A nurse is attending a social event when another guest coughs weakly once, grasps his throat with his hands, and cannot talk. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Perform the Heimlich maneuver.
Slap the client on the back several times.
Assist the client to the floor and begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
Observe the client before taking further action.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is the recommended first aid technique for a conscious person who is choking. This maneuver helps to expel the object blocking the airway by using the air remaining in the lungs to force it out. The nurse should stand behind the person, place their arms around the person’s waist, make a fist with one hand, and place it just above the navel. The other hand should grasp the fist, and quick, upward thrusts should be performed until the object is expelled.
Choice B reason:
Slapping the client on the back several times is not the recommended first action for a conscious adult who is choking. While back blows can be effective, they are typically used in combination with abdominal thrusts and are more commonly recommended for infants. For adults, the Heimlich maneuver is preferred as the initial response.
Choice C reason:
Assisting the client to the floor and beginning mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is not appropriate for a conscious person who is choking. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, or rescue breathing, is used when a person is not breathing and is unresponsive. In this scenario, the client is conscious but unable to speak, indicating a blocked airway that requires the Heimlich maneuver.
Choice D reason:
Observing the client before taking further action is not advisable in a choking emergency. Immediate intervention is crucial to prevent the situation from worsening. If the person is unable to speak, cough, or breathe, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed without delay.

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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Chicken broth:
Chicken broth is part of a clear liquid diet, which is typically recommended immediately after surgery to ensure the digestive system is not overburdened. While nutritious, it does not meet the criteria for a full liquid diet, which includes more substantial liquids.
Choice B reason: Flavored gelatin:
Flavored gelatin is also a component of a clear liquid diet. It is easy to digest and provides some hydration and minimal calories. However, it does not provide the nutritional value needed for a full liquid diet.
Choice C reason: Cranberry juice:
Cranberry juice is another item that fits within a clear liquid diet. It is hydrating and provides some vitamins but lacks the protein and calories necessary for a full liquid diet.
Choice D reason: Skim milk:
Skim milk is appropriate for a full liquid diet. It provides essential nutrients, including protein, calcium, and vitamins, which are necessary for recovery after surgery4. Full liquid diets are designed to be more nutritious than clear liquid diets and include items like milk, cream soups, and smooth dairy products.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Constipation is not typically associated with hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism usually speeds up the body’s metabolism, leading to symptoms like increased bowel movements or diarrhea rather than constipation.
Choice B Reason:
Sensitivity to cold is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism, where the body’s metabolism slows down. In hyperthyroidism, patients often experience heat intolerance due to an increased metabolic rate.
Choice C Reason:
Weight gain of 4.5 kg (10 lbs) in 3 weeks is also more indicative of hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism generally causes weight loss despite an increased appetite because of the accelerated metabolism.
Choice D Reason:
Frequent mood changes are a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. The excess thyroid hormones can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.
