Assessment
Diagnosis
Planning
Implementation
100

A Nurse is caring for Patient John who has an admission diagnosis of ischemic stroke. The nursing assessment for a patient with ischemic stroke should include what 3 assessments:

  1. Neurological assessment:

    • Level of consciousness
    • Glasgow Coma Scale score
    • Pupil size and reactivity
    • Speech and language abilities
    • Facial symmetry
    • Motor strength and coordination
    • Sensory function
    • National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score
  2. Vital signs:

    • Blood pressure
    • Heart rate and rhythm
    • Respiratory rate and pattern
    • Temperature
    • Oxygen saturation
  3. Cardiovascular assessment:

    • Heart sounds
    • Peripheral pulses
    • Capillary refill time
  4. Respiratory assessment:

    • Breath sounds
    • Respiratory effort
    • Use of accessory muscles
  5. Swallowing ability:

    • Dysphagia screening
    • Gag reflex
  6. Pain assessment

  7. Skin assessment:

    • Color
    • Temperature
    • Integrity, especially in pressure-prone areas
  8. Mobility and balance:

    • Ability to move affected limbs
    • Risk for falls
  9. Cognitive function:

    • Orientation
    • Memory
    • Attention span
  10. Emotional status:

    • Signs of depression or anxiety
  11. History:

    • Onset and duration of symptoms
    • Risk factors
    • Current medications
    • Previous strokes or TIAs
  12. Laboratory values:

    • Complete blood count
    • Coagulation studies
    • Electrolytes
    • Blood glucose

Regular reassessments are crucial to monitor for changes in John's condition and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.


100

The Nurse is caring for Patient Betty who is admitted for chest pain. What 3 NANDA-approved nursing diagnoses may the Nurse consider to guide his care. 

  1. Acute Pain

    • Related to: myocardial ischemia
    • As evidenced by: verbal reports of chest discomfort, guarding behavior, and diaphoresis
  2. Anxiety

    • Related to: fear of myocardial infarction
    • As evidenced by: increased heart rate, restlessness, and verbalized concerns about health status
  3. Decreased Cardiac Output

    • Related to: altered myocardial contractility
    • As evidenced by: dysrhythmias, decreased peripheral pulses, and changes in blood pressure
  4. Ineffective Breathing Pattern

    • Related to: anxiety and pain
    • As evidenced by: shortness of breath, use of accessory muscles, and altered respiratory rate
  5. Activity Intolerance

    • Related to: imbalance between oxygen supply and demand
    • As evidenced by: verbal reports of fatigue, exertional dyspnea, and abnormal heart rate response to activity


100

What are 2 appropriate nursing goals for a patient with Addison Disease?

Two appropriate nursing goals for a patient with Addison Disease are:

  1. Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance

    • Monitor vital signs, especially blood pressure
    • Assess for signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
    • Maintain accurate intake and output records
    • Administer prescribed fluids and electrolytes as ordered
  2. Prevent Addisonian crisis

    • Educate patient on the importance of medication adherence
    • Teach patient to recognize signs of cortisol deficiency
    • Instruct patient on increasing corticosteroid dosage during times of stress
    • Ensure patient has an emergency kit with injectable hydrocortisone
    • Encourage patient to wear medical alert identification

These goals focus on managing the primary physiological challenges of Addison Disease and preventing life-threatening complications.

100

The Nurse sees these findings: 

  • Arterial pH: > 7.45
  • PaCO2: < 38 mm Hg
  • Bicarbonate (HCO3-)

True or False? The Nurse should assess this to indicate respiratory alkalosis. 

True. 


For respiratory alkalosis, the key lab values to look for are:

  • Arterial pH: > 7.45
  • PaCO2: < 38 mm Hg
  • Bicarbonate (HCO3-):
    • Acute: Normal (initially)
    • Chronic: Decreased (compensatory mechanism)

Additional findings:

  • Normal anion gap
  • Possible decrease in serum potassium
  • Possible decrease in ionized calcium

Remember, in chronic respiratory alkalosis, the compensatory decrease in bicarbonate brings the pH closer to normal, despite the persistently low PaCO2.

200
True or False? Nausea, vomiting, steatorrhea, and abdominal pain, often severe and radiating to the back are all signs/symptoms of pancreatitis?

True. 

