A patient presents with gradual-onset memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with complex tasks such as managing finances and planning. Over time, the patient develops disorientation to time and place and requires assistance with activities of daily living. Which of the following neurological conditions is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient's presentation of gradual-onset memory loss, confusion, difficulty with complex tasks, disorientation, and functional decline are all classic features of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, leading to widespread neuronal damage and cognitive decline. As the disease progresses, patients typically experience worsening memory loss, cognitive impairment, and deficits in activities of daily living, ultimately requiring full-time care and assistance. Other neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and frontotemporal dementia may present with cognitive impairment and behavioral changes, but the specific constellation of symptoms described in the case is most indicative of Alzheimer's disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The diagnostic test that could be useful in confirming the diagnosis of Dengue Fever is the ELISA test. ELISA stands for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. This test detects the presence of dengue virus-specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) in the blood of an individual suspected to have dengue fever. Elevated levels of these antibodies indicate a recent or ongoing dengue virus infection. ELISA is a standard and reliable test used in diagnosing dengue fever, along with clinical symptoms and other laboratory tests.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Amitriptyline, being a tricyclic antidepressant, commonly causes anticholinergic side effects. These effects include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, urinary retention, and confusion. Anticholinergic effects are due to the drug's inhibition of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which can lead to the symptoms mentioned above. These side effects can be bothersome for patients taking amitriptyline, but they are generally manageable and often improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. In the case of bulimia treatment, the benefits of using amitriptyline to address the underlying psychological issues often outweigh the side effects.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When one has Cushing's disease, the focal structure affected is the pituitary gland. Cushing's disease is caused by the overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland. This excess ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol, leading to the symptoms associated with Cushing's disease. Therefore, the primary issue originates in the pituitary gland, not the other structures mentioned in the question.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The physician is ultimately responsible for prescribing the correct dosage of medication to the patient. However, the nurse also plays a critical role in ensuring patient safety by questioning any orders that appear to be unusual or incorrect. In this scenario, the nurse had doubts about the unusually large dosage but was reassured by the senior nurse that the order was correct. Both the physician and the nurse failed in their responsibilities, leading to the patient's unfortunate death. The senior nurse also shares liability as they provided incorrect guidance to the nurse administering the medication. Ultimately, the situation was a result of a breakdown in communication and adherence to proper procedures by both the physician and the nurse.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Placing her hand over Marlene's shoulder and asking why the sad face is the best way for Nurse Myra to communicate her concern. This approach shows empathy and creates a safe space for Marlene to open up about her feelings. By using physical touch and showing genuine interest in Marlene's well-being, Nurse Myra can effectively address the situation and provide appropriate support or guidance as needed. Simply dismissing Marlene's feelings (option B and C) or resorting to religious advice (option A) may not effectively address the underlying cause of Marlene's sadness. It is important in situations like this to show empathy, compassion, and a willingness to listen in order to provide the best support for the individual in distress.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to ensure patient safety during a bedside bronchoscopy procedure is to obtain informed consent from the patient or their legal representative. Informed consent is a vital ethical and legal requirement before any medical procedure. It ensures that the patient understands the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure, as well as gives the patient the authority to make decisions about their healthcare. By obtaining informed consent, the nurse ensures that the patient has been properly informed and agrees to undergo the bronchoscopy, which promotes patient autonomy and safety. Administering sedation, using topical anesthesia, and restricting food intake are also important aspects of bronchoscopy preparation, but obtaining informed consent is the primary action to prioritize patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the patient is presenting with acute exacerbation of chronic heart failure (CHF) complicated by pulmonary edema and respiratory distress. The priority intervention for managing this exacerbation is to initiate positive pressure ventilation for respiratory support. Positive pressure ventilation, such as non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) or invasive mechanical ventilation, can help improve oxygenation and decrease the work of breathing for the patient. By providing adequate respiratory support, ventilation can reduce the negative effects of pulmonary edema and respiratory distress due to CHF exacerbation. Administering intravenous loop diuretics (Choice A) might be necessary to address fluid overload, but it is not the initial priority as ensuring adequate ventilation is crucial. Emergent pericardiocentesis (Choice C) is not indicated in this scenario as there is no mention of cardiac tamponade. Inotropic medications (Choice D) may be considered in managing acute exacerbation of CHF but

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Entamoeba histolytica is a parasitic protist known to cause amoebiasis, a gastrointestinal infection that can lead to symptoms such as foul-smelling diarrhea containing cysts. Upon microscopic examination of the feces, the presence of Entamoeba histolytica cysts is a key diagnostic feature. This parasite can be transmitted through contaminated food or water, and individuals infected with Entamoeba histolytica may experience abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and weight loss. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage this infection and prevent complications.