The nurse is encouraging a sedentary patient with major risks for CAD to perform physical exercise on a regular basis. In addition to decreasing the risk factor of physical inactivity, the nurse tells the patient that exercise will also directly contribute to reducing which risk factors?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Hyperlipidemia and obesity. Regular physical exercise is beneficial in reducing the risk factors associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). Hyperlipidemia, characterized by high levels of lipids in the blood, and obesity, which is an excess of body fat, are directly impacted by exercise. When a sedentary individual engages in physical activity, it helps to lower cholesterol levels, improve lipid profiles, and promote weight loss or weight management. These effects are crucial in reducing the risk of CAD as high cholesterol levels and obesity are significant contributing factors to the development of heart disease. Option B) Diabetes mellitus and hypertension are not directly impacted by exercise in the same way as hyperlipidemia and obesity. While exercise can help in managing diabetes and hypertension by improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood pressure, these conditions are not as directly linked to physical inactivity as hyperlipidemia and obesity are in the context of CAD. Option C) Elevated serum lipids and stressful lifestyle do not accurately reflect the specific risk factors that can be directly influenced by regular physical exercise. While exercise can help in managing stress levels and improving overall well-being, the direct impact on lipid levels and obesity is more significant in the context of CAD prevention. Option D) Hypertension and elevated serum homocysteine are not directly addressed by exercise in the same way as hyperlipidemia and obesity are. While exercise can help in reducing blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health, the direct impact on homocysteine levels is not as pronounced in the context of CAD risk reduction. In an educational context, understanding the direct impact of physical exercise on specific risk factors for CAD is essential for healthcare providers to effectively counsel patients on preventive measures. By highlighting the connection between exercise, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, nurses can empower patients to take proactive steps in managing their cardiovascular health through lifestyle modifications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of a patient hospitalized after sudden cardiac death (SCD), the most important nursing intervention is A) Continuous ECG monitoring. This is crucial because it allows for real-time monitoring of the patient's cardiac rhythm, which is essential in detecting any potential arrhythmias or abnormalities promptly. Continuous ECG monitoring enables early identification of changes in the heart's electrical activity, which is critical in preventing another cardiac event. It provides valuable information on the patient's heart rate, rhythm, and conduction, allowing nurses to intervene promptly if any issues arise. Auscultation of the carotid arteries (Option B) may provide information on blood flow, but it does not directly monitor the patient's cardiac rhythm or electrical activity. Frequent assessment of heart sounds (Option C) is important but does not take precedence over continuous ECG monitoring in this scenario. Monitoring airway status and respiratory patterns (Option D) is essential for overall patient care, but in the immediate aftermath of SCD, ensuring continuous ECG monitoring takes priority due to the risk of recurrent cardiac events. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind prioritizing interventions post-SCD is crucial for nurses caring for cardiac patients. It emphasizes the significance of continuous cardiac monitoring in preventing potential complications and guiding timely interventions to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this practice exam question about pneumothorax symptoms, the correct answer is C) Both A and B (Chest pain and Shortness of breath). Pneumothorax is a condition characterized by the presence of air in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. Chest pain is a common symptom of pneumothorax due to irritation of the pleura. The presence of air in the pleural space also leads to lung compression, causing shortness of breath as the lung is unable to expand fully. Option A (Chest pain) is incorrect because pneumothorax does not typically cause localized chest pain, but rather a more generalized discomfort or sharp pain due to lung collapse. Option B (Shortness of breath) is incorrect as pneumothorax directly impacts lung function, leading to decreased lung capacity and difficulty breathing. Educationally, understanding the symptoms of pneumothorax is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in emergency or critical care settings. Recognizing these symptoms promptly can lead to early diagnosis and intervention, potentially preventing further complications or progression of the condition. This knowledge is vital for providing timely and appropriate care to patients with pneumothorax.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct nursing action is to choose option A) call Mr. K.'s physician to report the PT result. A significantly elevated prothrombin time indicates a prolonged clotting time, which may lead to an increased risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is crucial to inform the physician promptly to ensure appropriate management. Option B) stopping the heparin infusion is incorrect because heparin is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots, and abruptly discontinuing it can lead to an increased risk of clot formation. Option C) increasing the heparin infusion is also incorrect as it would further exacerbate the anticoagulation effect, potentially leading to serious bleeding complications. Option D) doing nothing is not the appropriate course of action when faced with a critical lab result that can impact patient safety. Educationally, understanding the significance of prothrombin time values is vital for nurses caring for patients on anticoagulant therapy. This knowledge helps in recognizing abnormal results, taking appropriate actions, and collaborating effectively with the healthcare team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of teaching about methyldopa to patients, it is crucial for them to understand that option C) may produce drowsiness initially is the correct answer. Methyldopa is an antihypertensive medication that acts centrally to reduce blood pressure. One of the common side effects of methyldopa is drowsiness, especially when initiating treatment. Educating patients about this potential side effect is important for them to be aware and to prevent any unnecessary concerns or alarm. Option A) decreases cardiac output is incorrect because methyldopa primarily acts on the central nervous system to reduce blood pressure and does not directly impact cardiac output. Option B) may produce mental confusion is incorrect as mental confusion is not a common side effect associated with methyldopa use. Option D) blocks the release of norepinephrine is incorrect as methyldopa works by being converted into alpha-methyl norepinephrine, which then acts in the brain to decrease sympathetic outflow, thereby lowering blood pressure. In an educational context, teaching patients about the potential side effects of medications like methyldopa empowers them to recognize and manage these effects effectively. It also fosters a sense of autonomy and responsibility in their own healthcare management. This knowledge enables patients to make informed decisions and seek timely medical advice if needed.