Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Antiphospholipid syndrome is characterized by abnormal antiphospholipid antibodies, which can lead to an increased risk of blood clots such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). The two most common antiphospholipid antibodies are anticardiolipin and lupus anticoagulant. Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome can present with recurrent thrombotic events, such as DVT and PE, due to the pro-thrombotic effects of these antibodies. Protein C deficiency, Protein S deficiency, and Antithrombin III deficiency are other causes of hypercoagulability but would not typically present with elevated antiphospholipid antibodies.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The sensation of feeling "heavy" in the perineal area postpartum is a common concern due to the stretching and potential trauma to the perineal muscles during childbirth. Kegel exercises are specifically designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can help alleviate this sensation of heaviness. By encouraging the client to perform Kegel exercises regularly, the nurse is promoting the restoration and strengthening of the perineal muscles, ultimately helping the client feel more comfortable and supported in that area. This education empowers the client to take an active role in their own recovery and promotes optimal healing postpartum.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Uterine rupture is a severe obstetric complication that requires prompt and decisive management to prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby. In cases of uterine rupture leading to fetal distress and maternal hemorrhage, performing an emergency cesarean section is crucial. This intervention allows for rapid delivery of the baby, relieving the distress on the fetus and enabling immediate access to manage the maternal hemorrhage. By performing a timely cesarean section, healthcare providers can expedite the delivery process and effectively address both the fetal and maternal complications associated with uterine rupture. This intervention is essential in saving lives and reducing the risk of further complications in such a critical obstetric emergency.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The healthcare team should prioritize administering lactulose or other ammonia-lowering agents to manage hepatic encephalopathy in a patient with acute liver failure. Hepatic encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric syndrome that occurs in patients with liver dysfunction, leading to the accumulation of ammonia and other neurotoxic metabolites in the bloodstream. Lactulose works by acidifying the colon, which promotes the conversion of ammonia to ammonium, a less toxic form that can be excreted in the stool. By reducing the levels of ammonia, lactulose helps improve the neurological symptoms associated with hepatic encephalopathy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nurses play a crucial role as collaborators in the diagnostic process of psychiatric patients. While nurses themselves do not diagnose psychiatric conditions, they work closely with other healthcare providers such as psychiatrists and psychologists in assessing and monitoring patients' mental health status. Nurses gather valuable information, observe patients' behaviors, and communicate effectively with the healthcare team to contribute to the overall diagnostic process. By actively participating in assessments and evaluations, nurses help ensure accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans for psychiatric patients.