A patient presents with fever, chills, headache, and myalgia after returning from a trip to sub-Saharan Africa. Laboratory tests reveal intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination. Which of the following is the most likely causative agent?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical presentation of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia after a trip to sub-Saharan Africa is highly indicative of malaria. Specifically, the presence of intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination points towards Plasmodium falciparum as the most likely causative agent. Plasmodium falciparum is the most deadly of the Plasmodium species that cause malaria and is responsible for the majority of severe malaria cases worldwide. It is transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Treatment for Plasmodium falciparum infection usually involves antimalarial medications such as artemisinin-based combination therapies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the physician-specialist assessed the patient and determined that an immediate sonogram is needed for the medical condition. An intervention is a specific action taken in response to a medical need or condition. Ordering an immediate sonogram falls under the category of an intervention because it involves a timely and targeted diagnostic procedure to address the medical situation identified by the physician. The other options (A. Operation Room, C. Laboratory, D. CT scan) do not accurately represent the specific action of ordering a sonogram in response to the medical condition assessed by the physician.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Breast tenderness is a hallmark symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which occurs in the days leading up to menstruation. This symptom is often associated with hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Women may experience increased sensitivity and soreness in their breasts, making them feel tender or swollen. It is a common symptom of PMS and can vary in severity from one individual to another. Pelvic pain, postmenopausal bleeding, and dyspareunia are not typically considered hallmark symptoms of PMS.

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: B

Rationale: When a patient with a suspected spinal injury is found unconscious, the priority action is to secure the airway without jeopardizing the cervical spine. A jaw thrust maneuver is the appropriate technique to open the airway in this situation because it allows for the maintenance of neutral alignment of the cervical spine while ensuring proper ventilation. Moving the patient to a flat surface or applying a cervical collar could potentially worsen the spinal injury if not done correctly, and checking for responsiveness should only be done after ensuring a patent airway. Therefore, the safest and most effective initial action is to perform a jaw thrust maneuver to establish a clear airway.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation of sudden-onset, painless vision loss in the right eye with a cherry-red spot at the macula and attenuated retinal vessels is classic for central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). In this condition, the blockage of the central retinal artery results in severe ischemia of the retina, leading to rapid and profound vision loss. The cherry-red spot at the macula is a result of preserved choroidal circulation contrasting with the pale, ischemic retina. Attenuated retinal vessels are also commonly observed due to decreased blood flow. Prompt evaluation and management are critical in CRAO to potentially restore some vision and prevent further ischemic damage to the retina.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The responsibility of obtaining informed consent typically falls on the physician or the healthcare provider who is performing the procedure or treatment. Informed consent is a process where the healthcare provider explains the procedure, its risks, benefits, possible alternatives, and potential outcomes to the patient or their legal representative. The patient must have a comprehensive understanding of these aspects before agreeing to the treatment. While nurses, nurse managers, anesthesiologists, midwives, and other healthcare professionals may assist in the consent process by providing information or clarifications, the ultimate responsibility lies with the physician. This is because the physician is usually the one with the expertise and knowledge about the specific procedure or treatment being performed.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The appropriate way to correct an error in the Nurses Notes is to draw a single line across the error and initial it. This method is recommended because it indicates that there was an error made, while still preserving the original information for audit and legal purposes. It shows transparency and accountability in documentation, as the original information remains visible. Taking the whole page out and replacing it with a fresh one can lead to discrepancies and potential legal issues if there are inconsistencies in the documentation. Using methods like using the sticky side of the plastic tape or a rubber eraser can make the documentation look unprofessional and raises questions about the accuracy and integrity of the notes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to ensure proper insertion technique during a urinary catheterization is to use aseptic technique and sterile equipment. This is crucial in preventing infections and ensuring patient safety. Aseptic technique involves maintaining cleanliness and preventing the introduction of harmful microorganisms during invasive procedures like catheterization. Using sterile equipment helps minimize the risk of introducing bacteria into the urinary tract, which could lead to a urinary tract infection (UTI). Therefore, it is essential that the nurse follows strict infection control protocols and uses sterile equipment to maintain patient safety and well-being during the catheterization procedure.