What is the nurse's priority for a patient with acute bronchitis and a persistent nonproductive cough?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, encouraging increased fluid intake. This is the priority because it helps to thin and loosen respiratory secretions, making it easier for the patient to cough them up. Adequate hydration also helps to prevent dehydration, which can worsen symptoms. Administering an antitussive (choice A) is not recommended for nonproductive cough as it can suppress the cough reflex and impede clearing of secretions. Teaching about inhaler use (choice C) is important but not the priority in this case. Providing humidified oxygen therapy (choice D) may be necessary in severe cases but is not the priority over addressing hydration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess for signs of hypoxia. When a patient on oxygen therapy becomes agitated, it may indicate hypoxia. Assessing for signs of hypoxia is the priority to ensure the patient's safety and well-being. Other choices are incorrect as notifying the health care provider, reassuring the patient, or assessing blood pressure should come after assessing for hypoxia to address the immediate concern.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Administer IV fluids. Severe pain post total knee replacement may indicate hypovolemia due to blood loss during surgery. Administering IV fluids will help restore circulating volume and improve perfusion to the surgical site. Analgesics can address pain but addressing the underlying cause is more important. Early ambulation and dressing change can be important but are not the priority in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Administer IV fluids. In a patient with stroke symptoms like slurred speech and facial drooping, maintaining adequate hydration is crucial to prevent complications. IV fluids help ensure proper blood flow to the brain, which is essential in stroke management. Administering a corticosteroid (choice A) is not the priority in this acute situation. Pain medications (choice B) may not address the underlying issue of stroke and should not be the primary intervention. IV pain management (choice D) is not necessary unless pain is a significant symptom, which is not the case in this scenario. Administering IV fluids is the most appropriate intervention to support the patient's overall condition and neurological function.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer antiemetics. This is the priority intervention because nausea and vomiting can lead to complications such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances postoperatively. Administering antiemetics helps to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further issues. Increasing fluid intake (B) is important but not the priority when the patient is actively experiencing nausea and vomiting. Monitoring respiratory status (C) and encouraging deep breathing (D) are important for overall postoperative care but do not directly address the immediate issue of nausea and vomiting.