The nurse is performing a functional assessment on an 82-year-old patient who recently had a stroke. Which of the following questions would be the most important to ask?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Are you able to dress yourself?" This question is the most important because it directly assesses the patient's functional abilities post-stroke, providing crucial information about their independence and self-care abilities. It helps determine the patient's level of disability and need for assistance with activities of daily living. Choice A: "Do you wear glasses?" is not as important in this context as it does not directly address the patient's functional status post-stroke. Choice C: "Do you have any thyroid problems?" is irrelevant to the functional assessment of a patient post-stroke. Choice D: "How many times a day do you have a bowel movement?" is not as critical as assessing the patient's ability to perform basic activities of daily living.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the older adult's statement about joining his wife in heaven and plan to shoot himself indicates clear intent and imminent risk. This individual has a specific plan and timeframe, making them highest risk. Choice A is incorrect because joking about death does not necessarily indicate an imminent risk of suicide. Choice B is incorrect as past suicide attempts are a risk factor, but immediate intent is more concerning. Choice C is incorrect as the adolescent's statement is concerning, but there is no specific plan or timeframe mentioned, lowering the immediate risk compared to choice D.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because knowing a First Nations person's status guides health care providers in planning care. First Nations individuals with status are entitled to specific benefits not covered under provincial health plans. This knowledge helps tailor treatment plans and access appropriate resources. Choice A is incorrect because status does not directly relate to provincial health insurance coverage. Choice B is incorrect as it inaccurately states that only those with status can have unlimited benefits across Canada. Choice D is incorrect because status does not necessarily influence how a person interacts with their community.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions as it helps to reverse the symptoms quickly and prevent further complications. Administering corticosteroids (B) may be considered later for long-term management, but epinephrine is the immediate priority. Administering oxygen (C) may help with respiratory distress but does not address the underlying allergic reaction. Applying a cold compress (D) may provide temporary relief for local reactions but is not effective for a severe systemic allergic reaction.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The nursing process consists of Assessment, Diagnosis, Outcome Identification, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation. Assessment involves gathering data about the patient's health status. Diagnosis is the identification of the patient's health problems. Outcome Identification sets goals for resolving these problems. Planning involves developing a care plan. Implementation is the execution of the care plan. Evaluation assesses the effectiveness of the care provided. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect: A: Treatment and client outcome are not individual phases in the nursing process. B: Admission and discharge planning are not standalone phases in the nursing process. C: Expected outcome is not a phase, and assessment is missing from the sequence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Assessing the patient's respiratory status. After administering pain medication, especially opioids, it is crucial to monitor the patient's respiratory status due to the risk of respiratory depression. This assessment is a priority because respiratory depression can be life-threatening. Other choices are not as immediate: A, assessing for addiction, can be done but is not as critical at this moment; B, assessing pain level, is important but comes after ensuring the patient's safety; D, assessing for infection, is not directly related to the immediate effects of pain medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Use a numeric pain scale. This method allows for quantitative assessment of pain intensity, aiding in accurate pain management. It is widely used in healthcare settings, providing a standardized way to communicate and monitor pain levels. Visual analog scale (B) is subjective and less precise than numeric scales. Facial expression scale (C) may be influenced by cultural factors and is subjective. Observing for signs of depression (D) is important but not specific to assessing pain intensity.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: Increasing potassium intake helps lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. Step 2: Potassium helps relax blood vessel walls, reducing blood pressure. Step 3: Adequate potassium intake also helps the body balance fluids and maintain normal blood pressure. Summary: A - Increasing sodium intake is counterproductive for hypertension. C - Limiting caffeine helps, but not as directly as increasing potassium. D - Fruits and vegetables are important for a heart-healthy diet and should not be reduced.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypertrophic scar. This type of scar is raised, red, and irregular, but it does not extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound like a keloid. A keloid is characterized by excessive scar tissue that grows beyond the wound site. Contracture is a scar that causes tightening of the skin and may restrict movement. Stretch marks, on the other hand, are not raised or irregular like the described scar.