How will you prepare a patient for thoracic surgery?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Preparing a patient for thoracic surgery involves a comprehensive approach to ensure optimal outcomes. The correct answer is D) All of the above. Pre-operative teaching is essential to inform the patient about the surgical procedure, what to expect during recovery, and how to participate in their own care post-surgery. Respiratory exercises are crucial to optimize lung function, prevent post-operative complications like atelectasis or pneumonia, and promote quicker recovery. Nutritional support is important to ensure the patient is well-nourished before surgery, which can improve wound healing, immune function, and overall recovery. Option A) Pre-operative teaching is crucial in empowering the patient to actively participate in their care, reduce anxiety, and improve outcomes. Option B) Respiratory exercises specifically target the respiratory system, which is vital for thoracic surgeries that can impact lung function. Option C) Nutritional support is important, but alone may not adequately prepare a patient for thoracic surgery without addressing other aspects like education and respiratory function. In an educational context, understanding the holistic approach to preparing a patient for thoracic surgery is essential for healthcare providers. Teaching patients about their upcoming surgery, engaging them in respiratory exercises, and ensuring proper nutrition are key components of pre-operative care that can positively impact surgical outcomes and patient recovery.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Intermittent claudication is the crampy pain in the extremities that develops with little exertion due to arterial insufficiency. This is the correct answer (C) because it directly reflects the characteristic symptom associated with intermittent claudication, which is caused by inadequate blood flow to the muscles during exercise due to narrowed arteries. Option A is incorrect because it describes an embolism, not intermittent claudication. Option B is incorrect as it describes edema, a condition related to fluid accumulation, not arterial insufficiency. Option D is incorrect as it describes cyanosis, a bluish discoloration due to poor oxygenation, not the pain associated with intermittent claudication. In an educational context, understanding the symptoms of intermittent claudication is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working with patients at risk for peripheral artery disease. Recognizing this symptom can lead to early detection and appropriate management, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) emphasize foods that are low in sodium. This option is the most appropriate because it directly addresses the goal of helping Mr. Owens comply with his 5-g sodium diet. By emphasizing foods that are low in sodium, the nurse is providing a practical and sustainable solution for Mr. Owens to manage his sodium intake effectively. Option A) asking his wife to add no salt when cooking may not be feasible or realistic for Mr. Owens and his family. It may lead to dissatisfaction with meals and non-compliance with the diet. Option B) telling him that salt substitutes are readily available is not the best choice as salt substitutes may contain potassium which can be harmful to individuals with certain health conditions. Option C) suggesting he salt his food lightly is also not ideal as it does not align with the strict 5-g sodium diet requirement. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of individualized dietary recommendations and the role of healthcare professionals in providing practical guidance to patients. It emphasizes the significance of promoting healthy eating habits while considering the specific needs and limitations of each patient. By choosing the correct answer, students learn the importance of tailored interventions in promoting patient adherence to dietary restrictions for better health outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate response to explain cardiogenic shock to Mr. Payer is option C: "Her heart right now is unable to pump enough blood and oxygen to her body tissues." This response is correct because it directly addresses the physiological aspect of cardiogenic shock, which is the heart's inability to effectively pump blood to meet the body's needs. By providing this explanation, Mr. Payer can better understand the root cause of the condition and its implications for his wife's health. Option A is incorrect because it lacks clarity and does not provide any information about the medical condition. Option B is incorrect as it is vague and does not specifically mention the insufficient pumping of blood by the heart. Option D is also incorrect as it is not relevant to the situation at hand and does not address Mr. Payer's need for information about cardiogenic shock. Educationally, this question serves to assess the learner's understanding of cardiogenic shock and their ability to communicate complex medical concepts in a clear and empathetic manner. By selecting the correct response, learners demonstrate their knowledge of cardiovascular physiology and their capacity to effectively communicate medical information to patients and their families.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the acute phase of a severe pulmonary embolism, the priority goal of nursing care is to treat shock and sustain life, making option A the correct answer. This is because a pulmonary embolism can lead to a sudden decrease in blood flow to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening condition. Nurses must focus on stabilizing the patient's condition by addressing shock, ensuring adequate oxygenation, and supporting vital functions. Option B, instructing about treatment to be followed, is incorrect for this question as immediate life-saving interventions take precedence over patient education in the acute phase of a severe pulmonary embolism. Option C, stressing the importance of follow-up, and option D, counseling regarding prevention of recurrence, are also incorrect as they are more relevant in the post-acute phase of care once the patient's immediate condition has been stabilized. In an educational context, understanding the priorities of nursing care in different phases of a health crisis like a pulmonary embolism is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. By prioritizing interventions to address the most critical needs first, nurses can optimize patient outcomes and improve the chances of recovery. This question highlights the importance of rapid assessment and intervention in emergency situations to ensure the best possible patient outcomes.