Which practice is recommended to prevent human immune deficiency virus (HIV) transmission by health care workers?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of preventing HIV transmission by healthcare workers, the recommended practice is to use standard precautions, which include measures like proper hand hygiene, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (such as gloves and gowns), and safe handling of sharps. Standard precautions are designed to prevent the transmission of infections in healthcare settings by assuming that all patients could potentially have an infection, including HIV. Option A, wearing a mask within three feet of the client, is not specifically effective in preventing HIV transmission as the virus is not transmitted through the air like respiratory viruses. Option B, intentional, is a nonsensical choice and not relevant to HIV prevention. Option D, proliferative, is also unrelated to HIV transmission prevention. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare workers to have a clear understanding of standard precautions and their importance in infection control. By following these guidelines consistently, healthcare workers can protect both themselves and their patients from various infections, including HIV. Understanding and adhering to these practices is fundamental to maintaining a safe healthcare environment and providing quality patient care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Apply rubbing alcohol to plaques. Rubbing alcohol can be extremely drying and irritating to the skin, which can exacerbate the symptoms of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin. Applying rubbing alcohol can further irritate the skin, leading to increased discomfort and potentially worsening the condition. A) Teaching the client how to utilize UV radiation can actually be a helpful intervention for psoriasis. Controlled exposure to UV radiation can help to slow down the rapid skin cell turnover that occurs in psoriasis, reducing symptoms. C) Applying corticosteroids as ordered is a common and appropriate treatment for psoriasis. Corticosteroids help to reduce inflammation and can effectively manage psoriatic symptoms when used as prescribed by a healthcare provider. D) Urging the client to consider participating in support groups is also a beneficial intervention. Support groups can provide emotional support, coping strategies, and a sense of community for individuals living with psoriasis. This holistic approach can help individuals better manage their condition and improve their overall well-being. In an educational context, it is crucial for nursing students to understand the appropriate interventions for various health conditions like psoriasis. By comprehensively understanding the rationale behind each option, students can develop critical thinking skills and provide optimal care for patients with psoriasis. This rationale illustrates the importance of evidence-based practice and patient-centered care in nursing.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In caring for a client with AIDS and PCP, the nurse's priority assessment should be lung sounds (Option B). PCP is a type of pneumonia that primarily affects the lungs, causing symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Monitoring lung sounds is crucial to assess the severity of respiratory distress and the effectiveness of oxygenation. Skin turgor (Option A) is more indicative of hydration status and would be important in other situations like dehydration, but it is not the priority in a client with PCP. Radial pulses (Option C) and capillary refill (Option D) are important assessments for circulatory status, but in this case, respiratory assessment takes precedence due to the nature of PCP affecting the lungs directly. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind prioritizing assessments helps nurses provide timely and appropriate care to clients with complex conditions. By focusing on the most critical assessment first, nurses can intervene promptly and potentially prevent further complications in clients with AIDS and PCP.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Compartment syndrome. In this scenario, the client's symptoms indicate a potential compartment syndrome, a serious condition caused by increased pressure within a muscle compartment. The acute pain greater than the severity of the fracture, 'pins and needles' sensation distal to the injury, and weak/thready pulse but bounding on unaffected extremities are classic signs of compartment syndrome due to compromised blood flow and nerve function. Option A) Ischial tuberosity is incorrect as it pertains to a bony structure in the pelvis and is not related to the symptoms described. Option C) Broken arm syndrome is not a recognized medical condition, making it an incorrect distractor. Option D) Pulmonary embolism involves a blockage in the pulmonary artery, typically presenting with symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and cough, which are not evident in the client's case. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome is crucial for nurses to recognize and intervene promptly to prevent permanent damage to muscles and nerves. This case highlights the importance of thorough assessment, critical thinking, and swift action in emergency situations to provide optimal patient care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Mental state, which will NOT be utilized in a Braden Scale Assessment. The Braden Scale is a tool used to assess a patient's risk of developing pressure ulcers. The scale considers six parameters: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. In the context of long-term care, it is crucial to assess a patient's risk of developing pressure ulcers due to their decreased mobility and prolonged periods of immobility. Sensory perception is included in the Braden Scale because patients who have impaired sensation are at a higher risk of developing pressure ulcers as they may not be able to feel discomfort or pain from prolonged pressure on their skin. While mental state is essential for overall patient assessment and care, it is not a specific factor considered in the Braden Scale for assessing pressure ulcer risk. This is because mental state does not directly impact a patient's susceptibility to developing pressure ulcers, unlike the other factors included in the scale. Educationally, understanding the components of assessment tools like the Braden Scale is vital for nurses to provide comprehensive care to patients in long-term care settings. It ensures that nurses can accurately identify patients at risk for pressure ulcers and implement appropriate preventive measures to maintain their skin integrity and overall well-being.