Vaginal candidacies are suspected in a young woman who complains of severe vaginal itching. Which of the following nursing actions should be performed first when assisting in the collection of a vaginal smear for microscopic examination?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer to the question is B) Don gloves. This is the most critical nursing action to perform first when assisting in the collection of a vaginal smear for microscopic examination in a suspected case of vaginal candidiasis. Wearing gloves is essential to prevent the introduction of external contaminants into the vaginal area and to avoid the potential spread of infection. By donning gloves, the nurse maintains aseptic technique, ensuring the integrity of the specimen and preventing cross-contamination between the patient and healthcare provider. Inspecting the external genitalia (option A) may be important but should come after donning gloves to avoid introducing pathogens to the area. Washing hands (option C) is also crucial but is secondary to wearing gloves in this context. Labeling the specimen (option D) is important for proper identification but is a later step in the process, following the collection of the sample. In an educational context, understanding the correct sequence of steps in specimen collection is vital for healthcare providers to ensure accurate diagnostic results and patient safety. Emphasizing the significance of proper infection control measures such as wearing gloves reinforces best practices in clinical settings and helps prevent the spread of infections.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Torsion of the spermatic cord. When an adolescent experiences intense pain in the testicle after physical activity like riding a bike, it is crucial to consider this condition. Torsion of the spermatic cord occurs when the spermatic cord twists, leading to a disruption in blood flow to the testicle, causing severe pain and swelling. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent testicular damage. Option B) Cryptorchidism refers to undescended testicles, a condition usually present at birth or early childhood and unlikely to cause sudden intense pain after physical activity like biking. Option C) Phimosis is the inability to retract the foreskin over the head of the penis. While it can cause discomfort, it does not typically result in sudden, severe testicular pain. Option D) Spermatocele is a fluid-filled cyst in the epididymis, which is usually painless and not associated with sudden, intense testicular pain. Educationally, understanding these conditions is vital for healthcare professionals working with adolescents. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of testicular torsion is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent potential complications like testicular necrosis. This case underscores the significance of quick and accurate assessment in ensuring positive outcomes for patients experiencing acute scrotal pain.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because when a nurse assesses the inguinal region and femoral area of a male patient standing and straining, they are checking for hernias. By observing for a bulge through the inguinal region, the nurse can identify any potential hernias, such as inguinal hernias. Palpating the femoral artery (choice A) is not relevant to assessing hernias. Palpating the inguinal lymph nodes (choice B) is not appropriate for assessing hernias in this scenario. Observing for discoloration of the inguinal ring (choice D) is not a typical sign of hernias. Therefore, choice C is the most appropriate assessment technique in this situation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Small vesicles on the genitalia. Genital herpes typically presents with small vesicles on the genitalia. These vesicles are usually painful and may be accompanied by itching or burning sensations. The presence of vesicles is a hallmark sign of genital herpes. Summary: B: Single, firm, painless, open sore is more characteristic of syphilis, not genital herpes. C: Pain when palpating the cervix is not a typical finding in genital herpes. D: Malodorous greenish-yellow vaginal discharge is more indicative of a bacterial infection like trichomoniasis, not genital herpes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct question to ask when assessing a 60-yr-old patient with a history of BPH is C: “Has there been a decrease in the force of your urinary stream?” This question is relevant as BPH commonly causes urinary symptoms like weak urinary stream. Asking about unusual discharge (A) is more relevant for assessing sexually transmitted infections. Inquiring about changes in sex life (B) and difficulty achieving an erection (D) are more related to erectile dysfunction, which may not be directly linked to BPH in this context.