Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The symptoms described - muscle weakness, fatigue, constipation, hyperpigmentation of the skin, low serum cortisol levels, and elevated ACTH levels - are classic findings in Addison's disease. Addison's disease is a primary adrenal insufficiency characterized by the insufficient production of cortisol and, to some extent, aldosterone. The low cortisol levels result in symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and skin hyperpigmentation due to increased levels of ACTH stimulating melanin production. In contrast, in conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and diabetes mellitus, the symptoms and laboratory findings would not fully align with those described in the patient in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Encouraging the patient to practice controlled coughing techniques would be the most appropriate intervention to address the symptoms of chronic cough and excessive sputum production in a patient with end-stage COPD receiving palliative care. Controlled coughing techniques can help the patient effectively clear respiratory secretions and improve airway clearance without the need for additional medications or interventions. This approach focuses on optimizing the patient's ability to manage their symptoms and maintain comfort, which aligns with the goals of palliative care. Administering bronchodilator medications, prescribing mucolytic medications, or referring the patient to a respiratory therapist for breathing exercises may have limited effectiveness in this advanced stage of the disease, and controlled coughing techniques would be a more practical and patient-centered approach to symptom management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When Nurse Sarah distributed a Patient satisfaction survey form to be filled by the consumer upon discharge in a hospital setting, it aligns with the quality standard of identifying Patient rights and welfare. Patient satisfaction surveys aim to gather feedback from patients about their experiences with the health care services provided. By distributing such surveys, the hospital is demonstrating its commitment to ensuring the rights and welfare of patients by seeking their feedback, understanding their concerns, and incorporating their suggestions for improvement. This initiative helps in enhancing the quality of care provided to patients and ultimately contributes to improving overall patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should prioritize screening the patient for contraindications to MRI, such as metal implants or claustrophobia, to ensure procedural safety. Metallic objects can be hazardous in an MRI environment as they can be attracted to the magnet, potentially causing harm to the patient or staff. Claustrophobia can also be a significant issue for patients undergoing an MRI scan, and identifying this beforehand allows for appropriate measures to be taken to address the patient's anxiety or discomfort. Prioritizing this screening step helps ensure the safety and well-being of the patient during the MRI procedure.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient's symptoms of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia after returning from sub-Saharan Africa are consistent with malaria. Intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites observed on blood smear examination are characteristic of Plasmodium species, particularly Plasmodium falciparum, which is the most common and deadliest species causing malaria in sub-Saharan Africa. Plasmodium falciparum can lead to severe complications, such as cerebral malaria, if not promptly treated. Trypanosoma cruzi causes Chagas disease, not malaria. Borrelia burgdorferi is responsible for Lyme disease, which typically presents with a different set of symptoms like erythema migrans rash. Leishmania donovani causes visceral leishmaniasis, not malaria.