The main characteristics of pancreatitis include:

  • Abdominal pain, often severe and radiating to the back
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever
  • Elevated serum amylase and lipase levels
  • Abdominal tenderness and distension
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss (in chronic cases)
  • Steatorrhea (fatty stools)
  • Risk of complications such as pseudocysts or necrosis
  • Potential for exocrine and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency

In acute cases, symptoms often develop suddenly and can be life-threatening. Chronic pancreatitis may lead to long-term digestive issues and increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Both forms can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and require careful management.


200

True or False? Two appropriate NANDA approved nursing diagnosis for atrial dysrhythmia is: activity intolerance related to reduced cardiac efficiency as evidenced by exertional dyspnea; and, increased cardiac output related to irregular heart rhythm as evidenced by ECG changes, palpitations, and fatigue.  

False. Must be decreased cardiac output. 

  1. Decreased Cardiac Output

    • Related to: irregular heart rhythm
    • As evidenced by: ECG changes, palpitations, and fatigue
  2. Activity Intolerance

    • Related to: reduced cardiac efficiency
    • As evidenced by: exertional dyspnea and abnormal heart rate response to activity
  3. Anxiety

    • Related to: perceived threat to health status
    • As evidenced by: expressed concerns and increased heart rate
  4. Risk for Impaired Gas Exchange

    • Related to: altered blood flow through the lungs
    • As evidenced by: shortness of breath and abnormal arterial blood gases
  5. Risk for Thromboembolism

    • Related to: blood stasis in atria
    • As evidenced by: presence of atrial fibrillation and potential for clot formation
  6. Ineffective Health Management

    • Related to: lack of knowledge about atrial dysrhythmia management
    • As evidenced by: verbalized confusion about treatment regimen and medication adherence


200

To address ineffective communication between the Nurse and Patient due to language differences, what are at least 5 appropriate nurse planning steps?

Appropriate nurse planning for ineffective communication due to language differences includes:

  1. Arrange for a professional medical interpreter

    • Avoid using family members or untrained staff as interpreters
  2. Use visual aids and translated written materials

    • Ensure materials are culturally appropriate and at the patient's literacy level
  3. Implement teach-back method

    • Ask patients to repeat information in their own words to confirm understanding
  4. Learn key phrases in the patient's language

    • Focus on essential medical terms and basic greetings
  5. Utilize language assistance services

    • Access telephone or video interpretation services when in-person interpreters are unavailable
  6. Employ nonverbal communication techniques

    • Use gestures, facial expressions, and demonstrative actions to convey meaning
  7. Allow extra time for appointments

    • Ensure adequate time for effective communication through an interpreter
  8. Document language preferences

    • Record the patient's preferred language in their medical record for future reference
  9. Provide culturally competent care

    • Consider cultural beliefs and practices that may impact communication and healthcare decisions
  10. Use plain language

    • Avoid medical jargon and complex terminology when communicating through an interpreter
200

5 lab values and/or diagnostic imaging for respiratory failure.

Key lab values for respiratory failure include:

  • Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs):

    • PaO2: ≤ 60 mm Hg (hypoxemic respiratory failure)
    • PaCO2: ≥ 50 mm Hg (hypercapnic respiratory failure)
    • pH: ≤ 7.25 (in hypercapnic respiratory failure)
  • Pulse oximetry:

    • SpO2 < 90%

Additional relevant lab values:

  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Serum electrolytes
  • Blood and sputum cultures (if infection is suspected)

Diagnostic imaging:

  • Chest X-ray: To identify potential causes (e.g., atelectasis, pneumonia)
  • CT scan or V/Q lung scan: If pulmonary embolus is suspected

Monitoring:

  • End-tidal CO2 (EtCO2): For patients on mechanical ventilation

These values help assess oxygenation, ventilation, and acid-base status, guiding treatment decisions in respiratory failure.

300

Patient presents with: Severe abdominal pain, particularly in the right lower quadrant, elevated white blood cell count (>10,000 cells/mm³) with increased neutrophils, and elevated C-reactive protein. Upon assessment, the nurse notices rebound tenderness. What condition should the nurse consider is happening with this patient?

Appendicitis with complications. 

