Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Records are IMPORTANT in health care as they serve as evidence of the health care services that have been provided to a patient. These records contain vital information such as the patient's medical history, diagnoses, treatments, medications, and test results. Keeping accurate and detailed records is crucial for monitoring a patient's progress, ensuring appropriate care is being provided, and serving as a reference point for healthcare providers involved in the patient's treatment. Additionally, health care records are essential for legal and insurance purposes, quality assessment, research, and continuity of care.

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A living will is a legal document that allows an individual to express their wishes regarding medical treatment in the event they become unable to make decisions. It specifically outlines the medical treatments a person chooses to refuse or accept under certain circumstances. It is important to differentiate a living will from a durable power of attorney, which designates someone to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the individual when they are unable to do so, and advance directives, which encompass both a living will and a durable power of attorney for healthcare. The living will serves as a guide for healthcare professionals and family members to honor the individual's preferences for medical care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: If the nurse observes an unusual odor emanating from the surgical site during surgery, it is important to inform the surgeon immediately and assess for signs of infection. Changes in odor can sometimes be an early sign of infection, which requires prompt attention and intervention. By communicating with the surgeon and conducting a thorough assessment, the nurse can help ensure the timely detection and management of any potential complications, such as infection, that may be affecting the patient's surgical outcome. Prompt action in response to unusual observations is crucial to maintaining patient safety and well-being during surgical procedures.