Concepts and Cases in Nursing Ethics Test Bank

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A urine output of 200 mL in 8 hours is considered low, especially for a client with cardiomyopathy who is receiving diuretic therapy. This could indicate inadequate cardiac output or worsening heart failure. It is crucial for the nurse to notify the healthcare provider promptly so that appropriate interventions can be initiated to address the underlying cause and prevent further complications. Waiting for improvement without taking action could lead to deterioration in the client's condition.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Terazosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker. By blocking alpha-1 receptors in the vascular smooth muscle, terazosin causes dilation of both arteries and veins, leading to reduced peripheral vascular resistance and decreased blood pressure. This dilation effect is achieved by preventing the binding of norepinephrine to alpha-1 receptors, thereby inhibiting vasoconstriction. Terazosin is commonly used in the treatment of hypertension to help lower blood pressure by reducing the workload on the heart and improving blood flow to organs and tissues.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The priority action for the nurse before initiating discharge teaching with a client with diabetes and a large wound is to assess the client's current knowledge regarding dressing changes. This step is crucial as it helps the nurse to understand the client's baseline understanding and skills related to wound care, which will guide the teaching process effectively. By asking the client to state what they know about the current dressing changes, the nurse can identify any knowledge gaps or misconceptions that need to be addressed. This assessment will ensure that the teaching is tailored to the client's specific needs and promotes successful wound healing and overall diabetes management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The brown pigmentation of the lower extremities in clients with venous stasis is primarily caused by the breakdown of red blood cells in the congested tissues. When there is venous stasis, the blood circulation is impaired, leading to a backup of blood in the lower extremities. This stagnant blood contains hemosiderin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. Over time, the hemosiderin deposits in the tissues, causing the characteristic brown discoloration seen in conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency. This process is known as hemosiderin deposition and is a common consequence of venous stasis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is a symptom commonly seen in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). It is characterized by sudden awakening from sleep due to difficulty breathing and feeling of suffocation. This occurs because when the patient lies down, the redistribution of fluid in the body leads to increased fluid in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. Patients with CHF often experience worsening of symptoms at night, including paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, due to the shift in fluid dynamics in a supine position. Therefore, the client in this scenario is likely experiencing paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, a classic symptom of heart failure exacerbation.