Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because hyperkalemia presents with symptoms such as muscle weakness, diarrhea, and ECG changes. Muscle weakness is a common sign due to potassium's effect on neuromuscular function. Diarrhea can lead to potassium loss. ECG changes, such as peaked T waves and widened QRS complexes, indicate cardiac involvement. Assessing for these symptoms helps monitor the severity of hyperkalemia and guide treatment. Other choices are incorrect because assessing for fever and chest pain (choice A) are not specific to hyperkalemia. Encouraging fluid restriction (choice C) may not directly address hyperkalemia. Preparing for a cardiac ultrasound (choice D) is not an immediate intervention for hyperkalemia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: �I will receive parenteral vitamin B12 therapy for the rest of my life.� This statement is correct because pernicious anemia is a lifelong condition requiring ongoing vitamin B12 supplementation. Patients with pernicious anemia lack intrinsic factor, which is needed to absorb vitamin B12 from food. Therefore, they need lifelong B12 therapy to prevent complications such as anemia and neurological damage. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they suggest a limited duration of therapy. Pernicious anemia is a chronic condition that necessitates continuous treatment. Choice A implies therapy until signs and symptoms disappear, which may not address the underlying cause of the deficiency. Choice B mentions therapy until vitamin B12 levels normalize, which may not prevent recurrence. Choice C suggests monthly therapy for a fixed period, which may not be sufficient for lifelong management.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed is the correct answer because it helps to promote venous drainage, reduce cerebral edema, and decrease intracranial pressure (ICP). By positioning the patient with the head elevated, gravity assists in preventing further increases in ICP. Encouraging fluids may lead to fluid overload and exacerbate cerebral edema. Providing physical therapy and frequent repositioning may increase ICP by causing unnecessary movement and potential strain on the patient's head and neck.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because turning the patient every 2 hours helps prevent pressure ulcers caused by shearing forces. This intervention redistributes pressure, improving blood flow to the skin, thus reducing the risk of skin breakdown. Administering pain medication (A) does not directly address the skin integrity issue. Monitoring vital signs (C) is important but does not address skin integrity. Keeping bed rails up (D) may actually increase the risk of shearing forces.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ask the patient to describe the type of reaction. This is the first action the nurse should take because it is essential to assess the severity of the latex allergy to determine the appropriate precautions and interventions. By asking the patient to describe the type of reaction, the nurse can gather crucial information to ensure patient safety. Choice A is incorrect because placing the patient in isolation is not necessary for a latex allergy. Choice C is incorrect as terminating the interview prematurely is not appropriate without gathering important information about the allergy. Choice D is incorrect because documenting the allergy is important, but assessing the type of reaction should be the initial priority.