The nurse will monitor J.E. for the following signs and symptoms:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. 1. Change in level of consciousness is crucial in assessing neurological status. 2. Tachypnea indicates possible respiratory distress or oxygenation issues. 3. Tachycardia may suggest a cardiovascular problem or inadequate perfusion. 4. Petechiae can be a sign of bleeding disorders or sepsis. Option B is incorrect because chest pain, diaphoresis, and nausea/vomiting are more indicative of a cardiac event rather than monitoring for J.E.'s signs and symptoms. Option C is incorrect because loss of consciousness, bradycardia, and leg pain do not align with the signs and symptoms to monitor for J.E. Option D is incorrect because bradycardia, chest pain, and oliguria are not as comprehensive as the signs and symptoms listed in option A for monitoring J.E.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because tachycardia (increased heart rate) and dilated pupils are classic responses of the sympathetic nervous system activation. Sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the fight or flight response, leading to increased heart rate and dilated pupils to prepare the body for quick action. Choice B is incorrect because hypoglycemia and headache are not specific to sympathetic nervous system function. Choice C is incorrect because increased peristalsis and abdominal cramping are more indicative of parasympathetic nervous system activity. Choice D is incorrect because pupil constriction and bronchoconstriction are actions of the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for rest and digest functions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: To calculate the mL needed for the injection, divide the prescribed dose by the concentration of the medication. In this case, 30 mg ÷ 50 mg/mL = 0.6 mL. However, since the nurse should round up to ensure the full dose is administered, the correct answer is 0.7 mL. Choice A is incorrect as it is rounded down. Choice C is incorrect as it is the exact division without rounding up. Choice D is incorrect as it is rounded up too much.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C (5 years) because ALS is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease. The median life expectancy for most ALS patients is around 3-5 years from the onset of symptoms. Choice A (3 years) is too short for 50% of patients. Choice B (10 years) and Choice D (20 years) are longer than the typical life expectancy for ALS patients, making them incorrect. The progression of ALS varies among individuals, but statistically, 50% of patients would be expected to live around 5 years after diagnosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintain strict aseptic technique. This is crucial during thoracentesis to prevent infection. Step 1: Before the procedure, sterile equipment and supplies must be used. Step 2: Proper hand hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of introducing pathogens. Step 3: During the procedure, maintaining a sterile field helps minimize the risk of contamination. Step 4: After the procedure, ensuring proper disposal of all used supplies prevents the spread of infection. Summary: A: Placing the patient in a quiet and cool room may be comforting but is not directly related to the safety of the procedure. C: Advising the patient to sit still is important for accurate needle insertion but does not address infection prevention. D: Applying pressure over the puncture site is important but does not prevent infection if aseptic technique is not maintained.