What is the priority action for a client with an open chest wound?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Apply a sterile dressing. Firstly, cover the wound with a sterile occlusive dressing to prevent air from entering the pleural space, reducing the risk of tension pneumothorax. This also helps to prevent infection and further complications. Administering morphine (B) or nitroglycerin (D) is not the priority in this situation as managing the chest wound is crucial. Applying an airtight dressing (C) may lead to tension pneumothorax if not done properly. Therefore, the immediate action should be to apply a sterile dressing to stabilize the wound and prevent further complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Patient's age and mobility. Age and mobility are key factors in pressure ulcer development as elderly and immobile patients are at higher risk due to decreased circulation and pressure on skin. Family medical history (B) is not directly linked to pressure ulcers. Frequency of hospital visits (C) is not a determining factor, and patient's education level (D) does not directly impact pressure ulcer risk. In summary, assessing age and mobility helps identify high-risk patients for developing pressure ulcers.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer pain medication. This is the most appropriate nursing intervention because severe pain post-surgery requires immediate relief to ensure the client's comfort and aid in recovery. Pain medication helps manage pain effectively, improving the client's overall well-being and promoting healing. Monitoring vital signs (choice B) is important but secondary to pain relief in this scenario. Administering IV fluids (choice C) may be necessary for hydration but does not directly address the pain. Administering corticosteroids (choice D) is not typically indicated for severe pain post-surgery.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer epinephrine. This is the first action because epinephrine is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. It works quickly to reverse the symptoms by constricting blood vessels and opening airways. Administering epinephrine promptly can prevent progression to severe complications such as respiratory distress or cardiovascular collapse. Placing the client in a supine position and administering oxygen (B) may be necessary but should not delay the administration of epinephrine. Administering fluids (C) may help maintain blood pressure but is not the priority in the acute phase of anaphylaxis. Antihistamines (D) are not effective for treating the severe symptoms of anaphylaxis and should not be the first-line treatment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer glucose. In hypoglycemia, the priority is to raise the low blood sugar levels quickly. Administering glucose is the most direct and effective way to do so. Glucose will rapidly increase the blood sugar levels and help the client recover from hypoglycemia. Administering insulin (B) would further lower blood sugar levels. Administering glucagon (C) is used for severe hypoglycemia when the client is unconscious. Encouraging deep breathing (D) is not effective in treating hypoglycemia and does not address the immediate need to raise blood sugar levels.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer antibiotics. When caring for a client with severe burns, the first priority is to prevent infection, which can be life-threatening. Administering antibiotics helps reduce the risk of infection. Cleansing and dressing the wounds can come after ensuring infection control. Performing a tracheostomy is not typically the first priority unless there are airway concerns. Administering analgesics is important, but it is not the first priority in this case.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct response is D because it encourages the mother to provide specific information about the toddler's behavior indicating pain. This helps the nurse assess the severity and nature of the earache accurately. Options A and C are dismissive and may overlook a potential health issue. Option B suggests immediate action without gathering information first, which may not be necessary.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal for a client with newly diagnosed diabetes is to monitor their blood glucose levels (Answer B). This is essential to understand how their body responds to different foods, activities, and medications. Monitoring blood glucose levels helps in determining the effectiveness of the treatment plan and making necessary adjustments. Teaching the client how to manage their blood glucose levels (Answer A) is important, but monitoring comes first. Monitoring urine output (Answer C) is not as relevant for diabetes management. Administering insulin (Answer D) may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the primary goal initially.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Inspecting feet daily for signs of injury. This is crucial for patients with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy to prevent complications like infections and ulcers. By inspecting their feet daily, the patient can identify any injuries or abnormalities early and seek prompt medical attention. This proactive approach can help prevent serious consequences such as amputations. Summary of incorrect choices: B: Taking medications only when experiencing symptoms - This is not recommended as medications for diabetes and neuropathy are often prescribed to prevent complications and manage the conditions on a daily basis. C: Exercising to increase foot circulation - While exercise is beneficial, patients with peripheral neuropathy may have decreased sensation in their feet, increasing the risk of injury during exercise. D: Wearing tight-fitting shoes to avoid blisters - Tight-fitting shoes can cause pressure points and increase the risk of foot injuries, especially in patients with neuropathy.