Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most likely causative agent in this scenario is Plasmodium falciparum, which is the parasite that causes malaria. The symptoms of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia following a camping trip are highly suggestive of malaria, especially if the patient has thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. Plasmodium falciparum is known to cause severe malaria with complications such as thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. The other options, Trypanosoma cruzi, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leishmania donovani, do not typically present with all of the symptoms described and are not associated with the laboratory findings of thrombocytopenia and leukopenia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: An advance directive is a legal document that specifies a person's healthcare preferences and instructions for medical treatment in the event they are unable to communicate their wishes. It typically includes decisions about life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, and end-of-life care. In the scenario provided, the document provided by the patient to the nurse outlining his healthcare team's instructions postoperatively indicates that he has an advance directive in place to guide his medical care if necessary. In contrast, informed consent is a process in which a patient gives permission for medical treatment after being informed about the risks, benefits, and alternatives. Patient's Bill of Rights outlines the patient's rights within the healthcare system, and an insurance card provides information about the patient's insurance coverage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Research at work is an example of self-directed learning activity because it involves taking the initiative to seek out information, learn new skills, and solve problems independently within a workplace setting. This type of learning requires self-motivation, self-discipline, and autonomy to set goals, gather resources, and develop knowledge or expertise in a specific area. Individuals engage in research at work to enhance their professional growth, expand their skill set, or address challenges encountered in their job responsibilities. It is a proactive approach to learning where individuals take charge of their own development and continuously strive to improve their performance.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: An open chest wound, also known as a sucking chest wound, can lead to a collapsed lung and respiratory distress. Immediate management involves sealing the wound to prevent air from entering the pleural space and further compromising the patient's respiratory function. Applying a sterile dressing over the wound helps to prevent contamination and occluding the wound with an airtight covering, such as an occlusive dressing, can effectively reduce the risk of a tension pneumothorax, a serious complication that can arise from a sucking chest wound. These interventions help to stabilize the patient's condition and improve the chances of a successful recovery. Administering supplemental oxygen, though beneficial, would be secondary to the primary management of sealing the chest wound. Providing emotional support is important but addressing the physical emergency takes precedence. Elevating the patient's legs would not be appropriate in managing an open chest wound.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Beta-adrenergic agonists stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to an increase in heart rate (tachycardia). This is a common adverse effect associated with the use of beta-adrenergic agonists in the management of conditions such as asthma. Monitoring for tachycardia is important because it can potentially lead to other complications such as palpitations, arrhythmias, and exacerbation of underlying cardiovascular conditions. It is essential for the nurse to closely monitor the patient for any signs or symptoms of tachycardia and report any abnormalities to the healthcare provider promptly to ensure appropriate management and prevent further complications.