Your patient is often fatigued as a result of having anemia. She asks you why she is fatigued. You respond by saying

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Decreased oxygen-carrying capability of the blood. Anemia is a condition characterized by a decreased number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. This results in fatigue because the body's tissues and organs do not receive an adequate supply of oxygen to function optimally. Option A) Destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis) is not the primary cause of fatigue in anemia. While hemolysis can lead to anemia, the underlying issue is the decreased oxygen-carrying capability of the blood. Option B) Paleness of the skin is a symptom of anemia due to decreased oxygen levels in the blood, but it does not directly explain why the patient is fatigued. Option C) Lack of nutritional intake of essential nutrients like iron or B12 can lead to certain types of anemia, but the root cause of fatigue in anemia is the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Educationally, understanding the relationship between anemia and fatigue is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively educate patients about their condition. By knowing the underlying mechanisms of anemia-related fatigue, nurses can provide appropriate interventions and support to help manage the patient's symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of septic shock, monitoring airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC) would have the highest priority. This is because septic shock is a life-threatening condition characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to infection, leading to severe hypotension and inadequate tissue perfusion. Monitoring ABC ensures that the patient's vital functions are maintained and supported, which is crucial in stabilizing their condition and preventing further deterioration. Monitoring temperature (Option A) is important in septic shock to assess for fever, a common symptom, but it is not the highest priority compared to ensuring the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation are intact. Monitoring pupillary reaction (Option B) is more relevant in neurological assessments and is not as critical in the immediate management of septic shock. Monitoring ANA and RF levels (Option D) is not a priority in the acute phase of septic shock. These laboratory tests are more related to autoimmune conditions and would not guide the immediate resuscitative actions needed in septic shock. In an educational context, understanding the priority of interventions in managing septic shock is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers in providing timely and effective care to critically ill patients. Emphasizing the ABCs as the foundation of patient assessment and care in emergencies like septic shock reinforces the principles of prioritizing interventions based on the patient's immediate needs to achieve the best outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Aneurysms are often asymptomatic. This response is accurate because ruptured aneurysms can indeed be asymptomatic until a catastrophic event occurs. A physical exam may not always detect an aneurysm, especially if it is small or located deep within the body where it cannot be easily felt. Option A) The physician must have misread the x-ray, is incorrect because an aneurysm may not always be visible on an x-ray, especially if it has not yet ruptured. Option B) The aneurysm must have developed since the physical, is also incorrect because aneurysms can develop over time without showing symptoms. Option D) Do not be too concerned because this happens all the time, is not an appropriate response as it dismisses the seriousness of the situation and fails to provide the patient with valuable information. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding that some medical conditions, like aneurysms, can be silent threats that may not present with symptoms until a critical event occurs. It emphasizes the need for thorough diagnostic testing and patient education to enhance early detection and prevention of potentially life-threatening conditions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is option B) You breathe through a mouthpiece into a spirometer until all air in your lungs is expelled; then you take a deep breath through the mouthpiece. This is done three times and a computer calculates the capacity of your lungs. This answer is correct because it accurately describes the procedure of a pulmonary function test (PFT). During a PFT, the individual breathes into a spirometer to measure lung function parameters such as lung capacity, volume, and flow rates. The process involves both exhalation and inhalation maneuvers to assess different aspects of lung function. Option A is incorrect because it oversimplifies the procedure by stating that you simply breathe into a spirometer to measure lung capacity without mentioning the specific steps involved in a PFT. Option C is incorrect because it only mentions the use of a computer to measure volume and vital capacity without detailing the actual process of performing a PFT. Option D is incorrect because it describes a method that is not used in pulmonary function testing. Inserting a tube into the lungs while the individual is asleep is not a standard or safe practice for conducting PFTs. In an educational context, understanding how a pulmonary function test is performed is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately interpret the results and make appropriate clinical decisions for patients with respiratory conditions. Proper knowledge of PFT procedures ensures accurate assessment of lung function and effective management of respiratory disorders.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the case of aortic insufficiency, after aortic valve repair, the physician would likely prescribe Heparin. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that helps prevent blood clot formation post-surgery. This is crucial as patients undergoing valve repair are at risk for clot formation due to changes in blood flow dynamics. The other options (Ativan, Haldol, Thorazine) are not appropriate in this context. Ativan and Haldol are used for anxiety and psychiatric conditions, while Thorazine is an antipsychotic medication. These medications are not indicated for the treatment of aortic insufficiency or post-surgical management. From an educational perspective, understanding the rationale behind post-surgical medication choices is essential for nursing students and healthcare professionals caring for patients with cardiovascular conditions. Knowing the appropriate medications and their indications can help ensure optimal patient outcomes and prevent complications post-surgery.