You have been caring for a patient with osteomyelitis. In preparing the patient for discharge, you include teaching about

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of caring for a patient with osteomyelitis, the correct answer, D) All of the above, is the most comprehensive option for discharge teaching. A) The importance of multiple-week treatment with antibiotics is crucial as osteomyelitis often requires a prolonged course of antibiotics to fully eradicate the infection. This ensures patient compliance and effective treatment. B) Teaching about the side effects and interactions of medications is essential for patient safety and adherence to the prescribed treatment plan. Patients need to be aware of potential adverse effects and drug interactions to report them promptly. C) Educating the patient on symptoms that necessitate contacting healthcare providers is vital for early detection of complications or worsening infection. This empowers the patient to seek timely medical intervention, which is crucial in managing osteomyelitis effectively. The incorrect options lack the comprehensive approach needed for a patient with osteomyelitis. Option A and B focus on specific aspects but do not cover all essential areas of discharge teaching. Option C is important but alone is not sufficient for comprehensive patient education. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of thorough discharge teaching for patients with complex conditions like osteomyelitis. It emphasizes the need for holistic patient education to ensure optimal outcomes and patient safety post-discharge.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, pain is typically experienced with activity. This is because the inflammation in the joints is aggravated by movement, leading to increased pain during physical exertion. The correct answer, option A, aligns with the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis where joint inflammation is triggered by movement and use of the affected joints. Option B, stating that pain is only upon awakening, is incorrect because rheumatoid arthritis pain is not limited to a specific time of day. Option C, suggesting pain late in the evening, is also incorrect as the pain experienced in rheumatoid arthritis is not restricted to a particular time but is more related to activity levels. Option D, stating that pain is present all day without remission, is too generalized and does not accurately reflect the characteristic pattern of pain in rheumatoid arthritis. In an educational context, understanding the patterns of pain in rheumatoid arthritis is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively manage and support patients with this condition. Educating patients about how their pain is related to activity can help them make informed decisions about managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life. It is essential for nurses and other healthcare professionals to have a comprehensive understanding of rheumatoid arthritis to provide holistic care to patients with this chronic condition.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct nursing intervention is to choose option D: report the findings to the provider. This is crucial because the patient is experiencing severe incisional pain along with elevated blood pressure, tachycardia, tachypnea, and pallor, which may indicate a potential complication post-spinal anesthesia. These vital signs and symptoms suggest a possible spinal headache, hypotension, or other complications that require immediate attention from the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Option A (medicating the patient for pain) is not appropriate at this time without further assessment and evaluation by the provider to determine the cause of the pain and the appropriate treatment. Administering pain medication without addressing the underlying issue can mask symptoms and delay necessary interventions. Option B (placing the patient in a high Fowler position and administering oxygen) is not the priority in this situation as the patient's oxygen saturation is not provided, and the primary concern is the severe incisional pain along with the abnormal vital signs. Option C (placing the patient in a reverse Trendelenburg position and opening the IV line) is not indicated based on the patient's symptoms and vital signs. This intervention does not address the underlying issue of severe incisional pain and abnormal vital signs, which require immediate attention and further evaluation by the healthcare provider. Educationally, this scenario emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and prioritization in nursing care. It highlights the need to assess and recognize abnormal findings, prioritize interventions based on the patient's condition, and collaborate with the healthcare team to ensure timely and appropriate management of postoperative complications. Reporting critical findings to the provider promptly is essential in ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) sensory deprivation. Sensory deprivation occurs when a person is deprived of normal sensory stimuli, leading to confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations. In the case of the 80-year-old patient with an MRSA infection in isolation, the lack of social interaction, limited stimuli, and restricted environment can contribute to sensory deprivation, resulting in the changes in mental status observed by the nurse. Option A) a fluid and electrolyte imbalance is incorrect because the patient's symptoms are not indicative of this imbalance. Option B) a stimulating environment is incorrect as an overly stimulating environment can exacerbate confusion and hallucinations in individuals experiencing sensory deprivation. Option D) sundowning refers to increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon or evening, usually seen in patients with dementia, and is not applicable to this scenario. Educationally, understanding the impact of sensory deprivation on patients' mental status is crucial for nurses caring for individuals in isolation or restricted environments. Nurses must be vigilant in recognizing signs of sensory deprivation and implementing interventions to promote sensory stimulation and prevent its negative effects on patients' mental well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In middle age, a primary developmental task involves rediscovering or developing satisfaction in one's relationship with a significant other. This is because as individuals reach middle age, they often focus on nurturing and strengthening their relationships, including their romantic partnerships. This developmental task is crucial for emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction during this stage of life. Option A, learning and acquiring new skills and information, is not primarily a developmental task of middle age. While learning can be a lifelong process, in middle age, individuals may be more focused on applying existing skills rather than acquiring entirely new ones. Option C, relying strongly upon spiritual beliefs, while important for some individuals, is not universally a primary developmental task of middle age. Spiritual beliefs can be a source of support and guidance for many people, but they may not be the central focus of development for everyone in middle age. Option D, risk-taking and its perceived consequences, is also not a primary developmental task of middle age. While taking calculated risks can be a part of personal growth at any age, in middle age, individuals may be more concerned with stability and security rather than engaging in risky behaviors. Educationally, understanding the specific developmental tasks of different life stages can help healthcare professionals provide more holistic and effective care to patients. By recognizing the unique challenges and priorities of middle-aged individuals, healthcare providers can offer tailored support and interventions to promote their well-being during this stage of life.