foundation of nursing practice questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During the primary infection stage of HIV, the patient is newly infected with the virus. At this stage, the patient's immune system has not yet produced HIV-specific antibodies, making it difficult to detect HIV infection using standard antibody tests. Instead, the virus can be detected by testing for the presence of HIV RNA or p24 antigen. The primary infection stage is characterized by a high level of viral replication and rapid spread of the virus throughout the body. In this early stage, the patient may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. The absence of HIV-specific antibodies means that the patient is highly infectious and can easily transmit the virus to others. As the infection progresses, the patient will eventually develop HIV-specific antibodies, which can be detected through antibody tests.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease often experience speech and communication difficulties due to the effects of the disease on the muscles involved in speech production. This can manifest as soft, slurred speech or difficulty articulating words. Therefore, promoting effective communication would be an essential goal in the plan of care for a patient with Parkinson's disease. This goal may involve strategies such as speech therapy, communication devices, or providing a conducive environment to facilitate clearer communication between the patient and healthcare providers. By focusing on promoting effective communication, the nurse can help improve the patient's quality of life and enhance their ability to express their needs and concerns.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The factor that most contributes to patients in hospice care not receiving adequate attention for their symptoms of the underlying illness is the unwillingness of patients and families to acknowledge that the patient is terminal. When patients and families are in denial or struggle to accept the terminal nature of the illness, they may avoid focusing on symptom management and comfort care that is essential in hospice care. This can prevent healthcare providers from effectively addressing and managing the patient's symptoms, leading to unnecessary suffering for the patient. Accepting the terminal nature of the illness allows for a shift in focus towards providing quality end-of-life care that prioritizes symptom management and comfort for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Food allergies are a serious health concern that can have life-threatening consequences if not managed properly. It is important for the nurse to educate the family that food allergies are typically life-long conditions and cannot be fully cured. While some children may outgrow certain food allergies over time, it is not guaranteed for all cases. Therefore, the focus should be on effectively managing the allergy through avoidance of trigger foods, carrying emergency medications like epinephrine auto-injectors, and being prepared to respond to allergic reactions. Adjusting to the necessary lifestyle changes, such as reading food labels, informing others about the child's allergies, and being vigilant about potential allergen exposure, is essential for ensuring the child's safety and well-being. Consistent monitoring and communication with healthcare providers are also crucial components of managing food allergies on a long-term basis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Mashed potatoes and gravy are not appropriate for a full liquid diet. A full liquid diet consists of foods that are liquid at room temperature or melt into liquid form at body temperature. Mashed potatoes and gravy are not in liquid form and therefore should not be consumed by a patient following a full liquid diet. The nurse should intervene and provide education about the correct food choices allowed on a full liquid diet, such as custard, frozen yogurt, and pureed vegetables.