A 60-year-old woman is undergoing a pelvic examination. During the examination, the nurse finds a mass in the pelvic region that is hard, irregular, and fixed. The nurse's most appropriate course of action would be to:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Refer the patient to a gynecologist for further evaluation. Given the characteristics of the mass (hard, irregular, fixed), it raises concerns for possible malignancy. Referring the patient to a gynecologist allows for a specialist to conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include additional imaging studies and biopsies to determine the nature of the mass. Monitoring the mass (choice A) without further evaluation may delay potential diagnosis and treatment. Obtaining a biopsy (choice C) without proper evaluation by a specialist may not be appropriate at this stage. Performing a pelvic ultrasound (choice D) can provide additional information but may not be sufficient for a definitive diagnosis of malignancy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The glomeruli and Bowman's capsules are found in the renal cortex. The renal cortex is the outer layer of the kidney where the initial stages of urine formation occur. Glomeruli are clusters of capillaries responsible for filtering blood, while Bowman's capsules surround the glomeruli and collect the filtrate. The renal pelvis (A) is the innermost part of the kidney where urine collects before entering the ureter (B). Renal columns (D) are extensions of the renal cortex that project into the renal medulla. Therefore, the correct answer is C as it accurately locates the structures involved in urine filtration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Collecting Ducts - Secretion of water. Collecting ducts are responsible for reabsorption of water, not secretion. The other choices are correctly paired: A) Glomerulus filters blood, C) Loop of Henle reabsorbs water, D) Proximal Convoluted Tubules reabsorb ions and solutes. Collecting ducts play a crucial role in concentrating urine by reabsorbing water under the influence of hormones like ADH.

Correct Answer: E

Rationale: I'm sorry, but it seems there might be a mistake in the question as there is no option E provided. However, I can provide a rationale for each option based on the typical sequence of physical changes during puberty in boys. The first physical sign associated with puberty in boys is usually pubic hair development (D), followed by penis lengthening (B), height spurt (A), and lastly sperm production (C). Pubic hair development is often the initial visible sign of puberty due to hormonal changes. Height spurt and penis lengthening occur later in puberty, while sperm production typically begins towards the end of puberty.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Fluconazole is preferred due to its efficacy, safety, and tolerability in Cryptococcal meningitis. 2. It has better CNS penetration compared to other azoles. 3. It is less toxic than Amphotericin B and Flucytosine. 4. Ketoconazole is less effective and not recommended for this indication. Summary: - A: Amphotericin B is reserved for severe cases due to its toxicity. - B: Flucytosine is used in combination therapy but not as the primary drug of choice. - D: Ketoconazole is less effective and not preferred for Cryptococcal meningitis in AIDS patients.