Which position is recommended for a patient experiencing difficulty breathing?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Fowler's position, where the head of the bed is elevated, is ideal for patients with breathing difficulties because it maximizes lung expansion and eases respiratory effort. Gravity assists the diaphragm's movement, reducing pressure on the chest and improving oxygen intake, which is critical in conditions like dyspnea. Prone position (lying face down) may help specific cases like ARDS but isn't generally recommended for most breathing issues. Supine position (flat on back) can restrict lung expansion, worsening the problem. Trendelenburg position (head lower than feet) is used for circulatory issues, not respiratory support, and could exacerbate breathing difficulties. Fowler's position aligns with physiological needs for better air exchange, making it the nurse's go-to choice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (ideally 40-60 per CDC guidelines) before and after patient care removes pathogens effectively, breaking the chain of infection. Wiping on a towel doesn't kill germs and may spread them. Using sanitizer only after care skips pre-care protection, risking contamination to the patient soap is superior for visible dirt or C. diff. Shaking hands for rapport, while friendly, isn't hygiene-focused and could transmit microbes. This rigorous washing is a fundamental nursing practice, safeguarding both patient and nurse from healthcare-associated infections.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A urinary catheter's primary purpose is to collect urine for analysis or drainage when a patient can't void naturally, aiding diagnosis or relieving retention. Medication administration isn't its role IVs or oral routes handle that. Blood pressure measurement uses cuffs, not catheters. Breathing assistance relates to respiratory devices, not urinary ones. Nurses insert catheters to monitor output, assess kidney function, or manage incontinence, making urine collection the core function in clinical practice, critical for patient assessment and care planning.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Providing oral care to an unconscious patient maintains oral health and prevents complications like infections (e.g., pneumonia) or sores by removing bacteria and keeping tissues moist. Preventing talking isn't relevant they're unconscious. Forcing liquids isn't the aim; hydration comes via other routes like IVs. Hospital-wide infection control benefits indirectly, but the focus is patient-specific health. Nurses use swabs or brushes regularly to combat dryness and microbial growth, a critical task in dependent care to safeguard respiratory and systemic wellness.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Keeping the environment clutter-free promotes safety for a visually impaired patient by minimizing trip hazards and easing navigation, critical for preventing falls. Frequent furniture rearrangement disorients, increasing risk. Dark floors obscure edges, making obstacles harder to spot contrast helps. Loud music distracts, not aids, safety. Nurses ensure clear pathways and consistent layouts, often adding tactile guides, to support safe mobility and independence, tailoring the space to the patient's sensory needs effectively.