A patient is exposed to the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and develops immunity against future infections. Which type of immunity is primarily responsible for this protection?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Humoral immunity is primarily responsible for protecting against infections by pathogens like viruses. In the case of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), the individual is exposed to the virus and develops immunity, which is typically mediated by antibodies produced by B cells. These antibodies circulate in the blood and can neutralize the virus, preventing future infections. This type of immunity is known as humoral immunity, as it involves the production of antibodies that target specific antigens, such as those present on the surface of the hepatitis B virus. In contrast, passive immunity is when antibodies are transferred from an external source, innate immunity provides immediate, non-specific defenses against pathogens, and cell-mediated immunity involves the activation of T cells to combat intracellular pathogens.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The large intestine, also known as the colon, is responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes from undigested food residue that passes through the digestive system after it has been processed in the small intestine. As the waste material moves through the colon, water is absorbed, and the remaining material forms feces. The feces are then stored until they are eliminated from the body through the rectum and anus. The liver, stomach, and pancreas play important roles in digestion and nutrient absorption, but the specific function of absorbing water and forming feces is carried out by the large intestine.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: At the concrete operational stage according to Piaget's theory, children typically demonstrate logical thinking abilities and are able to understand and work with concrete objects and events. They can also grasp concepts such as conservation and classification. These children are able to think logically about concrete events but may still struggle with abstract and hypothetical situations. Therefore, Belle, functioning at the concrete operational stage, would exhibit behaviors such as thinking logically and being able to see possibilities, as described in option A.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The patient is likely infected with Cryptosporidium parvum based on the symptoms of watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea after consuming contaminated water. Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite that can be transmitted through contaminated water sources, such as streams. Laboratory tests revealing oocysts in the stool sample further support the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium infection, as these oocysts are characteristic of this parasite. Giardia lamblia is another common protozoan parasite that can cause similar symptoms but is usually associated with more foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea. Entamoeba histolytica causes amoebic dysentery, which presents with bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Cyclospora cayetanensis also causes watery diarrhea, but it is usually associated with foodborne outbreaks rather than waterborne transmission.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Acute appendicitis is the most likely cause of the symptoms described in the pregnant woman. The classic presentation of acute appendicitis includes fever, chills, abdominal pain localized to the right lower quadrant, rebound tenderness, and guarding. Pregnant women are at a slightly higher risk of developing appendicitis due to anatomic changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy, which can lead to an atypical presentation of symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial to prevent complications such as perforation, which can be detrimental for both the mother and the fetus.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acute narrow-angle glaucoma is a medical emergency that requires timely intervention to reduce intraocular pressure. Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a medication commonly used to treat this condition as it works as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, reducing the production of aqueous humor in the eye. By reducing the production of aqueous humor, acetazolamide helps decrease intraocular pressure rapidly, which is crucial in managing acute narrow-angle glaucoma. Other options listed, such as Furosemide (Lasix), Atropine, and Urokinase (Abbokinase), are not typically used in the treatment of acute narrow-angle glaucoma.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Albuterol, also known as salbutamol, is a beta-adrenergic agonist medication commonly used for the treatment of conditions such as asthma and COPD. As a beta-adrenergic agonist, albuterol binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, causing bronchodilation, which helps to relieve bronchospasms and improve airflow to the lungs. This action leads to the relaxation of smooth muscle in the airways, thus making breathing easier for patients with COPD or asthma. Anticholinergics, corticosteroids, and methylxanthines have different mechanisms of action and are not directly related to the pharmacological action of albuterol in COPD treatment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: ** In a patient with ARDS, the priority intervention to manage respiratory failure is to initiate lung-protective mechanical ventilation with low tidal volume. ARDS is characterized by widespread inflammation and injury to the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange and severe hypoxemia. Lung-protective ventilation strategies aim to minimize ventilator-induced lung injury by using lower tidal volumes (around 6 mL/kg of predicted body weight) to reduce barotrauma and volutrauma.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Verbal abuse is the most common form of abuse experienced by nurses in their workplace. This may include insults, yelling, threats, or intimidation directed towards the nurse. Verbal abuse can have a significant impact on the nurse's mental and emotional well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, and burnout. It is important for healthcare institutions to address and prevent verbal abuse to create a safe and respectful work environment for nurses and other healthcare professionals.