A patient in the ICU develops acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) requiring urgent intervention. What intervention should the healthcare team prioritize to manage the patient's bleeding?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The healthcare team should prioritize performing endoscopic hemostasis with mechanical or thermal techniques in a patient with acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) requiring urgent intervention. This approach involves directly visualizing the bleeding site and applying methods such as clipping, coagulation, or band ligation to stop the bleeding. Endoscopic hemostasis is considered the gold standard for managing acute GIB as it allows for both diagnostic and therapeutic intervention in real-time, offering a targeted and effective way to control bleeding and prevent recurrent episodes. Administering proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may help in reducing gastric acid secretion and promoting ulcer healing but is not the primary intervention for actively bleeding patients. Implementing strict bed rest may be necessary in some cases to minimize physical exertion, but it is not the primary intervention to manage acute GIB. Transfusion of fresh frozen plasma to correct coagulopathy may be necessary if

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A discectomy is a surgical procedure commonly performed to decompress the nerve root by removing a portion of the herniated disc that is pressing on the nerve. In cases of herniated discs causing radicular symptoms (such as pain radiating down the leg), a discectomy can help alleviate the compression on the nerve, reduce symptoms, and improve the patient's condition. This procedure involves removing the portion of the disc that is herniated or bulging out to relieve pressure on the nerve root, allowing for improved function and reduced pain. Spinal fusion, laminectomy, and foraminotomy are other surgical procedures that are not typically performed for the direct decompression of the nerve root in cases of herniated discs at a specific level like the L5-S1 level.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Dupuytren's contracture is a condition characterized by the thickening and tightening of the tissue beneath the skin of the hand, leading to the fingers being pulled into a bent position. One of the common complications associated with Dupuytren's contracture is the development of a Swan-neck deformity. This deformity is characterized by hyperextension of the proximal interphalangeal joint and flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint. It is important to recognize and address complications like Swan-neck deformity in individuals with Dupuytren's contracture to prevent further functional impairment and disability.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The presentation of a patient with diabetes mellitus showing symptoms of polyuria, polydipsia, nocturia, and fatigue along with laboratory findings of hyperglycemia, glycosuria, and ketonuria is indicative of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and ketosis. The increased glucose levels lead to glycosuria, causing osmotic diuresis resulting in polyuria, polydipsia, and nocturia. The body starts breaking down fats for energy in the absence of sufficient insulin, leading to the production of ketones causing ketonuria. The patient may also experience fatigue due to the metabolic abnormalities present in DKA.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by an imbalance between bone resorption (breakdown of bone tissue) and bone formation, leading to bone thinning and increased risk of fractures. In osteoporosis, bones become weak and porous, making them more prone to fractures even with minor trauma. This condition is common in postmenopausal women and older individuals. Risk factors for osteoporosis include age, gender, family history, lack of physical activity, low calcium and vitamin D intake, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercises, and sometimes medication to help slow down bone loss and reduce fracture risk. Early detection and management of osteoporosis are crucial to prevent fractures and maintain bone health.