A patient presents with a thyroid nodule and compressive symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and breathing. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy reveals colloid nodules. Which endocrine disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Thyroid nodules are abnormal growths of thyroid cells that form a lump within the thyroid gland. When a thyroid nodule becomes large enough, it can cause compressive symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and breathing. The presence of colloid nodules on fine-needle aspiration biopsy indicates a benign and common type of thyroid nodule. In this case, the symptoms are likely due to the physical pressure exerted by the thyroid nodule, rather than an underlying endocrine disorder like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, or diabetes mellitus. Therefore, the most likely cause of the patient's symptoms is the thyroid nodule itself.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The gallbladder is the structure responsible for storing and concentrating bile produced by the liver until it is needed for digestion. Bile is a digestive fluid that helps in the breakdown of fats during the digestive process. When food containing fats enters the small intestine, the gallbladder contracts and releases bile into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. The gallbladder acts as a reservoir for bile, storing it until it is needed for digestion.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Cor pulmonale is a condition characterized by right heart failure secondary to pulmonary hypertension, which is often caused by chronic hypoxemia. Chronic hypoxemia occurs in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where there is limited airflow in and out of the lungs, leading to low oxygen levels in the blood. However, the specific characteristic of pulmonary hypertension leading to right heart failure distinguishes cor pulmonale from COPD. Other conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and pulmonary embolism (PE) may also lead to hypoxemia but are not primarily associated with pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure as in cor pulmonale.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A profession is characterized by having a body of knowledge, a code of ethics, and engaging in research. However, being a member of a professional organization is not a defining characteristic of a profession. While many professionals may choose to join professional organizations for networking, support, and career advancement reasons, membership in such organizations is not universally required or exclusive to being considered a professional in a particular field. Hence, the presence or absence of professional organization membership does not determine the professional status of an individual.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Sudden, severe chest pain and dyspnea in a postpartum client could be indicative of a potential serious condition, such as a pulmonary embolism or postpartum cardiomyopathy, which require immediate medical attention. Therefore, the most appropriate nursing action would be to notify the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and management. Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position may provide some comfort but does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms. Administering supplemental oxygen therapy may be necessary once the healthcare provider assesses the client. Encouraging deep breathing exercises may not be appropriate if the client is experiencing severe chest pain and dyspnea, as it could worsen the situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The best approach for the nurse in this situation is to listen actively to the patient's religious beliefs, respect their autonomy, and explore alternative treatment options. It is important for the nurse to understand and acknowledge the patient's perspective, even if it conflicts with the recommended treatment plan. By showing respect for the patient's beliefs and involving them in the decision-making process, the nurse can work collaboratively with the patient to find a solution that aligns with their religious beliefs while also addressing their medical needs. This approach promotes patient-centered care and helps build a trusting and therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acute pyelonephritis is the most likely condition based on the patient presentation and urinalysis findings described. Acute pyelonephritis is an infection of the renal parenchyma and pelvis, typically caused by ascending bacteria from the lower urinary tract. The classic symptoms include fever, chills, flank pain, and costovertebral angle tenderness (tenderness over the kidneys). The presence of pyuria (pus in the urine) and bacteriuria (bacteria in the urine) on urinalysis further supports the diagnosis of acute pyelonephritis. It is crucial to diagnose and treat acute pyelonephritis promptly to prevent complications and recurrent infections.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Quality improvement focuses on proactive measures rather than reactive responses. The medical director would be more interested in establishing processes and systems that prevent issues from occurring in the first place, rather than just reacting to problems as they arise. Continuous improvement involves identifying problems, analyzing root causes, and implementing long-term solutions to prevent the issues from recurring. Therefore, reacting to correct or bad situations is not a characteristic of quality improvement that the medical director would prioritize.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When collecting evidence from a rape victim, it is important to handle the victim's clothing properly to preserve any potential evidence. The preferred method is to remove the clothing and place them in a paper bag. Paper bags are used in order to prevent the alteration or degradation of any DNA evidence that may be present on the clothing. Paper bags allow the clothing to breathe and prevent the growth of mold or other contaminants that can occur in plastic bags or trash bags. Additionally, paper bags help preserve trace evidence such as fibers or hairs that may be crucial in the investigation of the case. It is essential to handle and store the clothing correctly to maintain the integrity of the evidence for the investigation and potential prosecution.