Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The priority item that should be placed at the newborn's bedside is a blood pressure cuff. Monitoring the newborn's blood pressure is crucial in the NICU, as it helps assess the baby's cardiovascular function and overall well-being. Blood pressure changes can be an early indication of potential health issues, so having a blood pressure cuff readily available allows for timely monitoring and intervention if necessary. The other items listed (specific gravity urinometer, rectal thermometer, bottle of sterile normal saline) are also important in neonatal care, but monitoring blood pressure takes precedence in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Erythema multiforme is a skin condition characterized by the sudden onset of a target-like rash with concentric erythematous rings and central clearing on the trunk and extremities. It typically presents with a distinctive "iris" or "bull's eye" pattern. Erythema multiforme is often triggered by exposure to certain medications, such as antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and other drugs. The rash is usually accompanied by symptoms like fever, malaise, and joint pain. It is important to identify and discontinue the offending medication causing the reaction in cases of drug-induced erythema multiforme.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most likely causative agent in this scenario is Plasmodium falciparum, a protozoan parasite that causes malaria. The patient's symptoms of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia align with the typical presentation of malaria. Additionally, the presence of intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination is characteristic of Plasmodium species, particularly P. falciparum, which causes the most severe form of malaria.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Knowing the prevalence of diseases provides information on the magnitude of health problems within a community. Prevalence refers to the proportion of individuals in a population who have a particular disease or condition at a specific point in time. By understanding the prevalence rates of different diseases, healthcare providers can better assess the extent of health issues affecting the community. This information is crucial for prioritizing resources and interventions to address the most pressing health concerns effectively. Additionally, prevalence data can guide public health efforts in developing targeted prevention strategies and allocating resources appropriately to improve community health outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Confirming the patient's informed consent before the procedure is the most crucial action for the nurse to prioritize to ensure procedural safety during a thoracentesis. Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement that ensures the patient understands the purpose of the procedure, its potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. By confirming informed consent, the nurse ensures that the patient has the necessary information and has willingly agreed to undergo the procedure. This process promotes patient autonomy, prevents misunderstandings, and reduces the likelihood of legal issues related to the procedure. Additionally, verifying informed consent helps establish a foundation of trust between the healthcare team and the patient. While other actions like positioning the patient correctly and ensuring pre-procedure antibiotics may also contribute to the safety of the procedure, obtaining informed consent is the foundational step that must be prioritized.