What are the early signs of heart failure in a patient?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Shortness of breath and weight gain. Early signs of heart failure typically manifest as shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation in the lungs and weight gain due to fluid retention in the body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Fatigue and chest pain are symptoms commonly associated with heart conditions but are not specific early signs of heart failure. Nausea and vomiting are not typically early signs of heart failure. Cough can be a symptom of heart failure, but it is usually associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath rather than being an isolated early sign. Elevated blood pressure is not an early sign of heart failure; in fact, heart failure is more commonly associated with low blood pressure.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Eat small, frequent meals.' Eating small, frequent meals helps manage IBS symptoms by avoiding overloading the digestive system. Choice A is incorrect because increasing fiber intake may worsen symptoms in some individuals with IBS. Choice B is not a blanket recommendation for all IBS patients; some may tolerate dairy products well. Choice D is incorrect as fruits and vegetables are important sources of nutrients and should not be completely avoided unless specific triggers are identified.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct next step when a client develops phlebitis while receiving IV fluids is to remove the catheter and place it in another site. Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein, and leaving the catheter in the same site can lead to further complications. Monitoring the site for further swelling, as in choice A, is not enough as the source of inflammation needs to be removed. Choice C, reducing the flow rate, may not address the underlying issue causing phlebitis. Switching to oral hydration, as in choice D, is not necessary for addressing phlebitis related to IV fluid administration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct first action when preparing to administer a blood transfusion is to verify the client's blood type before starting the transfusion. This step is crucial to prevent transfusion reactions and complications. Option A is incorrect because blood transfusions should not be administered through an IV push due to the risk of rapid infusion and adverse reactions. Option C is incorrect because blood should be transfused at room temperature, not body temperature. Option D is incorrect because it is not necessary for the client to eat before a blood transfusion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. During acute diverticulitis, avoiding fiber is essential as it helps reduce irritation of the intestines. Choice B is incorrect because taking a laxative daily can exacerbate diverticulitis. Choice C is incorrect as IV fluids mainly provide hydration and electrolytes, not all essential nutrients. Choice D is incorrect because during acute diverticulitis, a low-fiber or liquid diet is typically recommended to rest the bowel.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chest pain, shortness of breath, and tachycardia. These are classic early signs of a pulmonary embolism. Chest pain may be sudden and sharp, worsened by deep breathing or coughing. Shortness of breath can be sudden and severe. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is another common symptom. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent typical early signs of a pulmonary embolism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Performing fundal massage is the priority action in this scenario. Fundal massage helps contract the uterus, which is essential in reducing excessive lochia postpartum. Administering oxytocin may be indicated later, but fundal massage should be the initial intervention to address the issue. Administering IV fluids may not directly address the cause of excessive lochia, and calling the provider should come after implementing immediate nursing interventions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to administer oxygen. In a patient experiencing respiratory distress, the primary concern is ensuring an adequate oxygen supply to the body. By administering oxygen, you can help improve oxygenation, which is crucial for the patient's overall well-being. Assessing airway patency is important but administering oxygen takes precedence as it directly addresses the oxygenation concern. Monitoring oxygen saturation is also essential, but the immediate action should be to provide oxygen. Calling for assistance can be important but is not the first priority when dealing with a patient in respiratory distress.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor for signs of infection and administer pain relief. In postoperative care for a patient with a hip replacement, it is crucial for the nurse to monitor for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or drainage from the surgical site. Administering pain relief is also important to ensure the patient's comfort and aid in their recovery. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the immediate postoperative care needs of a patient with a hip replacement. Ensuring a low-calcium diet, using crutches, or monitoring for deep vein thrombosis are not primary responsibilities in the immediate postoperative period for this type of surgery.