The main characteristics of appendicitis with complications include:

  • Severe abdominal pain, particularly in the right lower quadrant
  • Rebound tenderness
  • Elevated white blood cell count (>10,000 cells/mm³) with increased neutrophils
  • Elevated C-reactive protein
  • Perforation of the appendix
  • Abscess formation
  • Peritonitis
  • Potential for gangrene due to thrombosis of luminal blood vessels
  • Risk of bacterial peritonitis within 6-12 hours if left untreated
  • More complex recovery process compared to simple appendicitis
  • Increased risk of colon cancer post-appendectomy in individuals aged 50-54 years

Diagnostic imaging such as abdominal ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI (especially for pregnant women and children) may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and appendectomy, with more intensive care required for complicated cases.

300

5 NANDA approved nursing diagnoses for myasthenia gravis including related to and as evidenced by parts?

  1. Impaired Physical Mobility

    • Related to: muscle weakness and fatigue
    • As evidenced by: difficulty performing activities of daily living and reduced muscle strength
  2. Ineffective Breathing Pattern

    • Related to: weakness of respiratory muscles
    • As evidenced by: shortness of breath, use of accessory muscles, and decreased vital capacity
  3. Risk for Aspiration

    • Related to: impaired swallowing due to muscle weakness
    • As evidenced by: difficulty chewing and swallowing, and weak cough reflex
  4. Impaired Verbal Communication

    • Related to: weakness of facial and laryngeal muscles
    • As evidenced by: slurred speech, hoarseness, and difficulty maintaining conversations
  5. Anxiety

    • Related to: unpredictable course of the disease and fear of myasthenic crisis
    • As evidenced by: expressed concerns about health status and potential complications
300

Name at least 2 differences between acute and chronic pancreatitis.

Acute Pancreatitis:

  1. Rapid onset of symptoms
  2. Elevated serum amylase levels, especially early in the disease process
  3. Elevated serum lipase levels, which remain high even after amylase returns to normal
  4. Increased urinary amylase levels after 48 hours
  5. Positive urinary trypsinogen-2 test

Chronic Pancreatitis:

  1. Long-term, progressive condition
  2. May show pancreatic insufficiency
  3. Increased stool fat due to decreased lipase secretion
  4. Normal biliary function
  5. May not always show elevated enzyme levels during non-acute phases

Key differences include the duration of the condition, the pattern of enzyme elevation, and the presence of long-term pancreatic insufficiency in chronic cases.

300

State 3 implementation steps for respiratory alkalosis.

Implementation for respiratory alkalosis includes:

  1. Identify and treat the underlying cause

    • Correct hypoxemia
    • Reverse hypermetabolic states
    • Manage acute pain or anxiety
  2. Assist with breathing techniques

    • Guide slow, controlled breathing
    • Use counting methods to regulate respirations
  3. Monitor arterial blood gases

    • Assess pH, PaCO2, and bicarbonate levels
  4. Provide oxygen therapy as needed

    • Ensure proper oxygenation without exacerbating hyperventilation
  5. Administer medications as prescribed

    • Treat underlying conditions (e.g., pain, anxiety)
  6. Implement relaxation techniques

    • Teach deep breathing exercises
    • Encourage mindfulness or meditation
  7. Avoid rebreathing techniques

    • Paper bag rebreathing is not recommended due to risks of hypoxemia
  8. Educate the patient

    • Explain the condition and its management
    • Teach recognition of symptoms
  9. Monitor for compensatory mechanisms

    • Assess for decreased bicarbonate levels in chronic cases
  10. Provide emotional support

    • Address any anxiety or stress contributing to hyperventilation
400

What are the uncompensated respiratory acidosis lab values and nursing interventions?

Uncompensated respiratory acidosis lab values:

  • pH < 7.35
  • PaCO2 > 45 mmHg
  • HCO3- normal (22-26 mEq/L)


What are the characteristics for uncompensated respiratory acidosis? what is the pathophysiology?



Sherpath AIanswered:

Characteristics of uncompensated respiratory acidosis:

  • pH < 7.35
  • PaCO2 > 45 mm Hg
  • Normal serum bicarbonate (HCO3-) level (22-26 mEq/L)
  • Rapid onset (acute condition)
  • Clinical signs: decreased level of consciousness, confusion, headache, dyspnea

Pathophysiology:

  1. Hypoventilation occurs, leading to CO2 retention in the blood
  2. Increased CO2 combines with water to form carbonic acid (H2CO3)
  3. Carbonic acid dissociates, releasing H+ ions and decreasing blood pH
  4. The excess H+ ions overwhelm the body's immediate buffer systems
  5. Renal compensation has not yet begun or is insufficient to correct the acidosis
  6. The respiratory center in the brainstem may become depressed, further exacerbating the condition

This acute condition results from an inability of the lungs to adequately expel CO2, causing a rapid build-up of carbonic acid in the blood and a subsequent decrease in pH. The body's compensatory mechanisms, particularly renal compensation, have not had sufficient time to correct the imbalance, leading to an uncompensated state.

