Correct Answer: C

Rationale: It is crucial to have a complete set of surgical instruments for any surgical procedure to ensure patient safety and the success of the surgery. If the nurse notices that the surgical instrument tray is incomplete, the best course of action is to inform the sterile processing department immediately. By doing so, the missing instruments can be promptly provided, ensuring that the surgical team has all the necessary tools for the procedure. Proceeding with the procedure using incomplete instruments can compromise patient safety and the quality of care provided. Documenting the missing instruments in the surgical count log is important for record-keeping purposes but should not delay the immediate action of requesting additional instruments. Borrowing instruments from another OR is not recommended as it can create confusion, potential cross-contamination, and disrupt the workflow of another surgical team.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's best response when a patient asks about alternative treatment options is to provide the patient with information about those options, including their benefits and risks. It is important for the nurse to support the patient in their exploration of different treatment approaches and empower them to make informed decisions about their care. Dismissing the question, ignoring it, or discouraging alternative treatments are not appropriate responses and may hinder the patient's ability to make choices that align with their values and preferences. Therefore, providing information and facilitating an open discussion about alternative treatments is the most appropriate approach for the patient's best interest.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Having a tracheostomy means that a patient has an artificial opening in their neck to help them breathe. Therefore, any issues related to breathing, such as blockages in the tracheostomy tube or difficulty in clearing secretions, can pose a major problem for a patient with a tracheostomy. It is crucial to monitor the patient's respiratory status closely and intervene promptly if any breathing difficulties arise to prevent potential respiratory distress or complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Negligence is the failure to take proper care in doing something, which results in harm or injury to someone else. In this scenario, the client falling out of bed because side rails were not used indicates a lack of proper care or attention by the staff or caregiver responsible for the client. It shows a failure to protect the client from harm, which aligns with the definition of negligence. This situation does not fit the definitions of a felony, battery, or assault.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for a patient with difficulty swallowing due to end-stage ALS and concerns about choking is to refer the patient to a speech therapist for swallowing exercises and techniques (Choice B). Speech therapists are trained to assess and manage swallowing difficulties in patients, especially those with neurodegenerative diseases like ALS. They can provide specific exercises and strategies to help the patient swallow safely and reduce the risk of choking. This intervention focuses on addressing the underlying issue causing the difficulty swallowing and aims to improve the patient's quality of life by enhancing their ability to eat and drink. The other options are not as effective or appropriate in addressing the patient's concerns.