How can manual handling be minimized?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of basic nursing care needs of the patient, minimizing manual handling is crucial to prevent injuries to both patients and healthcare workers. The correct answer, D) By ensuring suitable mechanical aids and training are available to employees, is the most appropriate choice. This is because providing proper mechanical aids, such as hoists or transfer belts, and training on how to use them effectively can significantly reduce the need for manual handling and decrease the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Option A) By providing personal protective equipment to all employees when using mechanical aids, is incorrect because personal protective equipment is not sufficient to minimize manual handling. While PPE can protect against certain hazards, it does not address the root cause of manual handling injuries. Option B) By ensuring there is enough staff to help with very heavy manual handling tasks, is also incorrect as relying solely on increasing staff numbers is not a sustainable solution. It is more effective to focus on reducing manual handling through the use of proper equipment and techniques. Option C) By buying items in bulk so that mechanical machinery can be used at all times, is not a valid approach to minimizing manual handling. Bulk purchasing may not always be feasible or necessary, and it does not directly address the need for appropriate mechanical aids and training. In an educational context, it is essential to teach healthcare professionals about the importance of safe manual handling practices and the role of mechanical aids in reducing the risk of injuries. By emphasizing the use of proper equipment and providing comprehensive training, healthcare workers can effectively minimize manual handling and ensure the safety and well-being of both themselves and their patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) The presence of an invasive indwelling device and the degree of any underlying illness, as these are significant risk factors for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in older patients. Invasive devices like urinary catheters or central lines can introduce pathogens into the body, increasing infection risk. Additionally, underlying illnesses weaken the immune system, making older adults more susceptible to infections. Option A is less relevant as the presence of invasive devices and underlying illnesses pose a higher infection risk than the length of hospital stay or ward transfers. Option C is incorrect because exposure to infected patients is a risk factor, but not as significant as the presence of invasive devices and underlying illnesses. Option D is also incorrect as being bedbound affects mobility but is not as directly related to infection risk as invasive devices and underlying illness. In an educational context, understanding these risk factors is crucial for nurses providing care to older patients to implement appropriate infection prevention strategies, such as proper catheter care, hand hygiene, and monitoring for signs of infection. Nurses must also educate patients and families on infection prevention measures to ensure patient safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of basic nursing care needs of the patient, understanding transitional care is crucial for providing comprehensive care. The correct answer is D) Transitional care is most impactful in high-risk patients with complex medical issues. This statement is true because transitional care aims to ensure a smooth transition for patients from one healthcare setting to another, especially for those at high risk with complex medical conditions. Option A is incorrect because even though nursing homes have healthcare professionals, transitional care is still essential to coordinate the transfer of care effectively. Option B is incorrect as transitional care actually begins before the patient reaches the next destination of care to ensure continuity and prevent gaps in care. Option C is incorrect as transitional care is time-limited and typically involves a structured plan for a specific duration post-discharge. Educationally, understanding transitional care is vital for nursing students as it emphasizes the importance of continuity of care, patient safety, and interdisciplinary collaboration. By grasping the significance of transitional care, nurses can better advocate for their patients' needs during transitions between healthcare settings, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing readmission rates.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The most appropriate meal plan to suggest for a client placed on a sodium-restricted diet after a myocardial infarction is option D. This meal plan includes 3 oz. of turkey, 1 fresh sweet potato, 1/2 cup of fresh green beans, milk, and 1 orange. The correct answer is D because it contains foods that are low in sodium, which is crucial for a client with a history of myocardial infarction to prevent complications like hypertension and fluid retention. Turkey is a lean protein choice, and fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally low in sodium. Milk is also a good source of calcium without added sodium. Option A includes a baked potato which is high in sodium, and canned beets also tend to be high in sodium due to the canning process. Option B includes canned salmon which may have added sodium for preservation. Option C includes bologna, which is a processed meat high in sodium, and apple juice is often high in added sugars. In an educational context, it's important for nurses to teach patients about the importance of following a sodium-restricted diet post-myocardial infarction to promote heart health. Providing clear and accurate dietary guidance can help prevent complications and support the patient in their recovery journey.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of administering anesthesia, the Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) of an anesthetic agent like isoflurane is an important measure of its potency. Lowering the MAC of an anesthetic agent is beneficial as it indicates a lower concentration is needed to achieve the desired effect. In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Symptomatic hyponatremia. Symptomatic hyponatremia, which is a condition of low sodium levels in the blood, can decrease the MAC of isoflurane. This is because hyponatremia can alter the sensitivity of the central nervous system to anesthetics, making patients more sensitive to the effects of isoflurane and thus requiring a lower concentration for anesthesia. Now, let's examine why the other options are incorrect: A) Acute cocaine intoxication: Cocaine intoxication can actually increase the MAC of isoflurane due to its stimulant effects on the central nervous system. B) Chronic ethanol abuse: Ethanol abuse does not have a direct impact on the MAC of isoflurane. D) Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism is not known to decrease the MAC of isoflurane. Understanding the factors that can influence the MAC of anesthetics is crucial for healthcare providers, especially those working in anesthesia or critical care settings. Being able to identify conditions that can alter anesthetic requirements ensures safe and effective patient care during surgical procedures.