On the first encounter with the patient, the nurse will complete a general survey. Which features are included (select all that apply)?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the importance of conducting a thorough general survey during the initial patient encounter is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In this context, the correct answer is option A) Mental state and behavior. Completing a general survey allows the nurse to assess the patient's overall condition and gather valuable information that can guide subsequent assessments and interventions. Mental state and behavior are key components of the general survey as they provide insights into the patient's cognitive function, emotional state, and overall mental well-being. This information is essential for detecting any signs of distress, confusion, or altered mental status that may impact the patient's ability to participate in their care or adhere to medication regimens. Options B) Lung sounds and bowel tones, C) Body temperature and pulses, and D) Speech and body movements are important aspects of a comprehensive assessment but are not typically included in the initial general survey. These assessments are usually performed later in the patient evaluation process to gather more specific data about the patient's respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind conducting a general survey underscores the importance of holistic patient assessment in pharmacology practice. It highlights the significance of considering not only physical health indicators but also mental and emotional well-being when providing pharmacological interventions. By prioritizing the assessment of mental state and behavior during the initial encounter, nurses can better tailor their care plans to address the patient's unique needs and promote positive health outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, patient education is crucial for promoting positive health outcomes. In the context of wound care, the best example of documentation would be option B) "The patient demonstrated correct technique of wound care following instruction." This option shows that the patient not only received information but also applied it correctly, indicating a higher level of understanding and competency in wound care management. Option A is vague and lacks specificity in demonstrating the patient's actual understanding and ability to perform wound care. Option C indicates verbal understanding but does not confirm if this understanding translates into practical application. Option D, while providing written instructions, does not confirm if the patient comprehended and correctly implemented the wound care techniques. In an educational context, emphasizing the importance of active demonstration and application of knowledge, as seen in option B, is key to ensuring effective patient teaching and improving patient outcomes in wound care management. It reinforces the principle of hands-on learning and skill development, which are vital aspects of pharmacological education and patient care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the leading causes of death in the United States is crucial for healthcare professionals to prioritize prevention and treatment strategies effectively. The correct answer is C) Coronary artery disease. This condition is the leading cause of death in the U.S. because it results from the buildup of plaque in the arteries supplying blood to the heart, leading to heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications. Option A) Cancer, while a significant cause of mortality, is not the leading cause in the U.S. Option B) Diabetes mellitus, though a serious chronic condition, primarily leads to complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease rather than directly causing death. Option D) Cerebrovascular accident (stroke) is a major cause of disability and death but ranks lower in frequency compared to coronary artery disease. Educationally, understanding the prevalence and impact of coronary artery disease highlights the importance of lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing risk factors like hypertension and high cholesterol. Pharmacological interventions, including lipid-lowering drugs and antiplatelet agents, play a vital role in preventing and managing coronary artery disease, making this knowledge essential for healthcare professionals.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) "I will need to ask my son to bring me into town every week for the test." This response indicates a potential barrier to the patient's ability to comply with the recommended weekly INR testing. This is because the patient is dependent on her son for transportation to the clinic, which may not always be reliable or feasible. Option A) "When I have the energy" is incorrect as it does not directly address the logistical issue of transportation to the clinic for testing. Option B) "I have taken the bus to get this test done" is incorrect as it shows past behavior but does not address the future need for consistent weekly testing. Option D) "Should I just keep taking the same pill every day until I can get a ride to town?" is incorrect as it reflects a lack of understanding of the importance of regular INR monitoring for warfarin therapy. In the context of pharmacology education, it is crucial to emphasize the significance of adherence to monitoring requirements for medications like warfarin. Understanding barriers to compliance, such as transportation issues, is essential in ensuring patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes. Educating patients on the importance of regular monitoring and helping them overcome logistical challenges can improve medication adherence and overall health outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Monitoring for drug interactions. This is a crucial nursing intervention to prevent problems caused by multiple drug use in older patients because older adults are more susceptible to adverse drug reactions and drug interactions due to changes in their metabolism and physiology. Monitoring for drug interactions involves assessing the potential for harmful interactions between different medications that a patient is taking, and taking appropriate action to prevent or minimize these risks. Now, let's discuss why the other options are incorrect: A) Medication reconciliation is important for ensuring that patients are receiving the correct medications, but it is more of a documentation and verification process rather than a proactive intervention to prevent problems caused by multiple drug use. B) Patient education regarding side effects is valuable in promoting medication adherence and awareness, but it does not directly address the issue of preventing problems stemming from multiple drug use. C) Regular review of medication regimens is essential to ensure that the medications are still appropriate for the patient's current condition, but it may not be as specific as monitoring for drug interactions in preventing problems arising from polypharmacy. In an educational context, it is important for nursing students and healthcare professionals to understand the complexities of managing medications in older adults, especially when they are taking multiple drugs. Emphasizing the significance of monitoring for drug interactions can help prevent adverse events and ensure safe medication management in this vulnerable population.