Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Apply an airtight dressing. This is the first priority because it helps prevent air from entering the chest cavity, which can cause a tension pneumothorax. A tension pneumothorax can rapidly lead to respiratory distress and cardiac arrest. Applying an airtight dressing helps stabilize the condition until further medical intervention can be provided. Incorrect choices: A: Performing needle decompression is not the first priority as it is indicated for a tension pneumothorax once it has developed, not as a preventive measure. B: Applying a sterile dressing is important but not the first priority when dealing with a gunshot wound to the chest as sealing the wound to prevent air entry is more critical. D: Monitoring the client's ECG is not the first priority in this situation as addressing the potential tension pneumothorax takes precedence over monitoring the client's heart rhythm.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administering diuretics to manage fluid retention. In heart failure, fluid overload can worsen symptoms and lead to complications. Diuretics help reduce excess fluid in the body, relieving strain on the heart. This intervention helps improve cardiac function and alleviate symptoms. Choice B (Encouraging increased physical activity) may be beneficial in some cases, but in heart failure, excessive physical activity can strain the heart further. Choice C (Providing a low-sodium diet) is important in managing heart failure, but diuretics would be more critical initially to address immediate fluid retention. Choice D (Encouraging high-potassium foods) is important for overall health but not the priority in managing heart failure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because building trust with patients is crucial for effective communication and promoting patient cooperation. Trust takes time to develop and is essential in gaining accurate information about a patient's health. Patients may not disclose all information if they do not trust the nurse. Choice A is incorrect because patients may withhold information for various reasons. Choice C is incorrect as not all patients seeking care may fully understand the Canadian health care system. Choice D is incorrect because not all patients may recognize the importance of answering all questions, especially if they are uncomfortable or lack trust in the healthcare provider.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer IV fluids. This is the priority intervention because severe dehydration requires immediate fluid replacement to restore fluid balance and prevent further complications. IV fluids are the most rapid and effective way to rehydrate a severely dehydrated client. Monitoring vital signs (B) and blood pressure (D) are important, but administering IV fluids takes precedence. Encouraging oral fluids (C) may not be sufficient for a client with severe dehydration who may not be able to adequately absorb fluids orally.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct first action for a nurse when caring for a client with acute shortness of breath is to administer oxygen (Choice A). Oxygen is essential to support the client's respiratory function and improve oxygenation. Administering corticosteroids (Choice B) may be considered later for certain underlying conditions, but oxygen takes precedence. Administering pain relief (Choice C) is not the priority in this situation. Placing the client in a supine position (Choice D) can potentially worsen respiratory distress in some cases, making it an incorrect choice.