Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Scabies is caused by an infestation of the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. This parasitic mite burrows into the upper layer of the skin, where it lays eggs and causes intense itching and skin irritation. The transmission of scabies usually occurs through close and prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infested person. Unlike viruses, bacteria, and fungi, which are microorganisms that can also cause skin infections, scabies specifically refers to an infestation by a parasitic mite.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The patient's symptoms of watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea after consuming contaminated water from a stream during a camping trip suggest an infection caused by Cryptosporidium parvum. Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite that is commonly transmitted through contaminated water sources. Laboratory tests detecting oocysts in the stool sample are characteristic of Cryptosporidium infection.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In hypovolemic shock, isotonic electrolyte solutions are commonly used for fluid replacement to restore the circulating blood volume. The commonly used isotonic electrolyte solutions for this purpose are 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) and lactated Ringer's solution.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Beta-blockers are a class of medications commonly used to manage hypertension. One of the main mechanisms of action of beta-blockers is to reduce heart rate and contractility by blocking the beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart. As a result, one of the potential adverse effects of beta-blockers is bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate. Therefore, the nurse should closely monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of bradycardia when starting or adjusting the dose of a beta-blocker. Symptoms of bradycardia may include dizziness, fainting, fatigue, or shortness of breath. If bradycardia is severe or symptomatic, it may require dose adjustments or discontinuation of the beta-blocker to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should monitor the International Normalized Ratio (INR) closely during anticoagulant therapy for the prevention of VTE. The INR measures the clotting ability of the blood and is used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, such as warfarin. Maintaining the INR within the target therapeutic range is crucial to prevent both excessive bleeding due to over-anticoagulation and clotting events due to under-anticoagulation. Close monitoring of the INR helps healthcare providers adjust the anticoagulant dosage as needed to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and minimize risks. Platelet count, serum sodium levels, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) are important laboratory parameters to monitor for other medical conditions but are not specific to anticoagulant therapy.