Take home medications given to Patient Lily includes digitalis therapy which was given to patient since she was pregnant. Which of the following would the nurse anticipate with patient's drug therapy?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Digitalis therapy, commonly prescribed for heart conditions, is known for its narrow therapeutic range and potential for toxicity. In the case of Patient Lily, who has been on digitalis therapy since she was pregnant, the nurse would anticipate the continuation of the same dosage to maintain the therapeutic effects and reduce the risks of toxicity. It is essential to monitor the patient's digitalis levels regularly and adjust the dosage if necessary based on the patient's response and any changes in their clinical status. Switching to a more potent drug, changing the medication, or adding a diuretic would not be appropriate without further assessment and consultation with the healthcare provider managing Lily's digitalis therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: As a nurse manager, the most effective way to let the staff imbibe the culture of quality at the health center is to become a role model. Leading by example is a powerful way to influence behavior and attitudes within a team. By demonstrating a commitment to quality in your own work, behavior, and decision-making, you set a positive example for your staff to follow. This proactive approach creates a culture of quality that is more likely to be embraced by the team as they see it being consistently demonstrated by their leader. This can result in improved staff morale, motivation, and overall performance in delivering quality care to patients. Additionally, being a role model fosters trust and respect among the staff, which is essential for building a strong team dynamic centered around quality healthcare delivery.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Non-maleficence is the ethical principle that emphasizes the obligation to avoid causing harm to patients. In this scenario, the ER nurse clarifies the doctor's prescription to ensure the correct dosage of the pain medication based on the pain scale assessment and the patient's age. By doing so, the nurse is ensuring that the medication is safe and effective for the patient, thus adhering to the principle of non-maleficence. This action demonstrates the nurse's commitment to preventing harm and promoting the well-being of the patient through proper medication management.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When giving health teaching to the mother on how to manage the patient at home, emphasizing the need for emotional support is crucial. Taking care of a patient at home can be emotionally taxing, and the mother needs to be aware of the importance of providing emotional support to the patient. This can greatly impact the patient's overall well-being and recovery. By emphasizing the need for emotional support, the mother can create a conducive and supportive environment for the patient to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally. It also helps foster a sense of connection and positivity, which is beneficial for the patient's overall health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for the palliative nurse to prioritize in this situation is to arrange for family members or loved ones to be present at the patient's bedside. Having loved ones nearby can provide emotional support, comfort, and reassurance to the patient during their final moments. This can help alleviate the fear and anxiety the patient is experiencing about dying alone. Additionally, it can contribute to a sense of connectedness and peace for both the patient and their loved ones during this challenging time. Offering practical solutions to address the patient's emotional needs is key in providing holistic palliative care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A nurse can be charged with negligence when they give the patient the wrong medication. Negligence in healthcare typically refers to a situation where a healthcare provider fails to provide a standard level of care, resulting in harm to the patient. Giving the wrong medication can lead to serious consequences for the patient, including adverse reactions, worsening of the condition, or even death. It is a clear violation of the duty of care that a nurse owes to their patients, and such a mistake can have legal and professional repercussions for the nurse.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate action for a concerned nurse when nurses are projected as sex symbols in a television advertisement is to make a position paper to denounce the advertisement. This approach allows the nurse to voice their concerns in a formal and professional manner. By creating a position paper, the nurse can clearly outline why the portrayal is inappropriate and advocate for more respectful representations of nursing in the media. This action is constructive, proactive, and focuses on initiating change through advocacy and education. It is a thoughtful and strategic way to address the issue and raise awareness about the importance of respecting the nursing profession.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Patients with hypothyroidism have a decreased ability to regulate their body temperature due to the reduced hormone levels. Exposure to cold temperatures can exacerbate this issue and lead to symptoms such as cold intolerance, feeling cold all the time, and potentially even hypothermia. It is important for patients with hypothyroidism to avoid prolonged exposure to cold temperatures to prevent any negative impact on their health.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When admitting a patient to the unit after abdominal surgery, the initial priority assessment performed by the nurse should focus on assessing the patient's respiratory function and airway. This is crucial because post-surgical patients are at risk for complications such as respiratory depression, atelectasis, and airway obstruction. Monitoring the patient's breathing pattern, oxygen saturation levels, and ensuring a patent airway are essential in preventing respiratory distress or failure. Prompt assessment and intervention in this area can help prevent respiratory complications and ensure the patient's safety and well-being. Once the patient's respiratory status is stable, the nurse can then proceed to assess other aspects such as the surgical site, skin color, temperature, and responsiveness to stimuli.