Nursing interventions:

  1. Monitor respiratory status closely:

    • Assess rate, depth, and rhythm of respirations
    • Auscultate breath sounds
    • Use pulse oximetry for continuous O2 saturation monitoring
  2. Position patient to maximize ventilation (e.g., semi-Fowler's position)

  3. Administer oxygen as prescribed

  4. Assist with prescribed respiratory treatments (e.g., nebulizers, incentive spirometry)

  5. Monitor arterial blood gases (ABGs) as ordered

  6. Assess for signs of hypoxemia and hypercapnia (e.g., confusion, drowsiness, headache)

  7. Provide airway clearance techniques as needed (e.g., suctioning, chest physiotherapy)

  8. Administer medications as prescribed (e.g., bronchodilators, corticosteroids)

  9. Prepare for possible mechanical ventilation if condition worsens

  10. Educate patient on deep breathing and coughing exercises

  11. Address underlying cause (e.g., COPD management, treating pneumonia)

  12. Monitor for signs of compensation or improvement in acid-base balance

  13. Provide emotional support and education to patient and family

400

Nurse Samantha was told her patient is now diagnosed with Cushing Syndrome. The diagnoses should not include any of these problems as a part of the nursing diagnoses for her care plan: Imbalanced Nutrition: More than Body Requirements; Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity, and Fatigue. 

False. 

The pathophysiology of Cushing syndrome centers on chronic exposure to excess cortisol:


Causes:


ACTH-dependent (80% of cases):

Pituitary corticotroph adenoma (Cushing disease)

Ectopic ACTH-secreting tumors (e.g., small cell lung carcinoma)

ACTH-independent:

Adrenal tumors (benign or malignant)

Iatrogenic: Long-term glucocorticoid administration

Effects of hypercortisolism:


Metabolic:

Increased gluconeogenesis leading to hyperglycemia

Insulin resistance

Protein catabolism causing muscle wasting

Cardiovascular:

Hypertension due to increased vascular sensitivity

Skeletal:

Osteoporosis from loss of bone protein matrix

Integumentary:

Thinning of skin and loss of collagen

Easy bruising and poor wound healing

Endocrine:

Suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis

Menstrual irregularities and reduced fertility

Clinical manifestations:


Redistribution of body fat (central obesity, "moon face", "buffalo hump")

Muscle weakness

Thin, fragile skin with purplish striae

Hirsutism and acne (due to androgen excess)

Mood changes and cognitive impairment

Complications:


Diabetes mellitus

Increased susceptibility to infections

Pathologic fractures

Cardiovascular disease

The excess cortisol affects multiple body systems, leading to the diverse and complex clinical presentation of Cushing syndrome.

NANDA approved nursing diagnoses for Cushing syndrome:

  1. Imbalanced Nutrition: More Than Body Requirements

    • Related to: altered metabolism and increased appetite
    • As evidenced by: weight gain, central obesity, and "moon face"
  2. Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity

    • Related to: thinning of skin and decreased collagen synthesis
    • As evidenced by: easy bruising, purplish striae, and delayed wound healing
  3. Disturbed Body Image

    • Related to: changes in physical appearance
    • As evidenced by: verbalized dissatisfaction with body changes and social withdrawal
  4. Risk for Infection

    • Related to: immunosuppression from excess cortisol
    • As evidenced by: increased susceptibility to infections and delayed wound healing
  5. Ineffective Health Management

    • Related to: complexity of treatment regimen and metabolic changes
    • As evidenced by: difficulty managing symptoms and adhering to medication schedule
  6. Fatigue

    • Related to: muscle wasting and metabolic imbalances
    • As evidenced by: reported weakness, especially in extremities, and decreased energy levels
  7. Anxiety

    • Related to: changes in appearance and health status
    • As evidenced by: expressed concerns about prognosis and treatment outcomes
400

For a patient with ventricular fibrillation, the nurse should plan to do all of the following except:

