Which of the following structures is responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes from undigested food residue, forming feces?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The large intestine, also known as the colon, is responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes from undigested food residue that passes through the digestive system after it has been processed in the small intestine. As the waste material moves through the colon, water is absorbed, and the remaining material forms feces. The feces are then stored until they are eliminated from the body through the rectum and anus. The liver, stomach, and pancreas play important roles in digestion and nutrient absorption, but the specific function of absorbing water and forming feces is carried out by the large intestine.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Malpractice is a type of tort that involves professional negligence or misconduct by a professional such as a nurse that results in harm to a patient. In this scenario, failing to obtain informed consent before performing a procedure is considered a breach of the standard of care expected from a healthcare professional, which falls under malpractice. This failure to obtain informed consent deprives the patient of the right to make an informed decision about their treatment and can lead to legal consequences for the nurse.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for managing hepatic encephalopathy in this patient receiving palliative care for end-stage liver disease is to administer lactulose or other ammonia-lowering agents to reduce ammonia levels. Hepatic encephalopathy is believed to be primarily caused by the accumulation of ammonia in the bloodstream due to compromised liver function. Lactulose works by acidifying the gut lumen, which facilitates the excretion of ammonia in the form of ammonium ions. By reducing ammonia levels, hepatic encephalopathy symptoms, such as confusion and altered mental status, can be improved. Initiating other supportive measures like managing precipitating factors, maintaining hydration, and addressing nutritional issues should also be part of the holistic approach in managing hepatic encephalopathy in palliative care. However, addressing the underlying cause by reducing ammonia levels with lactulose is the priority intervention in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are known to have anticholinergic effects, which can lead to various cardiovascular side effects, including orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, and potential hypertension. While hypotension is a possible adverse effect, hypertension is more commonly associated with TCAs. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to monitor the patient for signs of hypertension, such as elevated blood pressure readings, to prevent any adverse outcomes and ensure the patient's safety while on this medication.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Maintaining patient confidentiality is a foundational principle in healthcare ethics. Nurses are obligated to keep all information about patients confidential, which means not disclosing any patient-related information to unauthorized individuals. This includes refraining from discussing patient cases with others who are not directly involved in the care of the patient. Sharing patient information without consent can be a breach of trust and privacy, which can have legal and ethical implications. Therefore, in order to uphold the principle of confidentiality, nurses must keep all matters about the patient as a secret.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a postpartum client exhibiting signs of anxiety, restlessness, and palpitations, it is essential to prioritize notifying the healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition such as postpartum preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, or postpartum cardiomyopathy, which require urgent medical attention. It is crucial to rule out any life-threatening conditions and ensure the client receives appropriate treatment promptly. While relaxation techniques and deep breathing exercises can be helpful for anxiety management in some cases, in this situation, the priority is to ensure the client's safety and well-being by seeking medical evaluation and intervention. Administering a benzodiazepine without consulting the healthcare provider first could potentially mask symptoms or interact with other medications the client may be taking, making it unsafe to proceed without professional guidance.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The response indicating Annie's present condition would be option A. This is because the symptoms mentioned in option A, such as experiencing vertigo, nausea, and nystagmus when sitting, point towards a vestibular disorder. These are symptoms commonly associated with conditions like Meniere's disease or vestibular neuritis, which can cause balance issues and feelings of dizziness. These symptoms are more indicative of Annie's current health status compared to the other options which focus on past or unrelated issues, such as ear pain during travel or impaired hearing since birth. The information provided in option A gives a more direct insight into Annie's present condition, making it the most appropriate response.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The Epidemiologic Triad model focuses on identifying the causative factors of diseases, particularly infectious diseases. The three components of the triad are the external agent, the susceptible host, and the environment. These factors interact to result in the occurrence of disease. Treatment Regimen, on the other hand, is not one of the causative factors but rather a response to manage and treat the disease once it has occurred. While treatment is essential, it is not part of the factors that contribute to the initial development of the disease within the Epidemiologic Triad model.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by increased glomerular permeability, leading to protein loss in the urine. One of the hallmarks of nephrotic syndrome is hypoalbuminemia, which refers to low levels of albumin in the blood due to its excessive loss in the urine. This loss of albumin results in decreased oncotic pressure, leading to edema and ascites. Hematuria (choice A) is not typically found in nephrotic syndrome but may be present in other kidney conditions. Hyperkalemia (choice C) is not specific to nephrotic syndrome and may be more common in conditions affecting potassium regulation. Hypocalcemia (choice D) is also not a characteristic feature of nephrotic syndrome.