Nursing Process Exam Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hypomagnesemia. Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, and hypomagnesemia can cause confusion in elderly patients. Magnesium plays a crucial role in brain function and its deficiency can result in cognitive impairment. Hyponatremia (A) typically presents with symptoms like weakness and confusion but not necessarily dehydration. Hypercalcemia (B) and hyperkalemia (C) are less likely to cause confusion in this scenario. Therefore, hypomagnesemia is the most likely electrolyte imbalance involved in the elderly nursing home resident's confusion.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct response is C: Confronting the denial. Denial is a defense mechanism that can hinder the client's acceptance and coping with the situation. By confronting the denial in a supportive and empathetic manner, the nurse can help the client acknowledge and process their feelings. Accepting (A) or supporting (B) the denial would enable the client to avoid facing reality. Interpreting (D) the denial may lead to miscommunication or misunderstanding. Confronting the denial encourages the client to address their emotions and move towards acceptance and healing.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Encourage ambulation and liberal fluid. Encouraging ambulation can help in the movement of kidney stones and alleviate pain. Liberal fluid intake helps in flushing out kidney stones and preventing further stone formation. Incorrect options: A: Administering prescribed nephrotoxic drugs can worsen kidney function and exacerbate the pain. C: Observing aseptic principles when changing intake is important for infection prevention but not directly related to pain management for renal calculi. D: Providing a comfortable position can offer temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause of kidney stone pain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Applying the liquid test antigen. During a scratch test to detect allergies, the nurse's role is to apply the liquid test antigen onto the skin to observe the body's reaction. This antigen contains potential allergens that may trigger a response in allergic individuals. By applying this antigen, the nurse can assess if the patient develops a raised wheal or redness at the site, indicating an allergic reaction. This step is crucial in identifying specific allergens causing the patient's symptoms. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as determining the type of allergy, measuring the length and width of the reaction, and documenting the findings are all important steps but do not directly relate to the initial action of applying the test antigen during a scratch test.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Fluid and electrolyte monitoring. In total parenteral nutrition (TPN), monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance is crucial to prevent complications like dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and overload. Regular assessment ensures the patient's stability and prevents potential adverse effects. Option A (Evaluation of the peripheral venous site) is important but not essential compared to maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. Option B (Confirmation that the tube is in the stomach) is irrelevant for a patient receiving TPN as it bypasses the GI tract. Option C (Assessment of the GI tract, including bowel sounds) is not necessary as TPN is given intravenously, bypassing the GI tract altogether.