  1. Initiate immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  2. Prepare for defibrillation using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or manual defibrillator
  3. Ensure IV access is established for medication administration
  4. Administer oxygen and assist with airway management
  5. Not prepare for the administration of antiarrhythmic drugs as ordered (e.g., amiodarone)
  6. Monitor vital signs and ECG continuously
  7. Document all interventions and patient responses
  8. Prepare for potential post-resuscitation care, including targeted temperature management


5. The nurse should prepare for the administration of antiarrhythmic drugs as ordered (e.g., amiodarone) 

The nurse should plan to:

  1. Initiate immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  2. Prepare for defibrillation using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or manual defibrillator
  3. Ensure IV access is established for medication administration
  4. Administer oxygen and assist with airway management
  5. Prepare for the administration of antiarrhythmic drugs as ordered (e.g., amiodarone)
  6. Monitor vital signs and ECG continuously
  7. Document all interventions and patient responses
  8. Prepare for potential post-resuscitation care, including targeted temperature management

The primary goal is to restore a normal heart rhythm as quickly as possible to prevent sudden cardiac death.

400

What is the highest and lowest priority nursing intervention for fracture?

Highest priority nursing interventions for fracture:

  1. Neurovascular assessment of the affected extremity

    • Monitor circulation, sensation, and movement
    • Detect early signs of compartment syndrome or vascular compromise
  2. Pain management

    • Administer prescribed pain medications
    • Position for comfort and immobilize the affected area
  3. Monitor vital signs

    • Assess for signs of shock or complications

Lowest priority nursing interventions for fracture:

  1. Long-term patient education

    • Discuss bone health and future fracture prevention
  2. Discharge planning

    • Arrange for follow-up appointments and home care needs
  3. Psychosocial support

    • Address concerns about lifestyle changes or long-term impact

Remember, priorities may shift based on the patient's condition and any acute changes in their status. Ongoing assessment is crucial to ensure appropriate care.

 

500

What are the key differences in nursing interventions between respiratory acidosis and metabolic acidosis and what are their lab values?

Key differences in nursing interventions for respiratory acidosis and metabolic acidosis:

Respiratory Acidosis:

  1. Airway management:

    • Maintain patent airway
    • Assist with positioning to optimize breathing (e.g., semi-Fowler's)
    • Suction secretions as needed
  2. Ventilation support:

    • Administer oxygen therapy as prescribed
    • Assist with or initiate mechanical ventilation if needed
    • Monitor oxygen saturation and end-tidal CO2
  3. Medication management:

    • Administer bronchodilators for underlying respiratory conditions
    • Use sedatives cautiously as they may further depress respiration
  4. Underlying cause treatment:

    • Address specific causes (e.g., COPD exacerbation, neuromuscular disorders)
  5. Monitoring:

    • Assess respiratory rate, depth, and pattern frequently
    • Monitor for signs of increasing CO2 retention (e.g., drowsiness, confusion)

Metabolic Acidosis:

  1. Fluid and electrolyte management:

    • Administer IV fluids to correct dehydration
    • Replace electrolytes as needed (e.g., potassium, sodium)
  2. Medication administration:

    • Administer bicarbonate therapy if severely acidotic and as prescribed
    • Provide insulin in cases of diabetic ketoacidosis
  3. Underlying cause treatment:

    • Manage diabetes, kidney disease, or other primary conditions
  4. Nutrition support:

    • Encourage oral intake if appropriate
    • Implement parenteral nutrition if necessary
  5. Monitoring:

    • Assess for signs of compensation (e.g., rapid, deep breathing)
    • Monitor urine output and serum electrolytes

Both conditions require:

  • Frequent vital sign monitoring
  • Serial arterial blood gas analysis
  • Assessment of neurological status
  • Patient education on prevention and management

The primary focus in respiratory acidosis is on improving ventilation and oxygenation, while in metabolic acidosis, it's on addressing the underlying metabolic disturbance and supporting the body's compensatory mechanisms.

