Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical findings of inspiratory crackles (also known as rales) and dullness to percussion are most consistent with a diagnosis of pneumonia. Inspiratory crackles are abnormal lung sounds heard on auscultation and are typically due to the presence of fluid or mucus in the alveoli. Dullness to percussion can indicate consolidation of lung tissue, which is a common finding in pneumonia where the alveolar spaces are filled with inflammatory exudate. These findings suggest localized lung pathology and are commonly observed in patients with pneumonia. Hemoptysis and pleuritic chest pain (Choice B) are more suggestive of pulmonary embolism or pleurisy. Clubbing of the fingers and cyanosis (Choice C) are signs of chronic hypoxemia and are not specific to pneumonia. Decreased breath sounds and tracheal deviation (Choice D) are more indicative of conditions such as a pneumoth

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Before finalizing and implementing the education plan for the staff nurse, it is important to have the plan reviewed by the nurse supervisor. The nurse supervisor is directly responsible for overseeing the staff nurses and their education and training needs. They have a good understanding of the staff nurse's current skills, areas for improvement, and training requirements. By involving the nurse supervisor in the review process, you can ensure that the education plan is aligned with the overall goals and needs of the nursing staff and the department. Additionally, the nurse supervisor can provide valuable input and insights to help tailor the education plan to meet the specific needs of the staff nurses under their supervision.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Long-term corticosteroid use in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can lead to osteoporosis, which is a common complication. Osteoporosis causes weakening of the bones, increasing the risk of fractures, particularly in weight-bearing bones such as the hip, spine, and wrist. Osteoporotic fractures are a significant concern in patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy, highlighting the importance of monitoring bone health and considering preventive measures such as calcium, Vitamin D supplementation, and regular bone density testing. While osteonecrosis of the femoral head and avascular necrosis of the talus can also occur as complications of corticosteroid use, osteoporotic fractures are more commonly associated with this type of therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Septic arthritis, on the other hand, is not directly related to corticosteroid use but can occur due to other factors such as joint infections.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The order for isotonic intravenous (IV) infusion indicates that the IV solution should have an osmolarity similar to that of blood serum, which is approximately 0.9 percent sodium chloride solution (normal saline). In the given choices, the closest option to isotonic solution is the 0.45 percent sodium chloride solution. This solution is hypotonic compared to blood serum, making it a suitable choice for isotonic IV infusion to prevent fluid shifts and maintain electrolyte balance in the patient. The other options, such as 5 percent dextrose in water (hypotonic), 10 percent dextrose in water (hypertonic), and 3 percent sodium chloride solution (hypertonic), do not match the requirement for an isotonic IV solution in this case.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The appropriate initial management for a conscious patient experiencing a syncopal episode (fainting) is to provide reassurance and assist the patient to a lying position. This is important to ensure adequate blood flow to the brain and to prevent further injury in case the patient faints again. Elevating the legs above the level of the heart is not recommended as a routine intervention for syncope. Administering intravenous fluids rapidly is not usually needed in the initial management of syncope without signs of dehydration or significant bleeding. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula is not necessary for most cases of syncope unless there are specific indications such as signs of respiratory distress.