Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a patient with a tension pneumothorax?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening condition where air accumulates in the pleural space and cannot escape, causing increased pressure in the chest cavity. This can lead to compression of the lung and major blood vessels, leading to inadequate oxygenation and circulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Battery refers to the intentional and offensive physical contact with another person without their consent, resulting in harm or injury. In this scenario, the victim clearly expressed their unwillingness to be touched or helped by saying, "Don't touch me!" multiple times. By ignoring the victim's refusal and physically forcing them into the ambulance, the EMT is committing battery even though they may have had good intentions to provide assistance. It is important for medical professionals, including EMTs, to always respect a person's right to refuse medical treatment or assistance, even in emergency situations.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Supplying the patient with paper tissues to use when touching doorknobs is the most appropriate response in this situation. This action acknowledges and respects the patient's anxiety while providing a practical solution to help her cope. Forcing her to touch doorknobs or discouraging her concerns would not address the underlying anxiety and may lead to increased distress. Encouraging her to scrub doorknobs with a strong antiseptic is not necessary and may exacerbate her anxiety. Explaining that her concerns are part of her illness may invalidate her feelings and is not a constructive way to address the situation. Supplying her with paper tissues allows her to feel more comfortable while still being able to navigate her daily activities.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Acknowledging the patient's emotions and offering empathy and support is the most appropriate response in this situation. It is important for the nurse to show understanding and compassion towards the patient, especially when they are feeling emotional about a recent diagnosis. By acknowledging the patient's emotions, the nurse can create a supportive environment that facilitates open communication and helps the patient feel heard and valued. This approach can also help build trust between the patient and the nurse, leading to better outcomes in terms of patient care and overall well-being. Ignoring the patient's emotions, telling them to stop being emotional, or changing the subject may make the patient feel dismissed or isolated, which could negatively impact their mental and emotional state. Thus, offering empathy and support is key in helping the patient cope with their emotions and navigate through their diagnosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors in the body. One common adverse effect of beta-blockers is bradycardia, or a slowed heart rate. Since the patient is being prescribed a beta-blocker for migraine headaches, it is important for the nurse to monitor closely for signs and symptoms of bradycardia such as dizziness, fatigue, and fainting. Monitoring the heart rate regularly and reporting any significant decrease to the healthcare provider is essential to prevent complications associated with bradycardia. Compared to the other options, bradycardia is the most relevant adverse effect to monitor in a patient prescribed a beta-blocker.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A discectomy is a surgical procedure commonly performed to decompress the nerve root by removing a portion of the herniated disc that is pressing on the nerve. In cases of herniated discs causing radicular symptoms (such as pain radiating down the leg), a discectomy can help alleviate the compression on the nerve, reduce symptoms, and improve the patient's condition. This procedure involves removing the portion of the disc that is herniated or bulging out to relieve pressure on the nerve root, allowing for improved function and reduced pain. Spinal fusion, laminectomy, and foraminotomy are other surgical procedures that are not typically performed for the direct decompression of the nerve root in cases of herniated discs at a specific level like the L5-S1 level.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Delegation by succession involves passing on responsibility and authority to a designated successor when the delegator is temporarily unavailable. In this scenario, the unit manager is planning to take her regular official business leave and has recommended her assistant unit manager to assume her position during her absence. This act follows the principle of succession, where the deputy or next in line is entrusted with the duties and decision-making power of the manager. This ensures a smooth transition of responsibilities and allows the operations to continue efficiently in the manager's absence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The right to considerate and respectful care irrespective of socio-economic status is applicable in this case because Mr. Steve is facing financial difficulties in paying for his medical bills. This right ensures that all patients receive proper treatment and care regardless of their ability to pay. It emphasizes that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their financial situation. In Mr. Steve's case, being referred to a social worker due to inability to pay should not impact the quality of care and respect he receives from healthcare providers.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Religious Affiliation is not typically included in the history taking process for diagnosing medical conditions. While a patient's religious beliefs may sometimes be relevant in certain situations, it is not a standard component of medical history. History taking usually includes aspects such as the history of present illness, social and family history, and past medical history as these can provide important information related to the patient's health condition.