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: A

Rationale: The patient requiring a dressing change of post-caesarian surgery should be assigned to the midwife because this task involves specialized knowledge and skills related to wound care and post-operative care. Performing a dressing change for a post-caesarian surgery patient requires expertise to ensure proper hygiene, wound healing, and prevention of post-operative complications. This task goes beyond the scope of practice for a nursing assistant and should be done by a healthcare professional with higher qualifications and training, such as a midwife.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Reviewing and comparing the findings with other researches on the same topic is done mainly by going back to the related literature and studies section of the study. This section provides a comprehensive overview of existing knowledge and research findings related to the topic being studied. By comparing the current findings with what has been previously discovered and reported by other researchers, Nurse Carmi can better analyze and interpret the results within the broader context of the existing body of knowledge. This helps in identifying the significance of the new findings, highlighting potential contributions to the field, and determining areas for further research or discussion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient in this scenario presents with normocytic normochromic anemia, normal iron studies, and elevated serum erythropoietin levels. These findings are characteristic of anemia of chronic disease, which is commonly seen in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In CKD, there is a decrease in renal production of erythropoietin, leading to reduced stimulation of erythropoiesis and subsequent anemia. The normocytic normochromic anemia pattern is typical in anemia of chronic disease, as opposed to microcytic hypochromic anemia seen in iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia. Aplastic anemia is characterized by pancytopenia, which is not described in the scenario. Therefore, the most likely cause of the patient's presentation is chronic kidney disease.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The described clinical presentation of a yellowish-white spot on the cornea with a ring of inflammation, along with branching, filamentous opacities extending from the corneal lesion, is highly suggestive of fungal keratitis. Fungal keratitis is commonly caused by filamentous fungi such as Fusarium and Aspergillus species. The characteristic finding of branching, filamentous opacities seen on slit-lamp examination is classic for fungal infections of the cornea. It is important to promptly diagnose and treat fungal keratitis since delayed or inadequate management can result in vision-threatening complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The best time for an incontinent patient to take diuretics is at bedtime. This timing allows for increased urine production during the night, consequently reducing the need for frequent toileting during the day. By taking the diuretic at bedtime, the patient can manage their incontinence more effectively and have better rest without disruptions from frequent urination during the day.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring oxygen saturation with pulse oximetry is essential for preventing respiratory depression in a patient prescribed an opioid analgesic. Opioid analgesics can suppress the respiratory drive, leading to respiratory depression. By constantly monitoring the patient's oxygen saturation levels with pulse oximetry, nurses can promptly detect any signs of respiratory depression and intervene early to prevent serious complications. This allows for timely adjustments in the medication dosage or administration of other supportive measures to maintain adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory compromise. Administering naloxone prophylactically may be necessary in case of an opioid overdose but is not typically done as a preventive measure. Encouraging deep breathing exercises can help prevent respiratory complications postoperatively but may not be sufficient in the presence of opioid-induced respiratory depression. Administering bronchodilators as needed is not directly related to preventing respiratory depression caused by opioid analgesics.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Patient Sonia, who has hypothyroidism, would benefit from treatment with levothyroxine. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) and is commonly prescribed to replace the deficient thyroid hormone in patients with hypothyroidism. It helps restore the thyroid hormone levels in the body, relieving symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance that are characteristic of hypothyroidism. Propranolol is a beta-blocker used for conditions like hypertension, anxiety, and migraines; iron pills are used to treat iron deficiency anemia; and iodine supplementation is not typically used in the treatment of hypothyroidism unless it is due to iodine deficiency.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a patient with acute respiratory failure and hypercapnia due to a COPD exacerbation, the most appropriate intervention is the initiation of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). NIPPV helps improve ventilation and oxygenation by providing mechanical support to the patient's breathing without the need for endotracheal intubation. It can reduce the work of breathing, decrease carbon dioxide retention, and improve respiratory muscle function. This intervention is particularly beneficial for COPD exacerbations as it can help alleviate hypercapnia and hypoxemia, leading to improved outcomes and potentially reducing the need for invasive ventilation methods. Therefore, NIPPV is the recommended management strategy in this scenario.