Fundamental Concepts and Skills for Nursing Test Bank

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a medication commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels. One of the serious side effects associated with atorvastatin use is muscle pain and weakness. This could be a sign of a rare but serious condition known as rhabdomyolysis, which is the breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney damage. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to report any muscle pain or weakness promptly to their healthcare provider to prevent any serious complications. Headaches and nausea are common side effects that may not require urgent attention. Bruising and excessive bleeding usually indicate a different issue, such as a bleeding disorder or anticoagulant medication effect. Shortness of breath and coughing are not typically associated with atorvastatin use and may suggest other health problems that require evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Wheezing breath sounds in all lobes indicate airway obstruction or narrowing, which may be a sign of worsening heart failure leading to pulmonary congestion. Wheezing can be a result of fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema) due to inadequate pumping of the heart in CHF. Monitoring for respiratory symptoms such as wheezing is crucial in assessing the effectiveness of treatment for congestive heart failure. In this case, the presence of wheezing suggests that the client's condition is not improving and requires further evaluation and intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow, which can be life-threatening. Common clinical manifestations of PE include sudden onset of dyspnea (difficulty breathing), chest pain (sharp, stabbing pain that may worsen with deep breaths), tachypnea (rapid breathing), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and possibly cough or hemoptysis (coughing up blood). In the context of a client recovering from a hysterectomy, it is crucial to recognize the signs of PE as early intervention is essential to prevent serious complications. Nausea, decreased urine output, and activity intolerance are not typical clinical manifestations of a pulmonary embolism and should not be the primary focus when suspecting a PE in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A. Dementia causes impaired short- and long-term memory: Impaired memory is a common symptom of dementia, affecting both short-term and long-term memory. Patients may struggle to remember recent events or past memories, which can significantly impact their daily functioning.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Low blood flow in veins increases the risk for the development of a thrombus. When blood flow is slow or stagnant in veins, it can lead to the formation of blood clots or thrombi. This risk is further heightened in individuals who have conditions that affect blood flow, such as being sedentary or having a condition that impairs circulation. Thrombi can pose serious health risks if they break off and travel to other parts of the body, potentially causing blockages or even life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism. Thus, low blood flow in veins is a key characteristic that increases the risk for thrombus formation.