Joan asks you why she is being administered so many arterial blood gas tests. You respond by saying

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D) This test determines how well your tissues are oxygenated. Arterial blood gas (ABG) tests are crucial in assessing a patient's oxygenation status. They provide information on the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the blood's acidity (pH) and bicarbonate levels. In Joan's case, these tests are likely being done to monitor her oxygen levels, especially if she has a condition affecting her respiratory system or if she is on oxygen therapy. Option A) This test determines if your liver and kidneys are functioning properly is incorrect because ABG tests do not assess liver and kidney function. Tests like liver function tests and renal function tests are specifically designed for that purpose. Option B) This test determines if you have sufficient WBC to fight infection is incorrect because ABG tests do not measure white blood cell levels. A complete blood count (CBC) is used to evaluate white blood cell count. Option C) This test determines if you are hyperglycemic, which is a side effect of your medication is incorrect because ABG tests do not measure blood glucose levels. Blood glucose tests like fasting blood sugar or HbA1c are used to monitor glucose levels in the blood. In an educational context, understanding the purpose of different diagnostic tests is essential for providing quality patient care. Educating patients like Joan about the reasons behind specific tests can help them feel more involved in their care and improve their overall health literacy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of postoperative care, monitoring for atelectasis in patients returning from the operating room is crucial because of the increased risk associated with immobility, anesthesia, and inadequate deep breathing. Option A is correct because immobility can lead to decreased lung expansion and secretion clearance, anesthesia can depress respiratory drive and impair cough reflex, and lack of deep breathing can result in collapsed alveoli, all contributing to the development of atelectasis. Option B is incorrect because while postoperative patients are indeed at risk for various complications, not all of them are at risk for infection specifically. Option C is incorrect because receiving too much oxygen during surgery is not a common cause of atelectasis; in fact, oxygen therapy is often used to prevent atelectasis. Option D is also incorrect because postoperative patients typically receive adequate oxygenation during surgery, and inadequate oxygen delivery is not a primary cause of atelectasis in this context. Educationally, understanding the pathophysiology of atelectasis postoperatively is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to implement appropriate preventive measures such as early mobilization, incentive spirometry, and respiratory exercises to reduce the risk of lung collapse and promote optimal postoperative recovery. Monitoring for atelectasis allows for early detection and prompt intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the incidence of respiratory complications following surgery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Schizophrenia. Hearing voices is a classic symptom of schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder characterized by disturbances in thoughts, perceptions, and behaviors. Individuals with schizophrenia may experience hallucinations, such as hearing voices, which are not based in reality. Option A) Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood swings between mania and depression, but hearing voices is not a typical symptom of bipolar disorder. Option C) Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by sudden and repeated attacks of fear, but it does not typically involve hearing voices. Option D) Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating and purging behaviors, and it is not associated with hearing voices. Educationally, understanding the symptoms and signs of various mental health disorders is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately assess and provide appropriate care for their patients. Recognizing the hallmark symptoms of schizophrenia, such as auditory hallucinations, is essential for early detection and intervention to improve outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Administer thrombolytic agent (TPA) since this is within 3 hours of the cerebrovascular accident (CVA). When a patient experiences sudden confusion and slurred speech, these can be indicative of a stroke. Administering a thrombolytic agent like TPA within the critical 3-hour window can help dissolve the clot causing the stroke, potentially minimizing long-term damage and improving outcomes. Option A is incorrect because focusing on the type of cerebral vasospasm is not the immediate priority when a patient is exhibiting signs of a stroke. Option C is wrong as telling the patient to go home and wait can lead to delayed treatment, impacting the patient's prognosis. Option D is also incorrect as immediate medical intervention is crucial in cases of suspected stroke to prevent further damage. Educationally, understanding the time-sensitive nature of stroke symptoms and the importance of rapid intervention is critical for healthcare professionals. Recognizing the signs of a stroke and knowing the appropriate actions to take can save lives and prevent long-term disabilities. This question highlights the significance of prompt assessment and treatment in emergency situations.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of assessing skin lesions, the correct answer is C) Elevation. When evaluating skin lesions for potential malignancy, the ABCDE rule is a crucial mnemonic to remember. Elevation refers to whether the lesion is raised or flat, which can provide important clues about its nature. An elevated lesion may indicate a potential issue that requires further investigation. Now, let's analyze why the other options are incorrect: A) Edema: Edema refers to swelling caused by fluid retention and is not a typical characteristic used in the assessment of skin lesions for potential malignancy. B) Erythema: Erythema refers to redness of the skin, which can be a sign of inflammation or infection but is not specifically part of the ABCDE rule for assessing skin lesions. D) Ever-changing: While changes in a skin lesion over time are important to monitor, this is not specifically part of the ABCDE rule for initial assessment. Educational context: Understanding how to assess skin lesions is vital for healthcare professionals, especially in identifying potentially malignant lesions early. The ABCDE rule provides a systematic approach to evaluating skin changes and determining the need for further investigation or intervention. By mastering these assessment techniques, healthcare providers can enhance patient outcomes through early detection and treatment of skin conditions.