Correct Answer: D

Rationale: An ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is obstructed, typically by a thrombus (a blood clot that forms in a blood vessel and remains attached to its place of origin) or an embolus (a blood clot that travels from a different part of the body and becomes lodged in a blood vessel in the brain). Another cause of ischemic stroke can be stenosis, which is the narrowing of a blood vessel, restricting blood flow to the brain. When the brain does not receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients due to the blockage, brain cells can be damaged or die, leading to a stroke. Ischemic strokes account for the majority of strokes and are essential to manage promptly to minimize brain damage and long-term disability.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) often undergo percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) as a non-surgical intervention to improve blood flow in the affected arteries. PTA involves the use of a catheter with a balloon at its tip, which is inflated at the site of arterial narrowing to widen the vessel by compressing the plaque and stretching the arterial walls. This procedure helps restore blood flow and can alleviate symptoms such as claudication and ischemia in patients with PVD. Stent placement, endarterectomy, and atherectomy are other interventions that may be used in the management of PVD, but PTA is specifically known for its role in improving arterial blood flow in these patients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Asking the patient to clench their teeth is a common way to assess muscle strength in the face, particularly the muscles involved in the jaw. Clenching the teeth engages the muscles responsible for this action, such as the masseter muscle. Assessing the ability to clench the teeth provides insight into the strength and function of these facial muscles.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse is monitoring vital signs and laboratory values for the patient recovering from a total knee replacement to ensure adequate circulation to the involved extremity. After a total knee replacement surgery, there is a risk of developing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or impaired circulation to the surgical site. Monitoring vital signs and laboratory values allows the nurse to assess for any signs of compromised circulation, which could indicate the development of complications requiring immediate intervention. By closely monitoring these parameters, the nurse can ensure that the patient's recovery is progressing smoothly and without any major complications impacting the circulation to the involved extremity.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Beta blockers are commonly prescribed for patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy due to their ability to help lower heart rate, reduce myocardial oxygen demand, and improve diastolic filling time. They can also help to prevent arrhythmias in these patients. Digoxin, vasodilators, and nitrates are not typically used as first-line treatment for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.