When assessing the patient, you notice that there is contraction of his facial muscle after tapping the facial nerve anterior to his ear. This is a sign of

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Hypocalcemia. The observation of facial muscle contraction after tapping the facial nerve anterior to the ear is indicative of Chvostek's sign, which is a clinical manifestation of hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia leads to increased neuromuscular excitability, causing facial muscle twitching in response to nerve stimulation. Option A) Hyponatremia, Option B) Hypokalemia, and Option C) Hypomagnesemia are incorrect because they do not directly cause Chvostek's sign. Hyponatremia is related to sodium levels, hypokalemia to potassium levels, and hypomagnesemia to magnesium levels, not calcium levels like in hypocalcemia. In an educational context, understanding Chvostek's sign is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals as it serves as a clinical indicator of potential hypocalcemia in patients. Recognizing this sign promptly allows for timely intervention and treatment to prevent complications associated with calcium imbalances, such as tetany and seizures. This knowledge underscores the importance of thorough patient assessment and the significance of recognizing subtle clinical signs to provide safe and effective care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of an ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam, the primary mode of treatment for ankylosing spondylitis is physical therapy (option B). Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and eventually leading to fusion of the vertebrae. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing ankylosing spondylitis by improving flexibility, strength, and overall functional ability. It helps maintain mobility, reduce pain, and prevent complications such as spinal deformities. Option A, relaxed posture for comfort, is not the primary mode of treatment for ankylosing spondylitis. While comfort measures may provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying disease process or prevent long-term complications. Option C, strict bedrest, is not recommended for ankylosing spondylitis as it can lead to further stiffness, muscle weakness, and decreased mobility, exacerbating the condition. Option D, respiratory therapy, is not the primary mode of treatment for ankylosing spondylitis. Respiratory therapy is typically used to treat conditions affecting the lungs and breathing, not specifically ankylosing spondylitis which primarily affects the spine. Educationally, understanding the appropriate treatment modalities for ankylosing spondylitis is essential for nurses and healthcare providers to effectively manage patients with this condition. By recognizing the importance of physical therapy in improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals with ankylosing spondylitis, healthcare professionals can provide holistic care that addresses both the physical and functional aspects of the disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of a patient with a second-degree burn, the greater risk for infection (Option B) is the correct answer. Second-degree burns compromise the skin barrier, making the patient more susceptible to bacterial invasion and subsequent infection. The damaged skin is unable to protect against pathogens, increasing the likelihood of infection, which can lead to serious complications like sepsis. Constipation (Option A) is not directly related to the severity of a burn injury. While pain medications or immobility post-burn may contribute to constipation, it is not the primary concern in this scenario. Hypotension (Option C) and hyperglycemia (Option D) are also not typically associated with second-degree burns unless there are underlying conditions or complications present. Educationally, understanding the increased risk of infection in patients with second-degree burns is crucial for providing appropriate care. Proper wound care, infection prevention strategies, and vigilance for signs of infection are essential in managing these patients effectively to prevent further complications and promote optimal healing.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam, understanding the symptoms of hypothyroidism is crucial for providing effective care. The correct answer is B) Fatigue and cold intolerance. Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, leading to a decrease in metabolic rate. This results in symptoms such as fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and hair loss. These symptoms are due to the decreased production of thyroid hormones, which play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy levels in the body. Option A) Polydipsia and polyphagia are symptoms more commonly associated with conditions like diabetes, where increased thirst and hunger are present due to issues with insulin regulation, not hypothyroidism. Option C) Weight loss and hyperglycemia are also not typical symptoms of hypothyroidism. Weight gain is more commonly seen in hypothyroidism due to the slowed metabolism, and hyperglycemia is usually associated with conditions like diabetes. Option D) Tachycardia and diarrhea are actually symptoms of hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland is overactive and producing an excess of thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as rapid heart rate and gastrointestinal disturbances. Understanding the specific symptoms of hypothyroidism is essential for nurses to be able to recognize and provide appropriate care for patients with this condition. By knowing the correct symptoms, healthcare providers can initiate timely interventions and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of a patient with a history of asthma undergoing an appendectomy, the correct preoperative teaching would include the need to perform postoperative coughing and deep breathing exercises (Option A). This is crucial for the patient with asthma to prevent respiratory complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia, which can be exacerbated by reduced lung expansion post-surgery. Option B, leg exercises, while beneficial for circulation and preventing blood clots, are not directly related to respiratory complications in asthma patients post-appendectomy. Option C, wound dressing changes, is important but not specific to asthma or respiratory care post-surgery. Option D, all of these, is incorrect because leg exercises and wound dressing changes are not directly related to managing respiratory concerns in asthma patients post-appendectomy. Including coughing and deep breathing exercises in preoperative teaching is essential to promote lung expansion, prevent respiratory complications, and support optimal recovery for patients with asthma undergoing surgery. This educational rationale underscores the importance of tailoring preoperative teaching to the specific needs and risks of individual patients to enhance their postoperative outcomes.