Nursing Process Practice Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct next step after identifying nursing diagnoses is planning. Planning involves setting goals and creating a plan of care to address the patient's needs based on the identified nursing diagnoses. This step helps in determining interventions and outcomes for the patient. Assessment has already been completed, and diagnosis is the step where nursing diagnoses are identified. Implementation comes after planning, where the nurse carries out the planned interventions. Therefore, the logical next step in the nursing process after identifying nursing diagnoses is planning.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Maturates T cells. The thymus gland is crucial for the maturation of T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a central role in the adaptive immune response. T cells mature in the thymus through a process of selection and education, where they learn to distinguish self from non-self antigens. This process is essential for the development of a functional immune system. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the thymus gland does not play a role in the maturation of B cells, platelets, or red blood cells, respectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Implementation. In this step of the nursing process, the nurse is carrying out the care plan based on the identified nursing diagnoses. The nurse is actively providing care and interventions to meet the patient's needs. Assessment (A) is the initial step where data is collected and analyzed. Planning (B) is where goals and interventions are determined based on assessment findings. Evaluation (D) is the final step where the nurse assesses the effectiveness of the care provided. In this scenario, the nurse has already completed the care plan and is now executing the plan by implementing the interventions, making choice C the correct answer.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Use two people to assist the patient. This is the safest option as it provides optimal support and stability for the patient during their first postoperative ambulation. Two people can help prevent falls, ensure proper body mechanics, and offer immediate assistance if needed. Using one person (choice A) may not provide enough support. Encouraging the patient to "dangle" (choice C) may increase the risk of orthostatic hypotension. Giving a narcotic before ambulation (choice D) can impair the patient's balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Urine output of 20mL/hour. This is a critical finding after kidney transplant surgery as it indicates potential kidney dysfunction or acute kidney injury. Decreased urine output can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening. Immediate physician notification is crucial for prompt intervention. Choices A, B, and C are within normal ranges and do not indicate immediate danger. Serum potassium level of 4.9mEq/L is slightly elevated but not critical. Temperature of 99.2F (37.3C) is within normal limits for postoperative care. Serum sodium level of 135mEq/L is also normal and does not warrant immediate physician notification.