Nursing a Concept Based Approach to Learning Test Bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A. Take the medication as directed with clear water only: Alendronate should be taken with a full glass of plain water on an empty stomach in the morning at least 30 minutes before consuming any food, drink, or other medications. Avoid taking it with any other liquids besides plain water, as other beverages can interfere with the absorption of the drug.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), the client is experiencing joint pain due to the formation of microthrombi which can lead to ischemia and inflammation within the joints. Heat application is appropriate as it can help improve circulation, reduce pain, and promote relaxation of the joints. Heat helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can aid in reducing pain and stiffness in the joints. Additionally, heat can also help to soothe the inflamed tissues and promote comfort for the client. Splints, cool compresses, and ice are not appropriate interventions for joint pain in DIC and may not provide the same level of relief as heat therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: For a client with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) who is at risk for Impaired Skin Integrity, keeping the skin clean and dry, and moisturizing areas of dryness is crucial. Patients with PVD often have compromised circulation to the extremities, which can lead to decreased oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, increasing the risk of skin breakdown and impaired wound healing. Proper skin care helps prevent skin breakdown, decreases the risk of infection, and promotes overall skin health. Keeping the skin clean and dry helps prevent skin breakdown, while moisturizing areas of dryness helps maintain skin integrity. This intervention focuses on maintaining skin health and preventing complications associated with compromised circulation in patients with PVD.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Anticoagulant therapy, specifically heparin, is commonly used as the initial treatment for pulmonary embolism (PE) because it inhibits the formation of additional clots by altering the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Heparin works quickly and can be administered intravenously to rapidly prevent the clot from growing in size. Warfarin, another anticoagulant, is generally started after heparin therapy is initiated to provide long-term anticoagulation. Major hemorrhage is a potential side effect of anticoagulant therapy, but it is not considered common. The initiation of heparin and warfarin (Coumadin) at the same time is not standard practice due to the differing mechanisms of action and monitoring required for each medication. Anticoagulant therapy is considered first-line treatment for PE, not second-line.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: An epiphyseal fracture involves the distal or proximal epiphysis of a long bone, such as the femur, tibia, or humerus. Long bones are characterized by having a long shaft with distinct ends (epiphyses). The epiphysis is the site of bone growth and plays a crucial role in bone development. Therefore, understanding the classification of the bone as long helps the nurse in providing appropriate care for the patient with an epiphyseal fracture, such as monitoring growth plate involvement and ensuring proper immobilization for healing.