Which action should be performed first when assessing a hospitalized patient with shortness of breath?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action is to obtain baseline information first, then do a complete assessment (Choice C). This is important as it allows the healthcare provider to gather initial vital signs and key information before proceeding with a thorough assessment. By obtaining baseline information first, the healthcare provider can assess the patient's current status and identify any urgent needs requiring immediate attention. This approach helps in prioritizing the assessment and subsequent interventions. Examining only the body areas related to the problem (Choice A) may lead to missing important clues to the patient's condition. Obtaining a thorough history and physical assessment from the family (Choice B) can provide valuable information but should not be the first step in assessing the patient's immediate needs. Examining the entire body to determine if the problem is linked to something else (Choice D) is not the most efficient approach as it may delay identifying and addressing the primary issue causing shortness of breath.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. High HDL cholesterol is considered beneficial as it helps remove LDL cholesterol from arteries, reducing the risk of plaque buildup. 2. Low HDL cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. 3. Low total cholesterol may not necessarily indicate a decreased risk, as it could be due to low levels of protective HDL cholesterol. 4. Low triglycerides, while generally considered good, do not directly indicate a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease like high HDL cholesterol does. In summary, high HDL cholesterol is the correct answer as it plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease by removing LDL cholesterol, whereas the other choices do not offer the same protective benefits.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: I must correct you on this question. The correct answer for the most appropriate action for a nurse to take when a client develops a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is not D. The correct answer should be C: Provide anticoagulant therapy. Anticoagulant therapy is the standard treatment for DVT to prevent the blood clot from getting larger and to reduce the risk of it breaking loose and causing a pulmonary embolism. Elevating the leg and applying compression can help with symptoms but are not the primary treatment for DVT. Massage is contraindicated as it can dislodge the blood clot.

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 because using the defrost setting on microwave ovens can help safely heat breast milk or formula for the infant without compromising its quality. This method ensures that the milk is heated evenly and prevents hot spots that could burn the baby's mouth. Choice B is incorrect because refrigerating partially used bottles can lead to bacterial growth and contamination. Choice C is incorrect as mixing water and concentrate in different ratios can result in either too diluted or too concentrated formula, which can be harmful to the infant. Choice D is incorrect as adding new formula to partially used bottles can also lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer oxygen. In ARDS, the primary issue is hypoxemia due to impaired gas exchange in the lungs. Administering oxygen helps to increase the oxygen levels in the blood, improving oxygenation to vital organs. Corticosteroids (B) are not indicated as they have not shown consistent benefit in ARDS treatment. Bronchodilators (C) are not effective as ARDS is not primarily a bronchoconstrictive disorder. Applying an ice pack to the chest (D) is not relevant and will not address the underlying hypoxemia. Administering oxygen is the most effective and essential intervention to correct hypoxemia in ARDS.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer antibiotics. In sepsis, timely administration of antibiotics is crucial to combat the underlying infection. Antibiotics target the bacteria causing the sepsis, helping to prevent further spread and worsening of the condition. Administering IV fluids (choice A) is important to maintain blood pressure, but antibiotics take precedence in treating the infection. Providing fluids (choice C) is also important but not the priority over antibiotics. Administering oxygen (choice D) may be necessary for respiratory support in severe cases of sepsis, but it does not address the root cause of the condition like antibiotics do.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Is there anything else you would like to mention?" This question allows the patient to share any additional information or concerns before concluding the interview. It shows empathy and ensures thorough communication. Choice A is not the best option as it may suggest the nurse is rushing or has overlooked something. Choice C is inappropriate as it lacks empathy and may make the patient feel rushed. Choice D is also incorrect as it shifts the focus to a different topic instead of allowing the patient to express any remaining issues or questions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Colace. When a client is immobilized and experiencing constipation, a stool softener like Colace is appropriate to prevent straining and discomfort. Advil and Anasaid are pain relievers, not laxatives. Clinocil is not a recognized medication. Colace is the best choice to address constipation in this scenario.