Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Hypoxemia: Atelectasis impairs gas exchange, leading to decreased oxygen levels (hypoxemia) due to collapsed alveoli. This is a hallmark finding. Pleural effusion: A pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space and is not directly related to atelectasis. Atelectasis is alveolar collapse and does not cause fluid buildup. Dysphagia: Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) is not a direct symptom of atelectasis. It may be seen in stroke or esophageal disorders. Apnea: Apnea (cessation of breathing) is not a typical sign of atelectasis. Atelectasis causes shallow breathing, dyspnea, and hypoxia rather than complete cessation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Consider what is important in any given situation: Critical thinking involves analyzing the situation, prioritizing information, and making decisions based on what is most important for patient safety and care. Reads and follows the health care provider's orders: While following provider orders is important, critical thinking requires assessing the situation and considering all relevant factors, rather than just following orders without analysis. Accepts one established way to provide care: Critical thinking involves evaluating different approaches and adapting to individual patient needs rather than rigidly adhering to a single method. Makes decisions based on intuition: While intuition can be helpful, evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning should guide decision-making, not just intuition alone.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Using the nursing process: The nursing process (assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, evaluation) is a structured approach that guides clinical decision-making and ensures patient-centered care. Relying on recall of information from past lectures and textbooks: Critical thinking involves applying knowledge, not just recalling it. Nurses must analyze patient-specific data and adapt care accordingly. Drawing on past clinical experiences to formulate standardized care plans: Past experiences can inform decision-making, but care plans must be individualized to the patient’s current condition rather than relying solely on standardization. Depending on the charge nurse to determine priorities of care: While charge nurses provide leadership, each nurse is responsible for critical thinking and independent decision-making based on their assessment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Have you had any changes in your diet?': While diet can impact skin health, this question is not the most relevant for an immediate skin assessment. More direct questions about onset, symptoms, and exacerbating factors should be prioritized. 'Does your skin condition keep you awake at night?': Pruritus (itching), pain, or discomfort from a skin condition can disrupt sleep. Asking this helps assess the impact on daily life and quality of sleep. 'How does your skin condition make you feel?': Skin conditions can affect self-esteem and mental health. This question is therapeutic and appropriate to assess emotional impact. 'How do you handle stress?': Many skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, worsen with stress. This question is relevant for identifying triggers.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Natural light: In darkly pigmented skin, color changes may not be obvious under artificial lighting. Using natural light helps the nurse detect early signs of skin breakdown. Disposable measuring tape: While measuring the wound is important, assessing the wound’s color and depth should be the first step to determine staging. Cotton-tipped applicator: A cotton-tipped applicator is useful for assessing undermining or tunneling, but it is not the first step in staging a pressure ulcer. Sterile gloves: Gloves are necessary for infection control, but they do not assist in staging the ulcer. First, assess the wound using natural light.