Which of the following actions is appropriate for managing a conscious patient with a suspected stroke?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Activating emergency medical services (EMS) for rapid transport to a stroke center is the most appropriate action for managing a conscious patient with a suspected stroke. Time is critical in stroke care, and receiving specialized treatment at a stroke center as soon as possible can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients. EMS providers are trained to recognize the signs of stroke and can begin essential pre-hospital care measures while en route to the hospital. Administering aspirin immediately is not recommended without medical evaluation, as certain types of strokes (such as hemorrhagic strokes) can be worsened by aspirin. Placing the patient in a supine position may not be ideal, as maintaining an elevated position can help prevent aspiration in stroke patients. Encouraging the patient to eat and drink is not appropriate, as swallowing difficulties are common in stroke patients and can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia characterized by wide QRS complexes and absence of P waves on electrocardiogram (ECG). Patients with VT may present with symptoms such as chest pain, dyspnea, and syncope due to reduced cardiac output and ineffective pumping of the heart. VT is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent hemodynamic compromise and potential cardiac arrest. Stable angina typically presents with chest pain that is provoked by exertion and relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregularly irregular rhythm with absent P waves on ECG. Supraventricular tachycardia typically presents with a narrow QRS complex on ECG.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Ella's statement "I will hang myself" directly indicates a desire and intent to commit suicide. This is classified as a suicidal intent, which is a serious concern that requires immediate attention and intervention. It is crucial to take any mention or indication of suicide seriously and seek help from mental health professionals or crisis intervention services.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct action to prioritize during the initial assessment when preparing to assist with a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedure for a patient in cardiac arrest is to assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs). This involves quickly checking the patient's airway for any obstructions, assessing their breathing for signs of breathing difficulties or absence of breathing, and evaluating their circulation by checking for a pulse. This step is crucial in determining the need for immediate intervention, such as clearing the airway, providing rescue breaths, or initiating chest compressions. By prioritizing the assessment of the ABCs, the nurse can promptly identify and address life-threatening issues to improve the patient's chances of survival during a cardiac arrest situation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Respiratory depression resulting from drug overdose typically leads to a decrease in the respiratory rate, known as bradypnea. This is characterized by abnormally slow breathing, which can be dangerous as it may lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood. Bradypnea indicates a slowing down of the respiratory drive, in contrast to hyperventilation, biot's respiration, or tachypnea. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor a patient experiencing respiratory depression for signs of bradypnea and intervene promptly to prevent further complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterized by multiple, hyperpigmented, velvety plaques typically seen in flexural areas such as the axillae, neck, and groin. These lesions are often associated with obesity and insulin resistance. The appearance of acanthosis nigricans is distinct from other skin conditions such as seborrheic keratosis, dermatofibroma, and epidermal nevus. Acanthosis nigricans is commonly seen in conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome due to the insulin resistance that leads to the overgrowth of keratinocytes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Providing means to evaluate services is the most appropriate measure to ensure patient satisfaction with the delivery of health services. This can be done through patient surveys, feedback forms, or other evaluation methods. By systematically collecting and analyzing feedback from patients, healthcare providers can assess the quality of their services, identify areas for improvement, and address any concerns or issues raised by patients. This proactive approach allows for continuous monitoring and improvement of the healthcare services provided, leading to enhanced patient satisfaction and overall quality of care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Uterine hyperstimulation, also known as tachysystole, is a condition where the uterus contracts too frequently and/or too forcefully, leading to a decreased uterine blood flow. This can result in maternal fatigue and decreased oxygenation to the fetus, as mentioned in the scenario. Uterine hyperstimulation can be caused by several factors, including the excessive use of uterotonic medications, such as oxytocin, or the presence of uterine abnormalities.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Famotidine belongs to a class of medications known as H2 blockers which work to reduce the production of stomach acid. Antacids, on the other hand, work by neutralizing stomach acid. Taking antacids in conjunction with famotidine can decrease the effectiveness of famotidine as they can interfere with its absorption. Therefore, it is important for the patient to avoid taking antacids while on famotidine therapy to ensure optimal treatment outcomes for gastric acid suppression.