A patient newly diagnosed as HIV-positive seeks the nurse's advice on how to reduce the risk of infections. The patient says, "I used to go to church and I was in my best health then. Maybe I should start going to church again."
Which response will the nurse offer?
a. "Religion does not usually affect health, but you were younger and stronger then."
b. "Contact with supportive people at church might help, but religion itself is not especially helpful."
c. "Studies show that spiritual practices can enhance immune system function and coping abilities."
d. "Going to church would expose you to many potential infections. Let's think about some other options."
ANS: C
Studies have shown a positive correlation between spiritual practices and enhanced immune system function and sense of well-being. The other options wrongly suggest that spiritual practices have little effect on the immune system or reject the patient's preferences regarding health management.
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A father asks when his baby's heart will start beating. The nurse should tell the father the primitive heart begins to beat at which of these times after conception?
a. 21 days c. week 12 b. week 8 d. week 16
Under which circumstance would the nurse expect a combination of antibiotics to be used?
a. For a patient with tuberculosis b. When a single organism has been identified c. For a patient with allergies to one of the drugs used d. When there is a concern about enhancing resistance
A 58-year-old woman tells the nurse, "I understand that I have stage II breast cancer and I need to decide on a surgery, but I feel overwhelmed. What do you think I should do?" Which response by the nurse is best?
a. "I would have a lumpectomy, but you need to decide what is best for you." b. "Tell me what you understand about the surgical options that are available." c. "It would not be appropriate for me to make a decision about your health." d. "There is no need to make a decision rapidly; you have time to think about this."
What might cause gas exchange to be impaired?
What will be an ideal response?