Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Endocrine changes in a bulimic patient, such as Sherry, can lead to disruptions in the pituitary gland's function. Hypopituitarism refers to a disorder in which the pituitary gland does not produce one or more of its hormones adequately. This can result in hormonal imbalances and have various effects on the body's functions. In Sherry's case, developing hypopituitarism would be an expected change due to the endocrine disruptions associated with bulimia. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor and address these endocrine changes in bulimic patients to prevent further complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate action in this situation is to perform abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver. This technique is used to clear a blocked airway caused by a choking obstruction. Encouraging continued coughing may not be effective if the person is unable to dislodge the obstruction on their own. Delivering back blows can sometimes be effective, but abdominal thrusts are more commonly recommended in cases of choking in adults. Administering rescue breaths is not recommended if the person is conscious and able to cough, as it may worsen the situation by pushing the obstruction further down. By quickly performing abdominal thrusts, you can help dislodge the obstruction and potentially save the person's life.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When a patient is crying and continuously pulling at a specific body part, such as Catherine pulling her right ear, it indicates discomfort or pain in that area. Nurse Selma's most appropriate action would be to further assess the description and frequency of the pain. This will help her identify the possible cause of the pain, whether it is due to an ear infection, injury, or any other underlying issue. Understanding the nature and intensity of the pain will guide Nurse Selma in providing appropriate care and intervention for Catherine. It is crucial to address the patient's pain promptly to ensure their comfort and well-being. Referring to the attending physician may be necessary after this initial assessment but assessing the pain should be the immediate priority.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Beta-adrenergic agonists stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to an increase in heart rate (tachycardia). This is a common adverse effect associated with the use of beta-adrenergic agonists in the management of conditions such as asthma. Monitoring for tachycardia is important because it can potentially lead to other complications such as palpitations, arrhythmias, and exacerbation of underlying cardiovascular conditions. It is essential for the nurse to closely monitor the patient for any signs or symptoms of tachycardia and report any abnormalities to the healthcare provider promptly to ensure appropriate management and prevent further complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Patients with COPD are at increased risk for developing ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) due to their underlying lung pathology. Using a low tidal volume strategy (6-8 ml/kg predicted body weight) has been shown to reduce the risk of VILI in these patients. Additionally, applying high positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) helps to recruit collapsed alveoli, improve oxygenation, and decrease the risk of barotrauma by keeping the alveoli open throughout the respiratory cycle. Therefore, the most appropriate ventilator settings to minimize the risk of VILI in a COPD patient with acute exacerbation and respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation would be low tidal volume and high PEEP.