Nursing Process Test Bank

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Good oral hygiene is needed, including brushing and flossing." This is because phenytoin (Dilantin) can cause gingival hyperplasia, a side effect that leads to overgrowth of gum tissue. Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help prevent or minimize this side effect. Choice A is incorrect because alcohol is contraindicated while taking phenytoin as it can increase the risk of side effects and decrease the effectiveness of the medication. Choice C is incorrect because medication doses should never be self-adjusted without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can lead to ineffective treatment or potential harm. Choice D is incorrect because the timing of the morning dose in relation to drawing a serum drug level is not relevant to the client's understanding of medication instructions and does not address the specific side effect of gingival hyperplasia associated with phenytoin.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dyspnea on exertion. In older clients, dyspnea on exertion is often the earliest symptom of heart failure due to decreased cardiac reserve. This occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's demands during physical activity. Increased urine output (A) is not typically an early symptom of heart failure. Swollen joints (C) are more indicative of arthritis or inflammation, not necessarily heart failure. Nausea and vomiting (D) are not typical early symptoms of heart failure and are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal issues.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it directly reflects the client's progress in physical activity, a key indicator of recovery post-myocardial infarction. Walking 500 meters without chest pain shows improved cardiovascular function and exercise tolerance. Vital signs and lab results from admission (A) are important for initial assessment but not for ongoing evaluation. Physician notes (C) may provide insights but do not directly measure the client's progress. Medications prescribed (D) are important but do not reflect the client's specific improvement in physical activity.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a regular diet with extra fruits and green vegetables can provide essential nutrients for overall health, potassium-sparing diuretics can help manage potassium levels in the body, and discontinuing oral magnesium salts can prevent further complications in the patient. Option A focuses on promoting a healthy diet, B addresses specific medication for potassium management, and C avoids potential interactions with magnesium salts. Therefore, all of the measures (A, B, and C) are necessary for comprehensive management of the patient's condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 45-year old woman who has never been pregnant. The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age and nulliparity (never having been pregnant) is a significant risk factor. The older a woman gets without having been pregnant, the higher her risk of developing ovarian cancer. The other choices do not have as high of a risk factor for ovarian cancer. Choice A, a 30-year old woman taking contraceptives, actually reduces the risk of ovarian cancer. Choice C, a 40-year old woman with three children, and choice D, a 36-year old woman who had her first child at age 22, both have lower risk factors compared to choice B.