foundation of nursing practice questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient undergoing interstitial implant for high-dose radiation (HDR) for prostate cancer will emit radiation that poses a risk to others. Limiting the time that visitors spend at the patient's bedside is essential to minimize their exposure to radiation. It is important to follow safety measures to protect both the patient and others from potential harm. Other options such as teaching the patient to perform basic care independently, assigning male nurses, or situating the patient in a shared room with other brachytherapy patients do not directly address the safety concern of radiation exposure to visitors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Mottling of the lower limbs is a common physical sign seen in patients approaching death. This occurs when there is poor circulation leading to a bluish or purplish discoloration of the skin, particularly on the extremities. The appearance of mottling indicates that the body is no longer able to maintain adequate blood flow to the extremities, signaling that the patient is in the final stages of life. It is a significant finding that strongly suggests imminent death in patients with terminal illness, such as in this case of a patient with terminal lung cancer who is unconscious.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The best time for a nurse to start discharge planning for a patient admitted with pneumonia and a congested cough is upon admission. Starting discharge planning early allows the healthcare team to identify the patient's needs, plan for the appropriate level of care, and ensure a smooth transition out of the hospital. Waiting until right before discharge or after the congestion is treated may lead to rushed or incomplete planning, potentially compromising the patient's recovery and post-discharge care. Additionally, discharge planning is not dependent on the primary care provider writing an order, as nurses can initiate teaching and planning proactively to support the patient's optimal recovery and transition. By beginning discharge planning upon admission, the healthcare team can address any potential barriers to discharge and ensure the patient's needs are met for a successful recovery process.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A person who has a history of high-risk behaviors, such as drug use, should be retested for hepatitis B during the third trimester. This is because the virus can have a long incubation period before showing up in blood tests. Retesting in the third trimester ensures that if the infection was acquired after the initial screening, it will be detected in time to provide appropriate care and interventions. Retesting is important in high-risk individuals to ensure proper management and prevention of hepatitis B transmission.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse's best response should be to provide accurate information and manage the patient's expectations realistically. Tamoxifen is known to have a slight protective effect in reducing the risk of developing breast cancer in high-risk individuals like the patient in the scenario. However, it is not a guarantee against developing breast cancer. It is essential for the nurse to convey this information to the patient to ensure that she understands the benefits and limitations of Tamoxifen therapy. Additionally, discussing potential side effects and risks associated with Tamoxifen, such as an increased risk of osteoporosis, is important for the patient to make an informed decision about her health care.