To confirm respiratory or metabolic acidosis in a clinical setting, the following diagnostic tests should be prioritized:

  1. Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) analysis

    • Primary test for acid-base disorders
    • Measures pH, PaCO2, PaO2, and HCO3-
    • Helps differentiate between respiratory and metabolic acidosis
  2. Serum electrolytes

    • Particularly sodium, potassium, and chloride
    • Helps identify electrolyte imbalances associated with acidosis
  3. Serum bicarbonate (HCO3-) level

    • Part of a basic metabolic panel
    • Low levels indicate metabolic acidosis
  4. Anion gap calculation

    • Helps differentiate between various causes of metabolic acidosis
  5. Lactate levels

    • Elevated in lactic acidosis, a common form of metabolic acidosis
  6. Blood glucose

    • To rule out diabetic ketoacidosis
  7. Kidney function tests

    • BUN and creatinine to assess renal contribution to acidosis
  8. Urinalysis

    • To check for ketones in cases of suspected ketoacidosis
  9. Chest X-ray

    • To identify potential causes of respiratory acidosis (e.g., COPD exacerbation)
  10. Pulse oximetry

    • To assess oxygenation status

These tests, particularly ABG analysis, provide crucial information for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of acid-base disorders.

500

What are the definition, causes, and signs and symptoms of respiratory acidosis and metabolic acidosis?

Respiratory acidosis and metabolic acidosis are two distinct acid-base imbalances:

Respiratory Acidosis

  • Definition: Occurs when alveolar hypoventilation leads to CO2 buildup, resulting in increased carbonic acid in the blood
  • Causes: Depression of respiratory center, respiratory muscle paralysis, chest wall disorders, lung parenchyma disorders

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Headache, restlessness, blurred vision, apprehension
  • Lethargy, muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, coma (in severe cases)
  • Myocardial depression, dysrhythmias, hypotension (in chronic cases)
  • Rapid respiratory rate initially, gradually becoming depressed
  • Pink skin due to vasodilation (unless hypoxemia is present)

Metabolic Acidosis

  • Definition: Increased concentration of nonvolatile acids or loss of bicarbonate from extracellular fluid
  • Causes: Poor perfusion, hypoxemia, renal disease, ingestion of acid precursors, starvation, diabetic ketoacidosis

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Neurologic: Headache, lethargy, confusion, coma (in severe cases)
  • Respiratory: Kussmaul respirations (deep, rapid breathing)
  • Gastrointestinal: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort
  • Cardiovascular: Dysrhythmias, hypotension (in severe cases)

Both conditions can lead to serious complications if left untreated, including organ dysfunction and death in extreme cases.

500

What is the pathophysiology and highest priority nursing interventions versus lowest priority nursing interventions for myasthenia gravis? State two of each.

Pathophysiology of Myasthenia Gravis:

  • Autoantibodies attack acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction
  • Results in impaired neuromuscular transmission and fluctuating muscle weakness

Highest Priority Nursing Interventions:

  1. Maintaining adequate ventilation and monitoring respiratory status
  2. Administering prescribed medications (e.g., anticholinesterase agents) and monitoring for side effects

Lowest Priority Nursing Interventions:

  1. Arranging diversional activities that require little physical effort
  2. Exploring community resources, such as the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America


Acetylcholine receptors are specialized proteins located on the surface of certain cells that bind to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. There are two main types:

  1. Nicotinic receptors:

    • Found in the ganglia of both parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems
    • Also stimulated by nicotine
    • Located at neuromuscular junctions
  2. Muscarinic receptors:

    • Found postsynaptically in effector organs (smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands) supplied by parasympathetic fibers
    • Also stimulated by the alkaloid muscarine from mushrooms

These receptors play crucial roles in the parasympathetic nervous system, mediating various physiological responses when activated by acetylcholine. Their stimulation can affect heart rate, smooth muscle contraction, glandular secretions, and other autonomic functions.

500

What is the pathophysiology and highest priority nursing interventions versus lowest priority nursing interventions for acute and chronic renal failure? State two of each

Acute Renal Failure (AKI):

  • Sudden decline in kidney function due to injury or illness
  • Rapid accumulation of waste products, fluid, and electrolytes

Chronic Renal Failure (CKD):

  • Progressive, irreversible loss of kidney function over months or years
  • Gradual buildup of waste products and fluid in the body

Highest Priority Nursing Interventions:

Acute Renal Failure:

  1. Monitor fluid balance through strict intake and output, daily weights
  2. Assess for signs of infection and implement meticulous aseptic technique

Chronic Renal Failure:

  1. Manage fluid and electrolyte balance
  2. Administer medications as prescribed and monitor for side effects

Lowest Priority Nursing Interventions:

Acute Renal Failure:

  1. Arrange diversional activities
  2. Provide long-term career guidance

Chronic Renal Failure:

  1. Discuss long-term financial planning
  2. Explore recreational activities suitable for patients with CKD