Which sign might a nurse observe in a client with a high ammonia level?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: coma. High ammonia levels can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, causing impaired brain function and potentially leading to coma. Edema (B) is typically associated with fluid retention, not high ammonia levels. Hypoxia (C) is a condition of low oxygen levels, not directly related to high ammonia levels. Polyuria (D) is excessive urination, which is not a common sign of high ammonia levels.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Place in a safe environment. This is the first priority to ensure the safety of the confused post-operative client. Placing the client in a safe environment prevents harm from falls or accidents. Reorienting the client (choice A) can come after ensuring safety. Administering pain relief (choices C and D) should be done based on assessment but is not the first priority when the client is confused.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer D is correct: 1. Empathy and respect: By saying "I respect your decision to choose surgery," you acknowledge her autonomy and decision-making. 2. Supportive approach: This response shows understanding and non-judgmental support for her choice. 3. Person-centered care: Recognizing her individual needs and choices is crucial in providing quality healthcare. Summary: A: Irrelevant and insensitive to her medical needs. B: Disregards her current situation and overlooks the complexity of weight loss. C: Implies a one-size-fits-all approach without considering her specific circumstances. D: Demonstrates respect, understanding, and support for her decision-making.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer pain relief. This is the priority action because managing pain is crucial in providing comfort and reducing distress for the client with a severe burn. Pain relief helps in improving the client's overall well-being and promotes better recovery. Administering corticosteroids (Choice B) is not the priority as pain relief takes precedence. Monitoring for infection (Choice C) is important but not the immediate priority. Applying dressings (Choice D) is also important but should come after administering pain relief.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because moving the wheelchair close and pivoting on the unaffected extremity is the safest way to transfer a client with hemiparesis. This method minimizes strain on the affected side and reduces the risk of falls. First, ensure the wheelchair is positioned close to the bed. Then, assist the client to pivot by placing weight on the unaffected side and using proper body mechanics. This technique maintains stability and prevents injury. Choice A is incorrect because standing and walking the client to the wheelchair puts excessive strain on the affected side, increasing the risk of falls. Choice C is incorrect as pivoting on the affected extremity can lead to injury and instability. Choice D is incorrect as having the client stand and push to the wheelchair can be dangerous and may cause further harm.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Purchase absorbent undergarments. For stress incontinence, which is caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles, absorbent undergarments can help manage symptoms. Kegel exercises (choice A) strengthen pelvic floor muscles but may not provide immediate relief. Constipation (choice C) can exacerbate incontinence but is not the primary intervention. Surgical treatments (choice D) are not typically recommended as a first-line intervention for stress incontinence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer IV fluids. In the case of shock, the first priority is to restore circulating volume to improve tissue perfusion. IV fluids help increase blood volume and improve oxygen delivery to vital organs, addressing the underlying cause of shock. Choice B (Administer oxygen) can be important but is not the first priority. Choice C (Place the client in a supine position) may worsen certain types of shock. Choice D (Monitor blood pressure) is important but not the first action needed to address shock. Administering IV fluids promptly can stabilize the client's condition and prevent further deterioration.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should first administer aspirin to a client with chest pain as it helps prevent blood clot formation during a possible heart attack. Aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of further blockage in the coronary arteries. Administering aspirin promptly can improve the client's outcomes. Performing an ECG, monitoring vital signs, or providing a meal plan are important but should come after administering aspirin in the initial management of chest pain to prioritize the client's safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Administer diuretics. The priority for a nurse caring for a client with pneumonia is to maintain adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory failure. Diuretics help reduce fluid overload in the lungs, improving gas exchange and oxygenation. Administering antibiotics (choice A) is important to treat the infection but not the top priority. Administering oxygen (choice B) is crucial for oxygenation, but diuretics take precedence to improve lung function. Administering corticosteroids (choice C) may be considered in certain cases to reduce inflammation, but it is not the primary priority.