foundation of nursing practice questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease often experience speech and communication difficulties due to the effects of the disease on the muscles involved in speech production. This can manifest as soft, slurred speech or difficulty articulating words. Therefore, promoting effective communication would be an essential goal in the plan of care for a patient with Parkinson's disease. This goal may involve strategies such as speech therapy, communication devices, or providing a conducive environment to facilitate clearer communication between the patient and healthcare providers. By focusing on promoting effective communication, the nurse can help improve the patient's quality of life and enhance their ability to express their needs and concerns.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin of the penis is tight and cannot be retracted over the glans. It can occur in uncircumcised males, like the 78-year-old male in this scenario. Phimosis may lead to difficulty with hygiene, pain during sexual activity, and an increased risk of infections. Treatment may involve conservative measures such as topical corticosteroids or, in severe cases, surgical intervention like circumcision to alleviate the tightness of the foreskin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The best time for a nurse to start discharge planning for a patient admitted with pneumonia and a congested cough is upon admission. Starting discharge planning early allows the healthcare team to identify the patient's needs, plan for the appropriate level of care, and ensure a smooth transition out of the hospital. Waiting until right before discharge or after the congestion is treated may lead to rushed or incomplete planning, potentially compromising the patient's recovery and post-discharge care. Additionally, discharge planning is not dependent on the primary care provider writing an order, as nurses can initiate teaching and planning proactively to support the patient's optimal recovery and transition. By beginning discharge planning upon admission, the healthcare team can address any potential barriers to discharge and ensure the patient's needs are met for a successful recovery process.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Chronic urinary retention can lead to an elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level due to impaired kidney function. When urine is not effectively eliminated from the body, waste products, including urea, accumulate in the bloodstream. This can result in an increase in BUN levels, indicating potential kidney dysfunction in the setting of chronic urinary retention. Hypertension (Choice A), peripheral edema (Choice B), and tachycardia and other dysrhythmias (Choice C) are not specifically associated with chronic urinary retention but may be related to other conditions or comorbidities.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Megestrol is a synthetic progestational agent that has been found to promote significant weight gain in AIDS patients with wasting syndrome by increasing body fat stores. It is commonly used to stimulate appetite and increase caloric intake in patients experiencing anorexia and weight loss due to various medical conditions, including AIDS-related wasting. Megestrol works by increasing appetite and improving food intake, leading to weight gain and improved nutritional status in patients with HIV/AIDS. It has been shown to be effective in reversing weight loss and improving quality of life in these patients. Therefore, the drug megestrol is the most appropriate choice for promoting weight gain in AIDS patients with wasting syndrome and anorexia.