For a patient who is experiencing side effects of radiation therapy, which task would be the most appropriate to delegate to the nursing assistant?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate task to delegate to the nursing assistant is option C, which is to report the amount and type of food consumed from the tray. This task is suitable for delegation as it involves basic observation and documentation skills without requiring specialized knowledge or critical decision-making. Option A, assisting the patient to identify patterns of fatigue, involves a higher level of assessment and understanding of the patient's condition, which should be done by a licensed healthcare provider. Option B, recommending participation in a walking program, involves providing medical advice and guidance, which is beyond the scope of practice for a nursing assistant. Option D, checking the skin for redness and irritation after treatment, involves assessing for potential side effects of radiation therapy, which requires knowledge of skin changes related to radiation and the ability to recognize concerning findings, making it more appropriate for a licensed healthcare provider to perform. Educationally, it is essential for healthcare providers to understand the scope of practice for different members of the healthcare team to ensure safe and effective patient care. Delegation is a crucial skill that requires careful consideration of the task, the person performing it, and the patient's condition to optimize outcomes and promote patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of a patient undergoing chemotherapy and being monitored for tumor lysis syndrome, electrolytes require particular attention. Tumor lysis syndrome is characterized by a rapid release of intracellular contents into the bloodstream, leading to metabolic disturbances, including hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, and hyperuricemia. Monitoring electrolyte levels is crucial to detect and manage these imbalances promptly to prevent complications like cardiac arrhythmias, renal failure, and seizures. Platelet count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit are important parameters to monitor in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, but they are not specifically indicative of tumor lysis syndrome. Platelet count is essential for assessing bleeding risk, while hemoglobin and hematocrit levels provide information about the patient's oxygen-carrying capacity. However, in the context of tumor lysis syndrome, electrolyte abnormalities are a more immediate concern due to their potential to cause life-threatening complications. Educationally, understanding the significance of electrolyte monitoring in tumor lysis syndrome highlights the importance of recognizing and managing oncologic emergencies. It emphasizes the need for vigilant assessment and intervention to prevent serious consequences associated with metabolic imbalances in these high-risk patients. This knowledge is essential for nurses and healthcare providers caring for oncology patients to ensure timely and appropriate interventions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is Weakness, dizziness, abdominal distention, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (B). Hypernatremia occurs when there is an excess of sodium in the body, often due to dehydration or excessive salt intake. Symptoms include gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological symptoms like confusion and dizziness, and muscle weakness.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Water restriction. Hyponatremia is a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, often caused by excessive water intake without adequate electrolyte replenishment. Ecstasy, a drug that can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, likely contributed to Rob's hyponatremia. Water restriction helps manage hyponatremia by preventing further dilution of sodium levels in the blood. Option B) 0.33% sodium chloride intravenously is incorrect because adding more sodium without restricting water intake can exacerbate hyponatremia. Option C) Use of salt substitute is incorrect as it may not provide the appropriate balance of electrolytes needed to correct hyponatremia. Option D) Calcium carbonate orally is unrelated to treating hyponatremia and would not address the underlying electrolyte imbalance. From an educational perspective, this question highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between drug use, electrolyte imbalances, and appropriate treatment interventions. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to assess both the clinical presentation and underlying causes of electrolyte abnormalities to provide effective care for patients like Rob.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the field of pharmacology, understanding age-related changes in the pulmonary system is crucial for providing safe and effective care to adult patients. The correct answer, "D) A modest, gradual decline in pulmonary function," aligns with the expected physiological changes that occur in the respiratory system as individuals age. As people grow older, there is a natural decline in lung elasticity, reduction in chest wall compliance, and weakening of respiratory muscles. These changes lead to a decreased lung capacity and efficiency in gas exchange. The gradual decline in pulmonary function is a normal part of the aging process and does not necessarily indicate a pathology. Option A, "Significant airway obstruction," is incorrect because while older adults may experience some degree of airway narrowing due to structural changes, significant obstruction is not a typical age-related change in the absence of underlying respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Option B, "Shortness of breath," is a common symptom associated with various respiratory conditions but is not a universal age-related change in the pulmonary system. Option C, "Development of emphysema," is also incorrect as emphysema is a specific pathological condition often linked to factors such as smoking and environmental exposures, rather than a normal age-related change. Educationally, understanding the expected age-related changes in the pulmonary system helps healthcare providers differentiate between normal aging processes and pathological conditions, leading to improved patient assessment, management, and overall care for the adult population. By recognizing these changes, healthcare professionals can tailor pharmacological interventions and treatment plans to meet the specific needs of older patients.