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: C

Rationale: Step 1: Hypertension is often worsened by high sodium intake. Step 2: Decreasing sodium intake helps lower blood pressure. Step 3: This dietary change aligns with hypertension management. Step 4: Increasing processed foods (A), saturated fats (D), or potassium intake (B) do not directly address the issue of high sodium intake and may even exacerbate hypertension.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because critical thinking helps nurses analyze complex situations, identify relevant information, and plan effective interventions. It allows for systematic problem-solving and decision-making, leading to optimal patient care outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as critical thinking doesn't guarantee immediate answers. Choice C is incorrect because critical thinking complements clinical guidelines rather than replacing them. Choice D is incorrect as physical assessments are essential in nursing care and critical thinking enhances, not bypasses, this process.

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: Administer oxygen. In respiratory distress, the priority is to ensure adequate oxygenation. Oxygen therapy helps improve oxygen levels in the blood and relieve respiratory distress. Administering diuretics (B) may not address the immediate need for oxygen. Increasing respiratory rate (C) may lead to worsening distress if the underlying cause is not addressed. Administering IV fluids (D) is not the priority unless specifically indicated for the client's condition. It is crucial to prioritize oxygen delivery to support vital functions and stabilize the client's condition.