What can alleviate xerostomia in a patient undergoing head and neck radiation?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Xerostomia can be partially alleviated by drinking fluids at frequent intervals. Radiation will damage tissues at the site being radiated but should not affect the abdominal organs, so loose stools are not a usual complication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: O2 saturation would be expected to improve after a thoracentesis. A saturation of 88% indicates that a complication such as pneumothorax may be occurring.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The goal for treatment of an asthma attack is to keep the O2 saturation above 90%. The other patient data may occur when the patient is too fatigued to continue with the increased work of breathing required in an asthma attack.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: High-calorie foods such as ice cream are an appropriate snack for patients with COPD. Fluid intake of 3 L/day is recommended, but fluids should be taken between meals rather than with meals to improve oral intake of solid foods.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Oxygen is used in mining and to manufacture glass and stone products, as well as in steel production, supporting industrial processes.