Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Malnourished individuals are at higher risk of severe complications from cold exposure due to their weakened immune system and decreased ability to regulate body temperature. This places them at a greater risk of hypothermia and other cold-related conditions, making them the most vulnerable group in need of shelter. Choice A is not the most critical as the injury is from 3 weeks ago and should have received appropriate medical care by now. Choice B, a young person with diabetes mellitus, while vulnerable, can manage their condition with proper medication and care. Choice C, a middle-aged person with hypertension, may need monitoring but is less susceptible to immediate harm from cold exposure compared to a malnourished individual.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: explain that the client should stay home for the next few days. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious, and the client should avoid close contact with others until it resolves. Returning to work while still contagious can lead to the spread of the infection to coworkers and customers. Choice A is incorrect because wearing a face mask may not provide sufficient protection against spreading the virus in a close work environment. Choice B is irrelevant to the situation as the focus should be on the client's health and preventing the spread of the infection. Choice C is also unrelated to the management of viral conjunctivitis and does not address the contagious nature of the condition.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: lower relapse rate among participants. A lower relapse rate indicates that participants are successfully quitting smoking and maintaining their cessation, which is the ultimate goal of a smoking cessation program. Increased attendance at support group meetings (choice A) may demonstrate engagement but does not necessarily indicate successful smoking cessation. Similarly, higher sales of nicotine replacement products (choice C) may reflect increased product usage but not necessarily successful smoking cessation. While reducing the number of cigarettes smoked per day (choice B) is a positive change, it does not guarantee successful smoking cessation or long-term abstinence.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Weight loss of 5 pounds in one week in a client with hyperthyroidism is concerning as it may indicate severe hypermetabolism, leading to potential complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and other metabolic disturbances. Rapid weight loss in hyperthyroidism indicates an accelerated metabolic rate and increased energy expenditure, which can be detrimental to the client's health. The other assessment findings (heart rate of 100 beats per minute, blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg, respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute) are commonly seen in clients with hyperthyroidism and may not necessarily require immediate intervention unless they are significantly outside the normal range or causing distress to the client.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: applying a prosthetic device. Home health aides are trained and authorized to assist with the application and management of prosthetic devices for clients. Evaluating a pressure sore (choice A) requires clinical assessment and judgment typically performed by a licensed healthcare provider such as a nurse. Performing a sterile dressing change (choice C) involves aseptic technique and wound care skills that are usually performed by licensed healthcare professionals. Assessing the client's need for an elevated toilet seat (choice D) involves a level of assessment and decision-making that is beyond the scope of practice for a home health aide.