Adult Health Nursing Answer Key

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The recommended position for a conscious patient experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation is the High-Fowler's position. This position involves the patient sitting upright or almost upright at about a 90-degree angle. The High-Fowler's position helps improve ventilation by expanding the lungs and maximizing airflow in and out of the airways. It also reduces the work of breathing in patients with asthma by allowing gravity to assist in moving air in and out of the lungs more easily. Additionally, this position can help alleviate shortness of breath and improve oxygenation in patients experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's priority action after applying the surgical dressing is to assess the surgical incision for signs of complications. This includes checking for any signs of infection, excessive bleeding, or other complications related to the surgical site. Early detection of such complications is crucial for ensuring proper healing and preventing serious complications. Once the assessment is done and any issues are addressed, the nurse can proceed with documenting the dressing change, providing instructions to the patient about wound care, and ensuring that the dressing is securely and correctly applied.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pain is best described as a subjective unpleasant experience because it is unique to each individual and is influenced by a variety of factors including emotional, psychological, and cultural elements. Pain cannot be objectively measured or quantified, and therefore it is considered a subjective experience that is reported by the person experiencing it. This is why pain is often assessed using self-report scales and tools to capture the individual's perception of their pain intensity and quality.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs are essential for the professional growth and development of nurses. CPD programs provide opportunities for nurses to enhance their knowledge, skills, and competencies, keeping them up-to-date with the latest advancements in healthcare. These programs may include workshops, conferences, seminars, online courses, and certifications that contribute to a nurse's professional development. By engaging in CPD programs, nurses can improve their clinical practice, critical thinking skills, and patient care, ultimately benefiting both the nurse and the patients they serve.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The physician is ultimately responsible for prescribing the correct dosage of medication to the patient. However, the nurse also plays a critical role in ensuring patient safety by questioning any orders that appear to be unusual or incorrect. In this scenario, the nurse had doubts about the unusually large dosage but was reassured by the senior nurse that the order was correct. Both the physician and the nurse failed in their responsibilities, leading to the patient's unfortunate death. The senior nurse also shares liability as they provided incorrect guidance to the nurse administering the medication. Ultimately, the situation was a result of a breakdown in communication and adherence to proper procedures by both the physician and the nurse.