Which points should a nurse includes in the discharge teaching plan for a client after cardiac surgery?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it addresses the importance of notifying the physician about a painless lump at the top of the chest incision, which could indicate a serious complication like a seroma or hematoma. This is crucial for early detection and intervention. A is incorrect because showers are generally allowed after cardiac surgery as long as the incisions are kept clean and dry. C is incorrect because support hose or elastic stockings are typically recommended to be worn during the day and removed at night to prevent swelling and promote circulation. D is incorrect because resuming sexual relations after cardiac surgery should be based on individual recovery and should be discussed with the healthcare provider, rather than a standard timeframe.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A: Respiratory acidosis Rationale: 1. Respiratory acidosis is caused by inadequate ventilation leading to increased PCO₂ and decreased pH. 2. Low pH indicates acidosis, and high PCO₂ indicates respiratory component. 3. Metabolic acidosis (B) results from non-respiratory causes. 4. Respiratory alkalosis (C) is characterized by high pH and low PCO₂. 5. Metabolic alkalosis (D) is caused by non-respiratory factors with high pH.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: An above-normal anti-deoxyribonucleic acid. In SLE, the body produces antibodies against its own DNA, leading to the presence of anti-dsDNA antibodies. Elevated levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies are specific to SLE, confirming the diagnosis. A: Increased total serum complement levels are seen in SLE due to complement activation but are not specific to SLE. C: Negative antinuclear antibody test is not consistent with SLE, as ANA positivity is common in SLE. D: Negative lupus erythematosus cell test is not specific to SLE as lupus erythematosus cells are not always present.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Risk for impaired skin integrity. Myocardial infarction, hypertension, and progressive systemic sclerosis can lead to impaired circulation and skin breakdown. Clients with these conditions are at risk for pressure ulcers due to decreased blood flow and compromised skin integrity. The other options, B: Imbalanced nutrition, C: Constipation, and D: Ineffective thermoregulation, do not directly relate to the client's conditions or the potential complications associated with them. Therefore, the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for this client would be A: Risk for impaired skin integrity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because reassessing the client's diet, medication, and lifestyle habits allows the nurse to identify any factors contributing to the elevated blood glucose levels. By identifying possible issues, the nurse can make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan to better manage the client's condition. Increasing medication dosage without understanding the root cause may lead to adverse effects. Simply documenting the elevated levels without taking proactive measures does not address the problem. Notifying the client's family is not the nurse's first action; the focus should be on assessing and addressing the client's needs.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C (280 to 295mOsm/kg) because serum osmolality is primarily determined by sodium, glucose, and blood urea nitrogen levels. Normal serum sodium range is 135-145 mEq/L, which corresponds to an osmolality range of 280-295 mOsm/kg. Choices A and B are incorrect as they do not align with normal serum sodium levels. Choice D is incorrect as it includes an excessively wide range that is not consistent with normal osmolality values.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: once a month after menstruation. Performing BSE at this time helps ensure consistent examination when breasts are less tender or swollen, making it easier to detect abnormalities. Performing it once a month ensures regular monitoring for any changes. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not provide the recommended frequency or timing for an effective BSE. BSE should be done monthly after menstruation to increase the chances of early detection of breast cancer.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because monitoring for swelling and heaviness of legs is essential in preventing falls, which can be caused by conditions like edema or circulatory issues. Swollen or heavy legs can affect mobility and balance, increasing the risk of falls. This intervention helps identify potential issues early and implement preventive measures. Choice A is incorrect as monitoring for chest pain and LDL levels pertains more to cardiovascular health than fall prevention. Choice C is incorrect because monitoring postural changes in BP is important for managing hypertension, not necessarily for preventing falls. Choice D is incorrect as monitoring temperature for mild fever is more related to identifying infections rather than preventing falls.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it addresses the importance of notifying the physician about a painless lump at the top of the chest incision, which could indicate a serious complication like a seroma or hematoma. This is crucial for early detection and intervention. A is incorrect because showers are generally allowed after cardiac surgery as long as the incisions are kept clean and dry. C is incorrect because support hose or elastic stockings are typically recommended to be worn during the day and removed at night to prevent swelling and promote circulation. D is incorrect because resuming sexual relations after cardiac surgery should be based on individual recovery and should be discussed with the healthcare provider, rather than a standard timeframe.