When assessing the force, or strength, of a pulse, the nurse recalls that the pulse:
a. Is usually recorded on a 0- to 2-point scale.
b. Demonstrates elasticity of the vessel wall.
c. Is a reflection of the heart's stroke volume.
d. Reflects the blood volume in the arteries during diastole.
ANS: C
The heart pumps an amount of blood (the stroke volume) into the aorta. The force flares the arterial walls and generates a pressure wave, which is felt in the periphery as the pulse.
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A female patient who has hepatitis C is being treated with pegylated interferon alfa and ribavirin [Ribasphere]. It will be important for the nurse to teach this patient that:
a. if she gets pregnant, she should use the inhaled form of ribavirin [Virazole]. b. if she is taking oral contraceptives, she should also take a protease inhibitor. c. she should use a hormonal contraceptive to avoid pregnancy. d. she will need a monthly pregnancy test during her treatment.
A nurse is providing care for at-risk minority groups in rural America. Which health care needs are appropriate for the nurse to address? Select all that apply
a. Field sanitation b. Infectious diseases c. Maternal care services d. Oral/dental care
A client with a new case is complaining of itching under the cast. Which should the nurse instruct this client?
1. Use a back scratcher to scratch under the cast. 2. Use a wooden spoon to scratch inside the cast. 3. Blow air from a hair dryer set to cool under the cast, or apply ice. 4. Take an antihistamine to reduce itching.
How much fentanyl is contained in each transdermal system? 
A. 5 mg B. 100 mg C. 100 mcg D. 10 mg