Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Assessing the patient for respiratory distress is the important nursing intervention that must be done in this situation. The scenario provided indicates that the patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is experiencing increased work of breathing, which puts them at risk for respiratory distress. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor the patient's respiratory status closely, including assessing their oxygen saturations, respiratory rate, and effort, to identify any signs of respiratory distress early and intervene promptly. This proactive assessment can help prevent further deterioration of the patient's condition and ensure appropriate nursing interventions are implemented promptly.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse who uses appropriate therapeutic listening skills will display the best behavior by absorbing both the content and the feeling which the patient is conveying. In the given scenario, Belle is experiencing a range of symptoms due to her mental health issues, trauma, and past experiences. By actively listening and absorbing both the content (symptoms, concerns) and the feelings (depressed mood, worry, irritability) which Belle is conveying, the nurse can demonstrate empathy, understanding, and validation of Belle's experiences. This type of therapeutic listening helps to build trust, rapport, and a supportive therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the patient, which is crucial for effective communication, assessment, and treatment in mental health care settings.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for the palliative nurse to prioritize in this situation is to arrange for family members or loved ones to be present at the patient's bedside. Having loved ones nearby can provide emotional support, comfort, and reassurance to the patient during their final moments. This can help alleviate the fear and anxiety the patient is experiencing about dying alone. Additionally, it can contribute to a sense of connectedness and peace for both the patient and their loved ones during this challenging time. Offering practical solutions to address the patient's emotional needs is key in providing holistic palliative care.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Confirming the patient's informed consent before the procedure is the most crucial action for the nurse to prioritize to ensure procedural safety during a thoracentesis. Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement that ensures the patient understands the purpose of the procedure, its potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. By confirming informed consent, the nurse ensures that the patient has the necessary information and has willingly agreed to undergo the procedure. This process promotes patient autonomy, prevents misunderstandings, and reduces the likelihood of legal issues related to the procedure. Additionally, verifying informed consent helps establish a foundation of trust between the healthcare team and the patient. While other actions like positioning the patient correctly and ensuring pre-procedure antibiotics may also contribute to the safety of the procedure, obtaining informed consent is the foundational step that must be prioritized.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The laboratory test used to monitor the therapeutic effect of warfarin therapy is the International Normalized Ratio (INR). Warfarin is a commonly prescribed anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the action of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Maintaining the INR within the target range specific to the indication for anticoagulation (e.g., DVT prevention or treatment) is essential to balance the risk of bleeding and clotting.