Which characteristics describe unstable angina (select all that apply)?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Unstable angina is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention as it can be a precursor to a heart attack. Option B, "Unpredictable and unrelieved by rest," is the correct answer because unstable angina is characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs unpredictably, often at rest or with minimal exertion, and is not relieved by rest or medication. This type of angina is a warning sign of an impending heart attack and is considered a medical emergency. Option A, "Usually precipitated by exertion," is incorrect for unstable angina as this description aligns more with stable angina, where chest pain is typically triggered by physical exertion or stress but subsides with rest. Unstable angina, on the other hand, occurs at rest and is not predictable based on physical activity. Option C, "Usually occurs in response to coronary artery spasm," is incorrect because unstable angina is more commonly associated with atherosclerotic plaque rupture and partial occlusion of a coronary artery, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, rather than coronary artery spasm. Option D, "Occurs only when the person is recumbent," is also incorrect as unstable angina can occur at any time, regardless of the person's position. It is the unpredictable nature of the symptoms that differentiates unstable angina from other forms of angina. In an educational context, understanding the characteristics of unstable angina is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in emergency and cardiology settings. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of unstable angina can help in prompt diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent a potential heart attack. Students learning about cardiovascular physiology need to grasp these distinctions to provide effective care to patients with cardiac conditions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Preparing a patient for thoracic surgery involves a comprehensive approach to ensure optimal outcomes. The correct answer is D) All of the above. Pre-operative teaching is essential to inform the patient about the surgical procedure, what to expect during recovery, and how to participate in their own care post-surgery. Respiratory exercises are crucial to optimize lung function, prevent post-operative complications like atelectasis or pneumonia, and promote quicker recovery. Nutritional support is important to ensure the patient is well-nourished before surgery, which can improve wound healing, immune function, and overall recovery. Option A) Pre-operative teaching is crucial in empowering the patient to actively participate in their care, reduce anxiety, and improve outcomes. Option B) Respiratory exercises specifically target the respiratory system, which is vital for thoracic surgeries that can impact lung function. Option C) Nutritional support is important, but alone may not adequately prepare a patient for thoracic surgery without addressing other aspects like education and respiratory function. In an educational context, understanding the holistic approach to preparing a patient for thoracic surgery is essential for healthcare providers. Teaching patients about their upcoming surgery, engaging them in respiratory exercises, and ensuring proper nutrition are key components of pre-operative care that can positively impact surgical outcomes and patient recovery.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Both A and B (Cough and Weight loss) because tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body. The clinical manifestations of TB include a persistent cough that may produce bloody or purulent sputum, and weight loss due to the body's efforts to fight the infection, leading to loss of appetite and energy. Option A) Cough is incorrect because while it is a common symptom of TB, it is not the only clinical manifestation. Option B) Weight loss is also incorrect because although it is a significant symptom of TB, it alone does not encompass all the clinical manifestations of the disease. Option D) None of the above is incorrect as both cough and weight loss are key clinical features of TB. In an educational context, understanding the clinical manifestations of TB is crucial for healthcare professionals to recognize, diagnose, and treat the disease promptly. By knowing that TB presents with a combination of symptoms such as cough and weight loss, healthcare providers can initiate appropriate testing and treatment to prevent further spread of the infection and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Intermittent claudication is the crampy pain in the extremities that develops with little exertion due to arterial insufficiency. This is the correct answer (C) because it directly reflects the characteristic symptom associated with intermittent claudication, which is caused by inadequate blood flow to the muscles during exercise due to narrowed arteries. Option A is incorrect because it describes an embolism, not intermittent claudication. Option B is incorrect as it describes edema, a condition related to fluid accumulation, not arterial insufficiency. Option D is incorrect as it describes cyanosis, a bluish discoloration due to poor oxygenation, not the pain associated with intermittent claudication. In an educational context, understanding the symptoms of intermittent claudication is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working with patients at risk for peripheral artery disease. Recognizing this symptom can lead to early detection and appropriate management, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) emphasize foods that are low in sodium. This option is the most appropriate because it directly addresses the goal of helping Mr. Owens comply with his 5-g sodium diet. By emphasizing foods that are low in sodium, the nurse is providing a practical and sustainable solution for Mr. Owens to manage his sodium intake effectively. Option A) asking his wife to add no salt when cooking may not be feasible or realistic for Mr. Owens and his family. It may lead to dissatisfaction with meals and non-compliance with the diet. Option B) telling him that salt substitutes are readily available is not the best choice as salt substitutes may contain potassium which can be harmful to individuals with certain health conditions. Option C) suggesting he salt his food lightly is also not ideal as it does not align with the strict 5-g sodium diet requirement. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of individualized dietary recommendations and the role of healthcare professionals in providing practical guidance to patients. It emphasizes the significance of promoting healthy eating habits while considering the specific needs and limitations of each patient. By choosing the correct answer, students learn the importance of tailored interventions in promoting patient adherence to dietary restrictions for better health outcomes.