Which is the most commonly used method in completed suicides?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Firearms are the most commonly used method in completed suicides, accounting for nearly 50% of all suicide deaths in the United States. Firearms are particularly lethal and result in a higher success rate compared to other methods. The quick and irreversible nature of firearm suicides contributes to their high prevalence. Additionally, the easy access to firearms in many households increases the likelihood of their use in suicide attempts.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Option C, which is to toilet the patient according to his pre-illness schedule, whether or not he feels the urge, is the best intervention by the nurse to help reduce episodes of bowel incontinence in this patient with subarachnoid hemorrhage. This strategy can help establish a routine and promote regular bowel movements, which may reduce the likelihood of bowel incontinence episodes. Asking the patient frequently if he has to have a bowel movement (Option A) may not be effective, as the patient may not always be able to accurately communicate their needs due to the underlying condition. Placing incontinence pads on the patient's bed and chair (Option B) may manage the consequences of incontinence but does not address the root cause. While taking care not to embarrass the patient when incontinent episodes occur (Option D) is important for maintaining the patient's dignity, it does not directly address the issue of reducing bowel incontinence episodes.

Correct Answer: E

Rationale: Inducing emesis or performing gastric lavage can increase the risk of aspiration. The best approach is supportive care, including oxygen and monitoring.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: For J.E., who suffered head injuries in a motor vehicle accident, appropriate nursing interventions should focus on holistic care to prevent complications and promote recovery. Option A includes skin care and position changes every 2 hours (q2h) and as needed, which is crucial for preventing pressure injuries in the immobile patient. Maintaining alignment of extremities helps prevent muscle contractures. Respiratory exercises are essential for preventing atelectasis and improving lung function in patients at risk for pneumonia due to decreased mobility. These interventions address the immediate needs of the patient and aim to prevent further complications related to immobility and head injury. Options B, C, and D lack the comprehensive approach to care provided in option A, making it the most appropriate choice for J.E.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presence of fluid in both lung bases, as indicated by the chest x-ray examination, suggests the possibility of pulmonary congestion or fluid accumulation in the lungs. Bilateral crackles, also known as rales, are a common clinical finding associated with pulmonary edema. Crackles are discontinuous, brief, popping sounds heard on auscultation of the lungs. These adventitious breath sounds occur when air passes through fluid in the small airways or alveoli. Therefore, the presence of bilateral crackles during the nurse's assessment would most reflect the x-ray examination findings of fluid in both lung bases. Fatigue, peripheral edema, and jugular vein distention may also be present in conditions involving fluid overload, such as heart failure, but bilateral crackles specifically point to the presence of fluid in the lungs.