Which condition places a client at risk for a high ammonia level?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: cirrhosis. Cirrhosis leads to impaired liver function, causing the liver to be unable to effectively metabolize ammonia, leading to high ammonia levels in the blood. Renal failure (choice A) is associated with high creatinine levels, not ammonia. Psoriasis (choice B) is a skin condition unrelated to ammonia levels. Lupus (choice C) is an autoimmune disease affecting various organs, not directly linked to high ammonia levels. In summary, cirrhosis is the only condition among the options that directly impacts liver function and can lead to high ammonia levels in the blood.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer anticoagulants. Anticoagulants help prevent the blood clot from getting larger and reduce the risk of it breaking loose and causing a pulmonary embolism. Other choices are incorrect because B: Monitoring vital signs alone does not treat the DVT, C: Providing bed rest can increase the risk of complications like pulmonary embolism, and D: Administering fibrinolytics is not the first-line treatment for DVT.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Creatinine. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and excreted by the kidneys. An elevated creatinine level indicates impaired kidney function, making it a key indicator for early detection of renal failure. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) can also be elevated in renal failure, but creatinine is a more specific and sensitive marker. Sodium and potassium levels are not directly related to renal failure detection.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, removing the client from the cold environment. This is because hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, and being in a cold environment exacerbates this process. By removing the client from the cold environment, the nurse helps stop further heat loss. Warming the client slowly (A) can be detrimental as rapid rewarming can lead to complications. Providing a warm environment (C) and applying warm blankets (D) are important interventions but should come after removing the client from the cold environment to prevent further heat loss.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Provide tracheostomy care. This is the priority because maintaining the patency of the airway is crucial in a client with a tracheostomy. Tracheostomy care includes monitoring for any signs of respiratory distress, ensuring the tube is secure, assessing for any obstructions, and providing appropriate humidification. Suctioning the airway (choice B) and suctioning the tracheostomy (choice D) are important interventions but come after ensuring proper tracheostomy care. Changing the dressing (choice C) is also important but not as immediate as ensuring the airway remains clear and functional.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer IV fluids. In shock, the priority nursing action is to restore intravascular volume to improve tissue perfusion. IV fluids help increase blood pressure and cardiac output, addressing the underlying cause of shock. Monitoring vital signs (B) is important but administering fluids takes precedence. Administering fluids (C) is a general term and does not specify the urgency of IV fluids. Administering blood transfusion (D) may be indicated in certain types of shock but is not the initial priority.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) can cause adrenal insufficiency. 2. Corticosteroids help prevent adrenal insufficiency in TPN patients. 3. Monitoring corticosteroid administration ensures adrenal function. 4. Monitoring blood glucose or serum glucose levels is important but not specific to TPN. 5. Dehydration can be monitored but is not directly related to TPN.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Provide cooling measures. When caring for a client with hyperthermia, the nurse's priority is to lower the body temperature to prevent further complications. Providing cooling measures such as removing excess clothing, using fans, applying cool compresses, and encouraging hydration helps to reduce the body temperature effectively. Administering antipyretics (A and D) may be considered in some cases, but cooling measures are more immediate and effective. Administering corticosteroids (C) is not indicated in the treatment of hyperthermia. Cooling measures directly target the elevated body temperature, making it the top priority in managing hyperthermia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. When a client refuses medication, the nurse should document the refusal for legal and communication purposes. Informing the healthcare provider ensures ongoing assessment and potential alternatives. Choice A lacks communication with the healthcare team. Choice B may not address the underlying issue. Choice C assumes alternative treatment is necessary without further evaluation.