Which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate for a patient with xerostomia?

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect choice because temperature, pulse, and blood pressure are not the most important vital signs for a patient who is experiencing shortness of breath. Temperature is not directly related to respiratory function, and pulse and blood pressure can be affected by other factors, such as anxiety or medication.

Choice B reason: This is the correct choice because pulse, respirations, and oxygen saturation are the most important vital signs for a patient who is experiencing shortness of breath. Pulse reflects the heart rate and rhythm, which can be altered by respiratory distress. Respirations reflect the rate and depth of breathing, which can indicate the severity of the condition. Oxygen saturation reflects the percentage of hemoglobin that is bound with oxygen, which can indicate the adequacy of oxygenation.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because temperature, pulse, and respirations are not the most important vital signs for a patient who is experiencing shortness of breath. Temperature is not directly related to respiratory function, and respirations alone do not provide enough information about the oxygenation status of the patient.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect choice because respirations, blood pressure, and pain are not the most important vital signs for a patient who is experiencing shortness of breath. Blood pressure can be affected by other factors, such as anxiety or medication, and pain is a subjective symptom that can vary from person to person. Oxygen saturation is a more objective and reliable indicator of oxygenation than pain.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Wiping up the liquid with paper towels and gloves can spread the mercury droplets and increase the risk of exposure. Mercury can also penetrate through nitrile gloves and cause skin irritation.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Disinfecting the area with chlorine bleach can create toxic vapours that can harm the respiratory system. Chlorine bleach is not effective in removing mercury from the surface.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Contacting the housekeeping staff to mop up the liquid can delay the proper clean-up and disposal of mercury. Mopping can also disperse the mercury droplets and contaminate the mop and the water.

Choice D reason: This is correct. Consulting the agency’s materials safety data sheets (MSDS) is the priority action of the nurse. MSDS provide information on the hazards, precautions, and procedures for handling and disposing of mercury. The nurse should follow the MSDS guidelines and use the appropriate equipment and methods to clean up the spill.