A 62-year-old postoperative patient complains of abdominal discomfort and bloating on the second day after abdominal surgery. The nurse notes absent bowel sounds, and the patient has not passed flatus or had a bowel movement since surgery. The patient reports mild nausea but no vomiting. The healthcare provider diagnoses paralytic ileus. What is the priority nursing intervention for managing this patient?

A nurse is counseling a 45-year-old patient who recently lost their spouse to a sudden illness. During the session, the patient states, “I keep thinking this must be a mistake. I just can’t believe they’re gone.” The nurse recognizes this as part of the grieving process described by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. Which of the following correctly represents the sequence of stages in the Kübler-Ross model of grief?

A nurse is caring for a 68-year-old patient with metastatic cancer who has been experiencing severe pain and difficulty breathing. The healthcare provider discusses options for palliative care and hospice care with the patient and family. The patient asks, “How is palliative care different from hospice care?” Which response by the nurse best explains the difference?  

A nurse is assessing a 72-year-old patient with a history of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The patient reports intermittent leg pain while walking that resolves with rest, and the nurse observes delayed capillary refill and cool, pale skin on the lower extremities. Which findings and interventions are consistent with arterial insufficiency? (Select all that apply)  

A nurse is caring for a 35-year-old patient recently diagnosed with cancer. During a conversation, the patient states, “I feel like my life is over now. I don’t know how to cope with this diagnosis.” The nurse uses therapeutic communication to provide support. Which response by the nurse demonstrates therapeutic communication?

A nurse is reviewing the lab results of a 65-year-old patient admitted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and dehydration. The patient’s arterial blood gases (ABGs), complete blood count (CBC), and basic metabolic panel (BMP) show multiple abnormal values. The nurse interprets these findings to identify risks and prioritize interventions. Which of the following lab values are abnormal and require follow-up? (Select all that apply)  

A nurse is caring for a 63-year-old patient with a central venous catheter (CVC) placed for chemotherapy. During the shift, the nurse reviews the protocols for infection prevention in managing central lines. Which actions should the nurse implement to reduce the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs)? (Select all that apply)

A nurse is educating new nursing students on recognizing physical characteristics commonly associated with Down syndrome. The nurse presents a scenario of a newborn diagnosed with Down syndrome and asks the students to identify the physical features that support this diagnosis. Which physical characteristics are commonly associated with Down syndrome? (Select all that apply)  

A nurse is providing a complete bed bath for a 75-year-old patient who is immobile due to a stroke. The nurse explains the process to the patient before beginning. Which sequence of steps should the nurse follow to ensure proper hygiene and prevent infection during the bed bath?

A nurse is monitoring a 70-year-old patient on telemetry who was admitted for syncope and hypotension. The ECG reveals a third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block with a ventricular rate of 28 beats per minute. The patient is diaphoretic and reports severe dizziness. The healthcare provider is unavailable for immediate consultation. What is the most appropriate immediate action by the nurse?