Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The classic presentation of scabies includes a rash characterized by erythematous papules and vesicles that are arranged in a linear or burrow-like distribution. These linear tracks are often seen in areas such as the interdigital spaces, wrists, elbows, axillae, belt line, and genitalia. It is commonly associated with intense itching, especially at night. Unlike psoriasis, which presents with silvery scales and well-defined borders, or contact dermatitis, which results from exposure to a specific allergen or irritant, scabies is caused by a parasitic mite infestation. Atopic dermatitis, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by pruritic eczematous lesions, but it typically does not manifest with a linear distribution of lesions like scabies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The extraneous variable in a study is a variable that is not the main focus of the study but could potentially impact the results. In this case, the length of stay is an extraneous variable because it is not directly related to the research question or objective of the study. The study is likely focused on factors such as patient age, complications, or date of admission, making the length of stay an irrelevant variable in this context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In order to understand and interpret a message accurately, it is essential to consider the context in which it was delivered. Context provides the necessary background information, setting, and circumstances that give meaning and relevance to the message being communicated. Without context, it can be challenging to fully grasp the intention and significance of the communication. While the other options (process, phrases and sentences, thoughts and feelings) play roles in communication, it is the context that ultimately helps to give meaning and context to the message being conveyed.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The patient's presentation of excessive thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue align with the classic symptoms of diabetes mellitus. The laboratory findings of hypernatremia (high sodium levels), hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels), and metabolic acidosis further support this diagnosis. In diabetes mellitus, the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels due to either insufficient insulin production (Type 1 diabetes) or ineffective use of insulin by the cells (Type 2 diabetes). This leads to high blood sugar levels, causing symptoms such as polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), and fatigue. The metabolic acidosis is a result of the body's breakdown of fats and proteins for energy due to the lack of glucose utilization in the cells.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Fidelity is a principle of ethics that relates to being faithful or loyal to one's commitments and responsibilities. When Nurse Pat promises to assist the post-surgical patient with ambulation after carrying out the physician's order, she is demonstrating fidelity by honoring her commitment to the patient. This principle highlights the importance of keeping promises, being reliable, and maintaining trust in the nurse-patient relationship.