The nurse informs the patient and family that rehabilitation prior to discharge is BEST described as______.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rehabilitation prior to discharge is best described as a period of ups and downs, physically and emotionally because it involves the recovery process after an illness, injury, or medical procedure. It is a challenging time where the patient may experience setbacks and improvements on their journey back to health. There can be physical challenges such as regaining strength and mobility, as well as emotional challenges like coping with the changes in their condition. Therefore, the rehabilitation process is often not smooth and can be a rollercoaster of progress and setbacks, both physically and emotionally.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) can be detected in the blood as early as 10 days after the last menstrual period. This hormone is produced by the placenta shortly after the embryo attaches to the uterine lining. Pregnancy tests detect HCG levels to determine pregnancy status, and the hormone can be detected earlier in the blood compared to urine tests. Detecting HCG in the blood at around 10 days post ovulation is often the earliest point when a blood test can confirm pregnancy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Record keeping involves several key steps such as structuring, securing, and storing information. However, easy disposal is not a step in record keeping. In fact, it is important to carefully consider the disposal of records in a secure and responsible manner to protect sensitive information and comply with relevant regulations. Proper disposal methods should be followed to ensure that records are not accessible to unauthorized individuals and that any sensitive information is properly destroyed to prevent misuse or breaches of privacy. Therefore, easy disposal is not a recommended practice in effective record keeping.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The best prevention management of contact latex allergy is to avoid latex products entirely. Latex allergies can range from mild skin irritation to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. This means that even applying lotion before using latex gloves may not be sufficient to prevent an allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitized to latex. It is important for individuals with latex allergy to completely avoid exposure to latex products, including rubberized goods, to prevent triggering an allergic response. Resigning from the job is not a practical solution and should not be necessary if proper precautions are taken to avoid latex exposure.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The patient's presentation of swelling of the ankles, dyspnea on exertion, and orthopnea is highly suggestive of heart failure. The echocardiogram findings of decreased left ventricular ejection fraction and dilated left ventricle are characteristic of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), also known as systolic heart failure. In this condition, the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised, leading to symptoms of congestion and decreased cardiac output. The decreased ejection fraction indicates that the heart is not able to efficiently pump out blood with each contraction. Dilatation of the left ventricle is a compensatory mechanism in response to increased volume overload.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a patient receiving palliative care for end-stage COPD expresses a desire to discuss advance care planning, the palliative nurse should initiate a conversation about advance directives and future care preferences. Advance care planning involves discussing and documenting a patient's preferences regarding future medical care, particularly in situations where the patient may no longer be able to make decisions. This discussion helps ensure that the patient's wishes are respected and followed in the event they are unable to communicate their preferences. By engaging in advance care planning discussions, the nurse can help the patient feel empowered, supported, and in control of their medical care decisions. It also allows healthcare providers to align care with the patient's values and goals, ultimately improving quality of life and ensuring dignity at the end of life.

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: B

Rationale: The primary purpose of interdisciplinary collaboration in nursing practice is to improve communication and coordination of patient care. When healthcare providers from different disciplines work together as a team, they can share their unique perspectives, knowledge, and skills to develop comprehensive care plans that address all aspects of a patient's well-being. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the patient receives holistic and coordinated care, leading to better outcomes and patient satisfaction. Effective communication and coordination among team members also help prevent errors, reduce duplication of efforts, and promote efficient use of resources. Overall, interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in healthcare settings.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Myxedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism that is characterized by the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in subcutaneous and other interstitial tissues. This condition leads to puffiness, swelling, and thickening of the skin, giving it a waxy appearance. Other symptoms of myxedema include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and hair loss. It is important to recognize and treat myxedema promptly as it can lead to serious complications such as myxedema coma, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.