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: The patient's presentation of well-demarcated, erythematous plaques with silvery scales on the trunk and extensor surfaces of the limbs is classic for psoriasis. Additionally, the family history of similar skin lesions further supports the diagnosis of psoriasis, as it is a condition with a genetic predisposition. Pityriasis rosea typically presents with a herald patch followed by oval, scaly lesions in a Christmas tree pattern. Erythema multiforme is characterized by target-like lesions. Lichen planus presents as purple, polygonal, flat-topped papules that may have fine white lines on their surface known as Wickham striae.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Upon clinical assessment, the nurse observes that the outstanding manifestation of the patient is edema. Edema is characterized by the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues, leading to swelling. Edema can be a sign of various health conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, or injury. It is crucial to identify and address the underlying cause of edema promptly to prevent complications and provide appropriate treatment for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary intervention that should be prioritized for managing a catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) associated with a central venous catheter is to remove the central venous catheter. CRBSI is a serious complication that can lead to severe infections and sepsis. The removal of the catheter is crucial to eliminate the source of the infection and prevent further dissemination of the pathogens into the bloodstream. Once the catheter is removed, the healthcare team can consider other interventions such as administering targeted antibiotics based on culture results, performing blood cultures to identify the causative organism, and implementing sterile dressing changes and catheter care protocols. However, immediate removal of the catheter takes precedence in managing CRBSI to prevent worsening of the infection and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation of well-demarcated, hypopigmented macules with fine scaling on the trunk and proximal extremities is classic for tinea versicolor. Tinea versicolor is a common superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia spp., which leads to hypo- or hyperpigmented patches on the skin. The condition often occurs in individuals with increased sebum production due to factors such as hot and humid climates, sweating, and oily skin. History of sun exposure and outdoor activities is also commonly reported by patients with tinea versicolor. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications applied topically or taken orally to eliminate the fungus. Differentiating tinea versicolor from other skin conditions, such as vitiligo, pityriasis rosea, or seborrheic keratosis, is important for appropriate management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The Philippine Nurses Association, Inc. (PNA) is the accredited professional organization of nurses in the Philippines. PNA is recognized as the official organization of all registered nurses in the country, dedicated to fostering high standards of nursing practice, education, and professional growth. It plays a key role in advocating for the rights and welfare of nurses, as well as promoting the advancement of the nursing profession in the Philippines. Membership in the PNA provides nurses with access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support for continuous professional development.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The described presentation is classic for acute angle-closure glaucoma. This condition is characterized by sudden-onset severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting. The red eye, steamy cornea (corneal edema), and mid-dilated non-reactive pupil are consistent with acute angle-closure glaucoma. The sudden increase in intraocular pressure leads to impaired aqueous humor outflow, causing these symptoms. Immediate intervention is required to prevent permanent vision loss in such cases. Central retinal artery occlusion would present with sudden painless vision loss. Optic neuritis typically presents with vision loss and pain with eye movements. Corneal ulcer presents with eye discomfort, foreign body sensation, and may have a history of corneal trauma or contact lens wear.

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: According to the 2017 demography report based on the July 2016 estimate, the Philippine population was approximately 102 million. This data is derived from official census data and estimates made by the Philippine Statistics Authority. As of that time, the country's population had not reached 140 million, 120 million, or 85 million as the other options suggest.