Nursing a Concept Based Approach to Learning Test Bank

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: HELLP syndrome is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by Hemolysis (H), Elevated Liver enzymes (EL), and a Low Platelet count (LP). Therefore, the correct laboratory finding consistent with the diagnosis of HELLP syndrome is hemolysis. This can be indicated by an elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, low haptoglobin, elevated bilirubin, and the presence of schistocytes on a blood smear. The other options (A, C, and D) do not align with the classic presentation of HELLP syndrome.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should ask the patient if she completed the antibiotic prescribed for the first urinary tract infection because it is important to determine if the initial infection was fully treated. If the antibiotic course was not completed as prescribed, it could lead to a recurrence of the infection due to incomplete eradication of the bacteria. Additionally, incomplete treatment can lead to antibiotic resistance, making it harder to treat future infections. Understanding if the patient followed through with the prescribed treatment is crucial in assessing the current situation and planning appropriate interventions.

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: In older adults, particularly those over 65 years of age, atypical symptoms of a myocardial infarction may occur. Abdominal pain is considered an atypical age-related warning sign because older adults may present with subtle or nonspecific symptoms, such as discomfort or pain in the abdomen, rather than the classic chest pain associated with a heart attack. This atypical presentation can lead to delays in seeking medical attention and diagnosis, which can have serious consequences for the client. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to educate older clients about the possibility of experiencing atypical symptoms, such as abdominal pain, in the context of a myocardial infarction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The first action that the nurse should take when caring for a patient experiencing diarrhea is to ask the patient to describe the number and character of daily stools. This assessment is crucial in determining the severity and possible cause of the diarrhea. By understanding the frequency and consistency of the stools, the nurse can evaluate if the diarrhea is due to an infection, a reaction to medications, dietary factors, or other underlying health issues. Based on this assessment, appropriate interventions can then be implemented, which may include further diagnostic tests, fluid replacement therapy, dietary modifications, or medication administration. It is essential to gather this information first before considering other interventions such as abstaining from oral intake or using over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications.