Which factor may promote anxiety for a client undergoing a surgical procedure?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and adult medical surgical care, understanding factors that may promote anxiety in clients undergoing a surgical procedure is crucial for providing optimal patient care. The correct answer, option C) Unclear expectations, is a significant contributor to anxiety in surgical patients. Uncertainty about what to expect before, during, and after surgery can lead to heightened anxiety levels due to fear of the unknown, potential complications, and outcomes. Option A) Decreased mobility may not necessarily promote anxiety in the same way as unclear expectations. While decreased mobility can be a concern post-surgery, it is more related to physical limitations rather than psychological distress. Option B) Unfamiliar environment can also be stressful for patients, but typically, healthcare providers try to familiarize patients with the surgical environment to reduce anxiety. Therefore, it may not be the primary factor promoting anxiety. Option D) Decreased alertness may impact a patient's ability to understand and follow pre-operative instructions, but it is not as directly related to promoting anxiety as the uncertainty caused by unclear expectations. Educationally, understanding these factors helps healthcare professionals anticipate and address patient anxieties effectively. Providing clear, detailed information, setting expectations, and offering support can significantly reduce anxiety levels in surgical patients, enhancing their overall experience and outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) It is not available as a pre-exposure vaccine. Botulism antitoxin is used as a treatment for botulism, a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. However, it is important to note that the antitoxin is only used as a post-exposure treatment and is not available as a pre-exposure vaccine. Option A) It causes 9% hypersensitivity is incorrect because hypersensitivity reactions are possible with any medication, but this is not the main drawback specifically related to botulism antitoxin. Option B) It requires monthly booster dosages is incorrect because botulism antitoxin is typically given as a single dose rather than requiring monthly booster doses. Option C) It is not available from the CDC is incorrect because botulism antitoxin is indeed available from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) as part of emergency response supplies. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the limitations and appropriate use of medications like botulism antitoxin to ensure safe and effective patient care. Understanding that botulism antitoxin is not available as a pre-exposure vaccine emphasizes the importance of preventive measures such as proper food handling and hygiene practices to avoid exposure to the botulism toxin.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the priority diagnosis is option D) Anxiety related to unknown outcomes and perceived threats to body integrity. Anxiety is the most immediate concern as the patient's emotional state is hindering their ability to engage in a necessary discussion about colonoscopy. Addressing the patient's anxiety is crucial to establish effective communication and ensure they understand the importance of diagnostic procedures for their health. Option A is incorrect because while altered bowel patterns are a concern, the patient's emotional state takes precedence. Option B is incorrect as the patient's knowledge deficit is secondary to addressing their anxiety. Option C is incorrect as fluid volume deficit, though important, is not the immediate priority in this situation. Educationally, it is essential to recognize the impact of a patient's emotional state on their willingness to engage in healthcare discussions and procedures. Understanding and addressing patients' anxieties and fears is crucial for effective patient-centered care and promoting positive health outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate task to delegate to the nursing assistant is option C, which is to report the amount and type of food consumed from the tray. This task is suitable for delegation as it involves basic observation and documentation skills without requiring specialized knowledge or critical decision-making. Option A, assisting the patient to identify patterns of fatigue, involves a higher level of assessment and understanding of the patient's condition, which should be done by a licensed healthcare provider. Option B, recommending participation in a walking program, involves providing medical advice and guidance, which is beyond the scope of practice for a nursing assistant. Option D, checking the skin for redness and irritation after treatment, involves assessing for potential side effects of radiation therapy, which requires knowledge of skin changes related to radiation and the ability to recognize concerning findings, making it more appropriate for a licensed healthcare provider to perform. Educationally, it is essential for healthcare providers to understand the scope of practice for different members of the healthcare team to ensure safe and effective patient care. Delegation is a crucial skill that requires careful consideration of the task, the person performing it, and the patient's condition to optimize outcomes and promote patient safety.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In monitoring patients at risk for spinal cord compression due to tumor growth, the most likely early manifestation is sudden-onset back pain (Option A). This is because as the tumor grows and exerts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, it can cause pain due to inflammation, nerve compression, or stretching of structures. Motor loss (Option B) typically occurs as the compression progresses and affects the nerve pathways responsible for motor function. Constipation (Option C) and urinary hesitancy (Option D) are commonly seen in later stages of spinal cord compression when the tumor impairs the autonomic functions controlling bowel and bladder movements. From an educational standpoint, understanding these early signs and symptoms is crucial for timely intervention and prevention of permanent neurological deficits in patients at risk for spinal cord compression. Nurses and healthcare providers need to be vigilant in assessing for sudden-onset back pain and other neurological changes to promptly address any emerging issues.