A patient presents with acute onset of severe vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and nystagmus. Symptoms are worsened with head movement. Which of the following neurological conditions is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Vestibular neuritis is a condition characterized by the acute onset of severe vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and nystagmus. These symptoms are typically worsened by head movement. Vestibular neuritis is caused by inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which plays a key role in balance and spatial orientation. The classic presentation of these symptoms, along with the absence of hearing loss (which is seen in labyrinthitis), points towards vestibular neuritis as the most likely cause in this scenario. Meniere's disease presents with recurrent episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and sensation of fullness in the ear. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient's presentation of episodic throbbing headache associated with nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and aura suggests a diagnosis of migraine headache. Migraines are a common neurological condition characterized by recurrent moderate to severe headaches that are often unilateral, pulsating, and aggravated by physical activity. The presence of premonitory symptoms (aura) before the headache is a key feature commonly seen in migraines. Additionally, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound are also common features associated with migraines.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Acknowledging the patient's emotions and offering empathy and support is the most appropriate response in this situation. It is important for the nurse to show understanding and compassion towards the patient, especially when they are feeling emotional about a recent diagnosis. By acknowledging the patient's emotions, the nurse can create a supportive environment that facilitates open communication and helps the patient feel heard and valued. This approach can also help build trust between the patient and the nurse, leading to better outcomes in terms of patient care and overall well-being. Ignoring the patient's emotions, telling them to stop being emotional, or changing the subject may make the patient feel dismissed or isolated, which could negatively impact their mental and emotional state. Thus, offering empathy and support is key in helping the patient cope with their emotions and navigate through their diagnosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's best response to a patient expressing fear of the unknown regarding an upcoming surgical procedure is to provide the patient with accurate information about the surgical procedure and what to expect. This approach empowers the patient with knowledge and helps alleviate anxiety by demystifying the unknown. By educating the patient about the procedure, potential risks, and postoperative care, the nurse can help the patient feel more prepared and in control of the situation. It is crucial for healthcare providers to address patient fears with compassion, understanding, and information to support the patient through the surgical process.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The patient's presentation of central obesity, moon face, buffalo hump, purple striae, and elevated cortisol levels strongly suggest Cushing's syndrome. Cushing's syndrome is a disorder characterized by excessive levels of cortisol, either due to an endogenous (e.g., adrenal tumor) or exogenous (e.g., prolonged steroid use) source. The classic physical features of Cushing's syndrome include central obesity with thin extremities (truncal obesity), moon face (rounding and reddening of the face), buffalo hump (accumulation of fat between the shoulders), and purple striae (stretch marks that are wide and purple in color). In the context of the elevated cortisol levels, these clinical signs are highly indicative of Cushing's syndrome. Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and diabetes mellitus would not typically present with the specific combination of symptoms described.