In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), participants are randomly assigned to either the experimental or the control group to:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Minimize selection bias. Random assignment in an RCT helps ensure that participants in the experimental and control groups are similar at baseline. This minimizes the risk of selection bias, where certain characteristics of participants influence study outcomes. Choice A is incorrect because the purpose of random assignment is not specifically to test treatment effectiveness but to minimize bias. Choice C is incorrect because random assignment does not directly increase sample size. Choice D is incorrect because providing a baseline measurement is not the primary purpose of random assignment in an RCT.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because in a warm environment, the body needs to cool itself to maintain a stable internal temperature. This process is called thermoregulation. Sweating and vasodilation are mechanisms the body uses to release heat and cool down. Choice B is incorrect as the body does not need to warm itself in a warm environment. Choices C and D are incomplete and do not offer a logical explanation related to the situation given.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for choice C being correct: 1. ARDS patients have increased capillary permeability leading to fluid leakage into the lungs. 2. Mild fluid restriction helps prevent fluid overload and pulmonary edema. 3. Diuretics help manage any excess fluid accumulation. 4. Hydration using colloids (choice A) can exacerbate fluid overload. 5. Surfactant (choice B) is used in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, not ARDS. 6. Keeping hemoglobin level >12 g/dL (choice D) is unrelated to fluid balance in ARDS.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Review the events leading up to each medication administration error. This strategy is the most critical initial step in addressing medication administration errors. By conducting a thorough review of the events leading up to each error, the committee can identify root causes and contributing factors, allowing for targeted interventions to prevent similar errors in the future. This approach aligns with the principles of continuous quality improvement (CQI) by focusing on understanding the underlying issues before implementing solutions. Choice A: Providing an inservice on medication administration to all nurses may be beneficial, but without understanding the specific factors contributing to errors, the impact may be limited. Choice B: Requiring staff nurses to pass a medication administration examination focuses on individual competency, which is important but not as effective as addressing system issues that contribute to errors. Choice D: Developing a quality improvement program for nurses involved in errors is necessary but should come after identifying and addressing the root causes of errors through a comprehensive review process.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Respite care. Respite care provides temporary relief for the primary caregiver, allowing them time to attend to their own needs and errands. This support can help prevent caregiver burnout and ensure the client receives consistent care. Hospice care (A) is not appropriate as the client is not in end-of-life care. Restorative care (B) focuses on rehabilitation, which is not the primary concern in this case. Mental health care (C) may be beneficial but does not directly address the caregiver's need for time off.