Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Bladder infections (UTIs) in older adults often present atypically, with mental status changes like confusion being a hallmark due to systemic inflammation or bacteremia. WBC count of 9,000/mm³ is normal, not clearly indicating infection unless trending up; leukocytosis (e.g., >10,000) is more specific. Temperature of 37.3°C is a low-grade fever, possible but not definitive for UTI without other signs. Diminished reflexes relate to neurologic or age-related issues, not infection. Altered mental status, however, is a red flag older adults may lack classic UTI symptoms (e.g., dysuria), and confusion signals potential sepsis or delirium, per geriatric assessment guidelines. This finding warrants urgent reporting for urinalysis and treatment, preventing progression, making it the strongest indicator of a bladder infection.

Correct Answer: A, C

Rationale: Acute compartment syndrome post-ORIF arises from pressure buildup in muscle compartments, impairing perfusion. Increased pain at the incision site severe, unrelieved by analgesics, and disproportionate to the procedure is a hallmark, reflecting nerve and tissue ischemia. Dyspnea suggests fat embolism syndrome, a separate complication from marrow release, not compartment pressure. Tingling indicates nerve compression, a later sign, but pain precedes it in the 6 Ps (pain, pallor, pulselessness, paresthesia, paralysis, poikilothermia). Swelling occurs, but pain's intensity and persistence distinguish compartment syndrome from normal postoperative edema. Early recognition of escalating pain prompts fasciotomy, preventing necrosis, making it the most consistent finding per orthopedic emergency protocols.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Assisting the client to safety is the first priority in a fire emergency per the RACE protocol (Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Chest tube systems remove pleural air or fluid, requiring functionality. Replacing the unit when full prevents backpressure or overflow, maintaining drainage and lung re-expansion, per manufacturer and infection control standards (e.g., CD
C). Monitoring 150 mL/hr is excessive sudden high output signals hemorrhage, not routine care. Clamping risks tension pneumothorax by trapping air/fluid, only done briefly for specific checks (e.g., air leak). Pinning tubing prevents dislodgement, but full chamber replacement is the proactive maintenance action. This ensures system efficacy, prevents complications like atelectasis, and aligns with respiratory care priorities, making it the nurse's key responsibility.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Replacing the unit when full maintains system function. Clamping risks tension pneumothorax, pinning can dislodge tubing, and 150 mL/hr is excessive and not a standard expectation.