A hospitalized patient who has received numerous antibiotics is being assessed by the nurse, who notes that his tongue appears black and hairy. Which of the following would the nurse say to the patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "This is a fungal infection caused by all the antibiotics you've received." The black, hairy tongue is a known side effect of prolonged antibiotic use, which disrupts the balance of normal oral flora and predisposes to fungal overgrowth, specifically of the yeast Candida. Antibiotics can eliminate the competing bacteria that normally keep Candida in check. Therefore, the patient's symptoms are most likely due to a fungal infection related to antibiotic therapy, rather than a bacterial issue or temporary overgrowth of hair. Biopsy is not necessary as the condition is commonly seen in this context and can be managed with appropriate treatment for fungal overgrowth.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: child may have an infection. Enlarged, palpable, mobile, and non-tender lymph nodes in multiple areas suggest an immune response to an infection. In children, common causes include viral or bacterial infections. The size and characteristics of the lymph nodes described in the question are not typical of chronic allergies or a normal finding in a healthy child. Referral for additional evaluation would be premature without first considering the possibility of an infection, which is the most likely cause based on the provided information.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: parotid gland. This gland is located in the cheek in front of the ear. It is the largest salivary gland in the human body. The parotid gland secretes saliva into the mouth through Stenson's duct. The other choices are incorrect because Stenson's gland does not exist, the sublingual gland is located under the tongue, and the submandibular gland is located under the mandible. Therefore, the parotid gland is the only gland that fits the description given in the question.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because fixating on an object at 2 weeks is within the expected developmental range. Infants typically develop the ability to follow objects later on. Choice B is incorrect as absence of following light doesn't indicate blindness. Choice C is unnecessary and premature. Choice D is incorrect as the ability to follow objects typically develops around 6-8 weeks.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the movement of extraocular muscles is primarily controlled by cranial nerves III, IV, and VI. CN III controls most of the eye movements, CN IV controls the superior oblique muscle, and CN VI controls the lateral rectus muscle. These nerves work together to coordinate eye movements in all directions. Choices A and B are incorrect because age or cataracts do not directly impact the stimulation of extraocular muscles. Choice C is incorrect as CNs I and II are not involved in controlling extraocular muscle movement.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. In an acute infection, such as streptococcal pharyngitis, the tonsils may exhibit yellowish exudates due to bacterial pus formation. This is consistent with the presence of inflammation and infection. Choices A, B, and C describe varying degrees of tonsillar enlargement and white debris, which could be present in different conditions but are not as specific to acute infection. Therefore, the presence of yellowish exudates on the tonsils is the key indicator of an acute bacterial infection like strep throat.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "This is a fungal infection caused by all the antibiotics you've received." The black, hairy tongue is a known side effect of prolonged antibiotic use, which disrupts the balance of normal oral flora and predisposes to fungal overgrowth, specifically of the yeast Candida. Antibiotics can eliminate the competing bacteria that normally keep Candida in check. Therefore, the patient's symptoms are most likely due to a fungal infection related to antibiotic therapy, rather than a bacterial issue or temporary overgrowth of hair. Biopsy is not necessary as the condition is commonly seen in this context and can be managed with appropriate treatment for fungal overgrowth.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because shining a light across the pupil from the side allows for both direct (ipsilateral) and consensual (contralateral) pupillary constriction to be observed. This technique helps to assess the integrity of the cranial nerves involved in the pupillary light reflex (CN II and III). Direct constriction occurs in the eye exposed to the light, while consensual constriction occurs in the opposite eye. This comprehensive assessment ensures that both pupils are responding appropriately to light stimulation, providing a more accurate evaluation of the reflex. Choice A is incorrect because inspecting for pupillary constriction from directly in front may not adequately assess for consensual constriction in the opposite eye. Choice B is incorrect as asking the patient to follow the penlight in eight directions does not specifically target the pupillary light reflex. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses on accommodation rather than the pupillary light reflex.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Teeth that appear shorter. As people age, teeth naturally wear down and may appear shorter due to years of use. This is a normal part of the aging process. B: A smoother tongue is not a typical age-related change. C: Beefy red buccal mucosa may be indicative of an underlying health issue, not solely related to aging. D: A painless lump on the tongue could be a sign of a more serious condition and should be investigated further.