Why should the nurse closely monitor older adults when they are receiving IV therapy?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and medical surgical nursing, closely monitoring older adults receiving IV therapy is crucial due to their increased susceptibility to fluid overload. The correct answer, option B, highlights this important point. Older adults often experience age-related physiological changes that can impact their ability to regulate fluid balance effectively. As individuals age, their renal function may decline, leading to decreased efficiency in filtering and excreting fluids. This diminished renal function can predispose older adults to fluid retention and potential overload when receiving IV therapy, making close monitoring essential to prevent complications such as heart failure or pulmonary edema. Option A, stating that older adults have less efficient defense mechanisms, while true to some extent due to age-related immune system changes, is not directly related to the need for monitoring during IV therapy. Option C, mentioning increased renal efficiency, is inaccurate as aging typically leads to decreased, rather than increased, renal efficiency. Option D, inadequate intake of dietary fiber, is irrelevant to the specific issue of fluid overload during IV therapy in older adults. Educationally, understanding the unique physiological changes in older adults is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. By recognizing the increased risk of fluid overload in this population, nurses can implement appropriate monitoring strategies and interventions to ensure optimal outcomes when administering IV therapy to older adults.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) External radioactive contamination. When the nurse requests individuals to remove all garments before entering a house or shelter, they are aiming to eliminate external radioactive contamination. This type of contamination refers to radioactive particles that may be present on the surface of clothing and could potentially pose a health risk if brought indoors. Option A) Internal radiologic contamination is not the correct answer in this situation as the focus is on external rather than internal contamination. Internal radiologic contamination occurs when radioactive material is ingested, inhaled, or absorbed into the body. Option B) External vesicant contamination involves exposure to chemicals that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. This type of contamination is not related to the removal of garments to prevent radiation exposure. Option D) Cross-contamination typically refers to the transfer of harmful microorganisms from one person or surface to another, which is not the concern in this context. Understanding the importance of preventing external radioactive contamination is crucial in healthcare settings, especially in situations where individuals may have been exposed to radiation and need to prevent further spread of radioactive particles. Nurses and healthcare professionals must be aware of proper decontamination protocols to ensure the safety of both patients and themselves.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the field of pharmacology, understanding triage assessments is crucial for nurses to effectively prioritize patient care. In this case, the correct answer is B) Immediate, as it signifies the client's need for treatment right away. This is typically reserved for patients who require prompt intervention to prevent further deterioration or harm. Option A) Delayed indicates patients who can safely wait for treatment without compromising their health. Option C) Minimal refers to patients with minor injuries or illnesses that do not require immediate attention. Option D) Expectant is used for patients whose injuries are so severe that survival is unlikely, and they require comfort care. Educationally, it's important for nurses to grasp the significance of triage categories to provide timely and appropriate care based on the patient's condition. Understanding these categories ensures that resources are allocated efficiently during emergencies and that critical cases are addressed promptly. This knowledge is vital in medical-surgical nursing practice to enhance patient outcomes and prioritize care effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate healthcare professional to address the topic of explaining screening exams and diagnostic testing for common cancers would be the nurse practitioner. The nurse practitioner has advanced training in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and diagnostic reasoning, making them well-equipped to discuss the technical aspects of cancer screening and diagnostic procedures. They can provide in-depth explanations, answer questions, and guide individuals on the importance of early detection. The other options - LPN/LVN, RN, and nutritionist - are not typically trained to the same extent as nurse practitioners in cancer screening and diagnostic testing. LPN/LVNs and RNs may not have the advanced knowledge required to provide detailed information on these topics. A nutritionist, while valuable for discussing dietary habits and cancer prevention, may not have the expertise in medical procedures and testing related to cancer detection. By assigning the nurse practitioner to this task, the community health center can ensure that the audience receives accurate, evidence-based information on cancer screening and diagnostic testing, ultimately contributing to promoting early detection and improving health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) During preparation, drugs may be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. This is a major consideration when assigning staff to patients receiving chemotherapy because many chemotherapeutic drugs are hazardous substances that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled during preparation. Staff must follow strict safety protocols to prevent exposure and ensure their own safety. Option B) Many chemotherapeutics are vesicants, is incorrect because while some chemotherapeutic drugs can indeed be vesicants, the major consideration in this context is the potential for absorption through the skin or inhalation during preparation. Option C) Chemotherapeutics are frequently given through central venous access devices, is incorrect because the route of administration is not the primary consideration when assigning staff to patients receiving chemotherapy. Option D) Oral and venous routes are the most common, is incorrect as it does not address the specific safety concern related to the handling of chemotherapeutic drugs. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the unique hazards associated with handling chemotherapeutic drugs to ensure their safety and the safety of patients. Proper training, adherence to safety protocols, and awareness of potential risks are essential components of caring for patients receiving chemotherapy.