Nurse Gayle is guided that the initial step of delegation is ______.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The initial step of delegation is to determine the competency level of the staff for the task being given. Before delegating a task, a nurse must assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the staff member to ensure that they are competent and capable of performing the task safely and effectively. This step is crucial in ensuring that tasks are delegated appropriately and that quality patient care is maintained. By determining the competency level of the staff, Nurse Gayle can make informed decisions about delegation, provide appropriate support and resources, and facilitate effective communication throughout the delegation process.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The assessment finding that is indicative of the diagnosis of hypertension is consistent evaluation of blood pressure. Hypertension is diagnosed based on repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Consistently high blood pressure readings, usually defined as systolic blood pressure consistently at or above 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure consistently at or above 90 mmHg, are a key factor in diagnosing hypertension. Family history of high blood pressure (Choice A), elevation of blood cholesterol level (Choice B), and a stressful work environment (Choice C) may be risk factors for hypertension but are not diagnostic criteria. In order to diagnose hypertension, healthcare providers rely on consistent measurement and evaluation of blood pressure over time.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Calcium carbonate should be taken with meals because it requires the presence of stomach acid to be properly absorbed. Taking it with meals helps ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness as a phosphate binder in patients with chronic kidney disease. Administering calcium carbonate on an empty stomach may lead to gastrointestinal side effects such as upset stomach, bloating, and constipation. Taking it with a full glass of water is also recommended to help prevent potential gastrointestinal issues and to ensure proper hydration. Crushing tablets before administration is not advised unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider, as it can alter the drug's release and absorption properties.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The symptoms described in the scenario - chest pain, dyspnea, and cyanosis - are indicative of a potential air embolism. Air embolism occurs when air enters the bloodstream, leading to blockages in blood vessels and impeding oxygen delivery to tissues. In patients receiving Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) through intravenous lines, the risk of air embolism exists during line manipulations, disconnections, or improper priming of the tubing. The sudden onset of symptoms like chest pain and cyanosis in a patient on TPN should raise suspicion for an air embolism, as it requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications such as cardiac arrest or stroke.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a patient with ARDS who is experiencing refractory hypoxemia despite maximal ventilatory support and prone positioning, the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a potentially life-saving adjunctive therapy. ECMO works by providing temporary support for gas exchange outside the body, allowing the lungs to rest and heal while providing adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal. The use of ECMO has been associated with improved oxygenation and reduced mortality in severe cases of ARDS, especially in patients who fail conventional therapies. High-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) has not consistently shown mortality benefit in ARDS, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is not directly indicated for hypoxemia in ARDS, and inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) has shown limited benefit in improving oxygenation in ARDS without a clear impact on mortality.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Establishing a regular routine can be very helpful in stabilizing the mental state of parents. Consistency and structure in day-to-day activities can provide a sense of predictability and control, which can help reduce anxiety and stress. By having a routine, the parents can feel more organized, efficient, and better equipped to manage their responsibilities and emotions. Additionally, a regular routine can promote better sleep patterns, healthier habits, and overall well-being. This measure is practical, achievable, and can have positive effects on the mental stability of Nurse Lailanie's parents.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a patient with severe abdominal pain due to end-stage pancreatic cancer, the priority intervention to manage their symptoms would be to provide adequate pain relief. Opioid analgesics are the cornerstone of pain management for cancer patients experiencing severe pain. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, thereby reducing the perception of pain. Opioids are highly effective in managing cancer pain, including abdominal pain, and can significantly improve the patient's quality of life by providing relief from distressing symptoms. Therefore, administering opioid analgesics should be the nurse's primary intervention in this case to address the patient's severe abdominal pain. Initiating enteral nutrition, recommending hot compresses, or referring to a gastroenterologist may be relevant interventions depending on the patient's overall care plan but addressing the pain should be the immediate priority in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nurse Nilda likely opted to review Erikson's psychosocial theory because completion of each developmental task in the theory results in a sense of competence and contributes to the development of a healthy personality. Erikson's theory outlines different stages of psychosocial development that individuals go through, with each stage presenting a specific conflict or challenge to be resolved. Successfully navigating and resolving these challenges at each stage leads to the development of essential strengths and virtues. For example, in Erikson's stage of industry versus inferiority (ages 6 to 11 years), successfully completing tasks related to school, sports, and social interactions can lead to a sense of competence and accomplishment. Conversely, failure to master these tasks can lead to feelings of inadequacy and inferiority. By understanding and applying Erikson's theory, Nurse Nilda can better support individuals in their development and help promote positive outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The initial treatment goal for a patient like Mila is often focused on preventing infection. Infection prevention is a basic and essential step in patient care, especially for someone who may be at risk due to their medical condition or treatment plan. By preventing infection, healthcare providers can help ensure the patient's safety and promote successful outcomes for the overall treatment plan. Correcting hypoxia, metabolic acidosis, and increasing myocardial oxygen supply may be important goals as well, but preventing infection is usually prioritized as it can have serious consequences if not addressed promptly.