foundation of nursing questions and answers

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The patient is in a honeymoon period when adverse effects of levodopa-carbidopa are not yet evident. This is because the initial response to levodopa-carbidopa in Parkinson's disease can be very positive, leading to significant symptom relief. However, over time, as the disease progresses and the body adjusts to the medication, adverse effects such as dyskinesias may become more prominent. Choice B is incorrect because the benefits of levodopa-carbidopa can be seen relatively soon after initiation of treatment and do not necessarily take 6 to 9 months to peak. Choice C is incorrect as the temporary improvement is likely related to the medication, given the significant symptom relief experienced. Choice D is incorrect because while benefits may diminish over time, it is not necessarily after 1 or 2 years of treatment, and some patients may continue to benefit from the medication long-term.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Impaired verbal communication. In ALS, motor neurons deteriorate leading to muscle weakness and atrophy, including those involved in speech production. This results in impaired verbal communication. Chronic confusion (A) is not a common manifestation of ALS. Impaired urinary elimination (B) and bowel incontinence (D) are not typically associated with ALS, as it primarily affects motor neurons, not autonomic functions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pink. In a healthy ear, the tympanic membrane should appear pink due to the rich blood supply. This color indicates good vascularization and normal functioning of the ear. Yellowish-white (choice A), gray (choice C), and bluish-white (choice D) are incorrect because they do not reflect the normal color of a healthy tympanic membrane. Yellowish-white may indicate fluid behind the eardrum, gray may suggest infection or inflammation, and bluish-white could indicate poor blood flow or trauma. Therefore, the pink color of the tympanic membrane is the most appropriate and indicative of a healthy ear in this case.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Constipation. When a patient is receiving opioids, constipation is a common side effect due to decreased gut motility. It is a priority assessment because untreated constipation can lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction. Monitoring for constipation allows for early intervention with stool softeners or laxatives to prevent complications. Incorrect choices: A: Clostridium difficile - While important to consider in patients on antibiotics, it is not directly related to opioid use. C: Hemorrhoids - Although opioids can contribute to constipation which may exacerbate hemorrhoids, it is not the priority assessment. D: Diarrhea - Opioids typically cause constipation, so diarrhea is less likely to be a priority concern in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Have you ever experienced claustrophobia or feelings of anxiety while in enclosed spaces? This question is important because electronystagmography involves the patient being placed in a confined space with sensors attached to monitor eye movements. Claustrophobia or anxiety can significantly impact the patient's ability to tolerate the test, affecting its accuracy. Choice B: Do you currently take any tranquilizers or stimulants on a regular basis? While relevant in some cases, it is not as crucial as ensuring the patient can tolerate the test environment. Choice C: Do you have a history of falls or problems with loss of balance? While relevant to Mnire's disease, it is not directly related to the preparation for electronystagmography. Choice D: Do you have a history of either high or low blood pressure? While monitoring blood pressure is important for some procedures, it is not a primary concern for electronystagmography.