Adult Health Med Surg Nursing Test Banks

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. In this scenario, when staff nurses in the Pediatric Ward are working more than they can handle, they may experience burnout. Burnout can lead to a decrease in enthusiasm for work, feelings of depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment. These consequences can ultimately impact the quality of patient care provided by the nurses. Burnout not only affects the well-being of the healthcare workers but can also result in lower patient care quality, medical errors, and decreased overall job performance. Addressing and preventing burnout is crucial in maintaining a high standard of care and ensuring the well-being of healthcare professionals.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In cases of acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), a significant factor contributing to the elevated ICP is often the mass effect caused by the hematoma within the brain. Performing an emergent craniotomy for hematoma evacuation is a critical intervention to relieve the pressure within the intracranial space, thereby mitigating the risk of herniation and further neurological damage. While other interventions such as hypertonic saline therapy, head-of-bed elevation, and sedative medications may have supporting roles in managing ICP, none address the primary cause of elevated ICP in cases of acute intracerebral hemorrhage as effectively as hematoma evacuation through craniotomy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A temperature of 39.8 degrees Celsius (103.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in a patient following abdominal surgery and ongoing blood transfusion may indicate an ongoing potential infection. During surgery, the body is exposed to various microorganisms, and the stress of surgery can weaken the immune system, making the patient more susceptible to infections. Blood transfusions also carry a risk of introducing infections if not properly screened. Therefore, in this situation, an elevated temperature may be a sign that an infection is developing, and prompt notification of the surgeon is important for further evaluation and management.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: NSAIDs are commonly known to increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects, including gastritis, ulcers, and gastrointestinal bleeding. This risk is due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which plays a protective role in the gastrointestinal mucosa. Gastrointestinal bleeding can manifest as symptoms such as black, tarry stools, vomiting blood, or abdominal pain. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to closely monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding while taking NSAIDs to prevent potentially serious complications. Hypotension, hyperkalemia, and hyperglycemia are not commonly associated with NSAIDs use, making them less likely adverse effects to monitor for in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: It is crucial for patients with COPD who are prescribed prednisone to be educated about the importance of not abruptly stopping the medication. Prednisone is a type of corticosteroid that should be tapered off gradually under the guidance of a healthcare provider to prevent potential withdrawal symptoms and adrenal insufficiency. Suddenly stopping prednisone can lead to serious adverse effects, including fatigue, weakness, joint pain, fever, dizziness, and potentially life-threatening complications. Therefore, adherence to the prescribed tapering schedule is essential to ensure the safe and effective management of COPD exacerbations with prednisone therapy.