Adult Health Nursing Test Banks

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Assessing the mental status of the patient is the PRIORITY nursing action to determine the patient's ability to concentrate and focus. This assessment includes evaluating the patient's level of alertness, orientation, memory, thought processes, and mood. By observing the patient's mental status, the nurse can gain valuable information about the patient's cognitive function, attention span, and ability to concentrate. This assessment will help guide further interventions and care planning for the patient. Asking for academic performance or conducting paper and pencil tests may be useful tools to assess concentration and focus, but they should come after a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's mental status. Referring the patient to a psychiatrist may be necessary based on the assessment findings, but it should not be the first step in determining the patient's ability to concentrate and focus.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The purpose of a tracheostomy is to establish an artificial airway in the trachea through a surgical procedure. This is done to bypass obstructions in the upper airway, assist with breathing, or facilitate the removal of secretions from the lungs. A tracheostomy helps in maintaining a clear and secure airway for patients who have difficulty breathing or require long-term mechanical ventilation support.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation of sudden-onset, painless vision loss in the right eye with a cherry-red spot at the macula and attenuated retinal vessels is classic for central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). In this condition, the blockage of the central retinal artery results in severe ischemia of the retina, leading to rapid and profound vision loss. The cherry-red spot at the macula is a result of preserved choroidal circulation contrasting with the pale, ischemic retina. Attenuated retinal vessels are also commonly observed due to decreased blood flow. Prompt evaluation and management are critical in CRAO to potentially restore some vision and prevent further ischemic damage to the retina.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most commonly associated adverse effect with ACE inhibitors is a dry cough. This cough is non-productive and can be quite bothersome for patients, often leading to non-compliance with the medication. The cough is thought to be due to the accumulation of bradykinin and substance P, which are vasodilatory and bronchoconstrictive peptides that are normally degraded by ACE. When ACE is inhibited, these peptides accumulate and can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract, resulting in the dry cough. It's important for healthcare providers to be aware of this common side effect and consider alternative medications if the cough becomes problematic for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nurse Nilda immediately responds to any cry from her pediatric patients to attend to her patients who cannot communicate verbally. Crying is one of the few ways infants and young children communicate their needs and discomforts. By responding promptly to their cries, Nurse Nilda can assess and address potential issues such as hunger, pain, discomfort, or other needs that the child may have. This enhances the quality of care provided and helps in comforting and soothing the child, ultimately promoting their well-being and building trust between the nurse and the patient.