and nerve function to prevent complications associated with compromised blood flow or nerve damage. In an educational context, understanding the prioritization of care in managing a new fracture is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide effective and timely interventions. This knowledge ensures that critical assessments are made promptly to prevent further harm to the patient and optimize outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a client with a cast on the lower extremities, the nurse should emphasize instructions about ambulating with crutches (Option C) as the correct factor to focus on. Ambulation with crutches is crucial for maintaining mobility, preventing complications like muscle atrophy or joint stiffness, and ensuring proper weight-bearing on the unaffected leg to avoid falls and injuries. This instruction directly addresses the immediate needs and challenges faced by the client with a lower extremity cast. Option A, the importance of following a regular diet, is not as relevant to the immediate care needs of a client with a lower extremity cast. While nutrition is important for overall health and healing, it is not the priority when considering the specific challenges of mobility and safety associated with a lower extremity cast. Option B, the use of prescribed analgesics to manage pain, is also important but does not address the client's physical mobility and safety concerns, which are more pressing in this scenario. Option D, the importance of regular exercise, is not suitable for a client with a lower extremity cast as they are limited in their ability to engage in regular exercise due to the immobilization of the limb. Emphasizing exercise in this context may lead to confusion and potential harm to the client. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the correct answer helps nurses prioritize care based on the client's immediate needs and condition. By focusing on ambulation with crutches, nurses can ensure that clients with lower extremity casts receive appropriate guidance for safe movement and recovery, ultimately promoting better outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Compound. A compound fracture, also known as an open fracture, is defined as a fracture in which damage not only involves the bone but also the skin or mucous membranes. This type of fracture poses a higher risk of infection due to the exposure of the internal tissues to the external environment. Option A) Pathologic fractures are caused by an underlying disease weakening the bone, not necessarily involving damage to the skin or mucous membranes. Option B) Compression fractures occur when bone is crushed or collapses, typically seen in conditions like osteoporosis, without necessarily involving damage to the skin. Option C) Depressed fractures involve a portion of the skull being pushed inwards, commonly seen in head injuries, and do not necessarily involve damage to the skin or mucous membranes. In an educational context, understanding the different types of fractures is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide appropriate care and treatment. Knowledge of compound fractures is essential due to the increased risk of complications such as infection, which can impact the overall management and outcomes for the patient. It is important for nurses and healthcare providers to quickly recognize and appropriately respond to compound fractures to prevent further complications and promote optimal healing.