Mr. C is an older patient with a known history of peripheral vascular disease. The nurse places a heating pad directly on the patient's lower leg to relieve muscle spasms. The heating pad causes a burn, the area becomes infected, and the patient eventually must have a skin graft. This is an example of which of the following?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Negligence refers to the failure to take proper care in doing something. In this scenario, the nurse failed to exercise the standard of care expected in placing a heating pad directly on Mr. C's lower leg, knowing his history of peripheral vascular disease. This failure led to a burn and subsequent infection that required a skin graft for treatment. The actions of the nurse were negligent as they did not meet the expected standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. This situation does not fit the definition of assault, malpractice, or vicarious liability, making negligence the most appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Long-term aspirin therapy, especially at higher doses, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Aspirin irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase enzyme, which is essential for the production of prostaglandins involved in mucosal protection of the gastrointestinal tract. Without these protective prostaglandins, the stomach lining becomes more susceptible to damage from gastric acid, leading to potential ulcer formation and bleeding. Patients with a history of coronary artery disease may be on aspirin for secondary prevention, and it is crucial to monitor for signs of bleeding such as black, tarry stools or abdominal pain. The benefits of aspirin in preventing cardiovascular events need to be weighed against the risk of adverse effects like gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in patients on long-term therapy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Carvedilol is a beta-blocker primarily used to manage heart failure and hypertension. Monitoring blood pressure closely during carvedilol therapy is crucial because it helps assess the drug's effectiveness in managing heart failure and controlling hypertension. Carvedilol works by blocking certain receptors in the heart and blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure. Monitoring blood pressure fluctuations allows healthcare providers to adjust the dosage accordingly to achieve optimal results and prevent potential complications in patients with heart failure. While monitoring blood glucose levels, serum potassium levels, and liver function tests are essential in managing other conditions or medications, the priority in a patient being prescribed carvedilol for heart failure is to monitor blood pressure levels.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer for a patient with COPD is to inhale slowly and deeply while pressing the canister. This technique helps ensure that the medication reaches the lungs effectively. Inhaling slowly and deeply allows the medication to be properly delivered to the airways, maximizing its effectiveness in treating the symptoms of COPD. This instruction helps the patient coordinate pressing the canister with their inhalation, which is crucial for proper medication delivery in COPD management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Tiotropium (Spiriva) is an anticholinergic bronchodilator used for the management of COPD. A common side effect of anticholinergic medications is dry mouth. Rinsing the mouth with water after using the inhaler can help reduce the risk of developing oral thrush or other mouth infections due to dryness. This instruction helps promote good oral hygiene and decreases the potential side effects associated with tiotropium inhaler use. This teaching is important for patients to follow to ensure their overall health and well-being while using the medication.