Nursing Process Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A: Respiratory acidosis Rationale: 1. Respiratory acidosis is caused by inadequate ventilation leading to increased PCO? and decreased pH. 2. Low pH indicates acidosis, and high PCO? indicates respiratory component. 3. Metabolic acidosis (B) results from non-respiratory causes. 4. Respiratory alkalosis (C) is characterized by high pH and low PCO?. 5. Metabolic alkalosis (D) is caused by non-respiratory factors with high pH.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D - Shallow breathing and increasing lethargy. This could indicate a potential complication such as respiratory distress or postoperative infection. Shallow breathing may suggest respiratory compromise, while increasing lethargy could be a sign of systemic infection or inadequate oxygenation. A: Abdominal pain is common postoperatively and can be managed with pain medication. B: Serous drainage from the incision is normal and expected in the early postoperative period. C: Hypoactive bowel sounds are common after abdominal surgery due to anesthesia and manipulation of the bowel; it typically resolves as the patient recovers. In summary, the other options are common postoperative findings, while shallow breathing and increasing lethargy are concerning signs that require immediate attention.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should do a quick assessment to confirm the change in the patient's status, then notify the RN or physician. This is the best response because the nurse needs to immediately assess the patient's condition to ensure prompt intervention if needed. By confirming the change in the patient's status, the nurse can provide the necessary information to the healthcare team for appropriate evaluation and management. The other choices are incorrect because: A does not address the urgency of the situation, C involves unnecessary delay by waiting for the speech therapist, and D is not appropriate as the nurse should be the one assessing and notifying the healthcare team.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because successful treatment of diabetes insipidus aims to reduce excessive urine output and dehydration. A fluid intake of less than 2,500mL in 24 hours indicates proper control of fluid balance. Choice B is incorrect because urine output of more than 200mL/hour suggests ongoing excessive fluid loss, which is not indicative of successful treatment. Choice C is incorrect as a blood pressure of 90/50mmHg is low and may indicate hypotension, which is not a specific indicator of successful diabetes insipidus treatment. Choice D is incorrect because a pulse rate of 126 beats/min is not a direct marker of diabetes insipidus treatment success. In summary, the correct indicator of successful treatment of diabetes insipidus is a reduction in fluid intake, option A, as it signifies improved fluid balance and hydration status.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the evaluation phase of the nursing process, the nurse sets priorities for patient care to determine the effectiveness of nursing interventions. This involves comparing achieved outcomes with established goals. Choices B and D are related to evaluation as they involve determining whether outcomes or standards are met and documenting results of goal achievement, respectively. However, choice C, ambulating the patient, is an intervention that would typically occur in the implementation phase, not the evaluation phase. Therefore, the correct answer is A because setting priorities for patient care is a key component of the evaluation phase.