how should a nurse manage a patient with diarrhea

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2024

1. How should a healthcare professional manage a patient with diarrhea?

A. Provide oral fluids and monitor stool consistency
B. Administer antidiarrheal medications and monitor hydration
C. Monitor for electrolyte imbalances and provide antibiotics
D. Provide a low-fiber diet and monitor weight

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For a patient with diarrhea, the priority is to manage dehydration by providing oral fluids and monitoring stool consistency. Option B suggesting administering antidiarrheal medications is not recommended as it may prolong the infection by preventing the body from expelling the infectious agent. Option C is incorrect because antibiotics are not routinely indicated for diarrhea unless there is a specific bacterial infection. Option D is not the most appropriate initial intervention for managing diarrhea since a low-fiber diet may not provide adequate nutrition for the patient or help resolve the underlying cause of diarrhea.

2. A nurse is performing vision testing for a client following a head injury. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a problem with pupil accommodation?

A. Pupils constrict when shifting gaze from near to far
B. Pupils constrict when shifting gaze from far to near
C. Lack of change in pupil size when shifting gaze from near to far
D. Lack of change in pupil size when shifting gaze from far to near

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pupil accommodation problems are indicated by the lack of change in size when shifting gaze from far to near. The correct answer is D because in pupil accommodation, the pupils should constrict when shifting gaze from far to near in order to adjust for near vision. Choices A and B describe normal responses of pupil constriction when shifting gaze, which do not indicate a problem. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a normal response of pupil size change when shifting gaze from near to far.

3. What are the signs and symptoms of fluid overload?

A. Edema, shortness of breath, weight gain
B. High blood pressure and jugular venous distention
C. Low blood pressure and cyanosis
D. Tachycardia and dizziness

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct signs and symptoms of fluid overload include edema, shortness of breath, and weight gain. Edema is the abnormal accumulation of fluid causing swelling, shortness of breath can occur due to fluid accumulating in the lungs, and weight gain is often seen as a result of excess fluid retention. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because high blood pressure and jugular venous distention are more indicative of conditions like heart failure, while low blood pressure and cyanosis are seen in conditions like shock or poor perfusion. Tachycardia and dizziness are not typical signs of fluid overload.

4. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a client with left-leg weakness who is learning to use a cane?

A. Maintain two points of support on the floor at all times
B. Use the cane on the weak side of the body
C. Advance the cane and the strong leg simultaneously
D. Advance the cane 30 to 45 cm (12-18 in) with each step

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for a client with left-leg weakness learning to use a cane is to maintain two points of support on the floor at all times. This ensures stability and helps distribute weight evenly between the legs, reducing the risk of falls. Using the cane on the weak side of the body (Choice B) may not provide adequate support. Advancing the cane and the strong leg simultaneously (Choice C) can lead to imbalance and increases the risk of falls. Advancing the cane too far with each step (Choice D) can also compromise balance and stability.

5. How should a healthcare professional care for a patient with a central venous catheter?

A. Monitor for infection and change the dressing regularly
B. Ensure the catheter is patent and flush as needed
C. Educate the patient on self-care and proper hygiene
D. Monitor blood glucose levels and administer IV fluids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Regular monitoring for infection and dressing changes are essential aspects of caring for a patient with a central venous catheter. Infections are a significant risk with these catheters, so vigilant monitoring and timely dressing changes help prevent complications. Choice B is important too, but ensuring catheter patency and flushing are more focused on maintaining the functionality of the catheter rather than infection prevention. Choice C is also important for patient education, but the immediate concern for a healthcare professional is monitoring and preventing infections related to the catheter. Choice D is not directly related to the care of a central venous catheter.