Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer fluids. In shock, the most crucial intervention is to restore perfusion by increasing circulating volume. Administering fluids helps to improve tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery. This is essential for stabilizing the client's condition. Monitoring cardiac rhythm (B) and blood pressure (C) are important, but addressing the underlying issue of hypovolemia by giving fluids takes precedence. Providing IV antibiotics (D) is not the primary intervention for shock, as the immediate focus should be on restoring blood flow and oxygen delivery.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Perform a lumbar puncture. This is the first action because diagnosing meningitis requires cerebrospinal fluid analysis obtained through a lumbar puncture. It helps identify the specific type of meningitis (bacterial, viral, or fungal) and guides appropriate treatment. Administering pain relief (B) or oxygen (C) may be necessary but not the initial priority. Administering antibiotics (D) should be based on the results of the lumbar puncture to ensure targeted therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer antihypertensive medication. In a hypertensive emergency, the priority is to lower blood pressure quickly to prevent organ damage. Antihypertensive medications like nitroprusside or labetalol are used for this purpose. Placing the client in a comfortable position and administering oxygen (B) may be beneficial, but lowering the blood pressure is the primary action. Monitoring blood pressure and administering antihypertensive medication (C) is correct, but the emphasis should be on immediate intervention. Monitoring the client's ECG (D) is important but not the primary action in a hypertensive emergency.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Shortness of breath and weight gain. In chronic heart failure, fluid overload can lead to pulmonary congestion, causing shortness of breath. Weight gain is also a key sign of fluid retention. Increased urine output and hypotension (choice B) are more indicative of dehydration. Fatigue and dizziness (choice C) can be nonspecific symptoms and not directly related to fluid overload. Dry mouth and thirst (choice D) are symptoms of dehydration rather than fluid overload in chronic heart failure. Monitoring for shortness of breath and weight gain allows for early detection and intervention in managing fluid overload in patients with chronic heart failure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Encourage fluid intake. Adequate hydration helps in pain management by promoting circulation and reducing inflammation. Opioids (choice A) should only be used if non-pharmacological interventions fail. Administering oxygen (choice C) is not typically indicated for pain management. Monitoring electrolyte levels (choice D) is important but not the most immediate intervention for acute pain post-surgery.