A patient presents with recurrent episodes of epistaxis, gum bleeding, and easy bruising. Laboratory tests reveal prolonged bleeding time, normal platelet count, and normal PT and aPTT. Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause these findings?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical presentation of recurrent episodes of epistaxis, gum bleeding, and easy bruising, along with laboratory findings of prolonged bleeding time, normal platelet count, and normal coagulation studies (PT and aPTT) are highly suggestive of Von Willebrand disease. Von Willebrand disease is the most common inherited bleeding disorder and is characterized by a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor (vWF), which plays a key role in platelet adhesion and aggregation. The prolonged bleeding time is due to impaired platelet adhesion to the damaged vessel wall in the absence of functional vWF. Normal platelet count and normal PT/aPTT help differentiate Von Willebrand disease from other bleeding disorders such as hemophilia and platelet function disorders like Glanzmann thrombasthenia and Bernard-Soulier syndrome.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The patient is presenting with symptoms consistent with cluster headache. Cluster headaches are characterized by recurrent episodes of severe unilateral (ipsilateral) headache accompanied by lacrimation (tearing from the eyes), rhinorrhea (runny nose), and ptosis (drooping of the eyelid). These headaches often occur in clusters over a period of weeks to months, hence the name "cluster headache."

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Pituitary adenoma is the most likely neurological condition responsible for the described symptoms of acute onset severe headache, visual disturbances, and altered mental status when a tumor is found compressing the optic chiasm. Pituitary adenomas are benign tumors arising from the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. As the tumor grows, it can compress nearby structures such as the optic chiasm, leading to visual disturbances (due to pressure on the optic nerves), severe headache (due to increased intracranial pressure), and altered mental status (due to effects on nearby brain structures).

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Using professional medical interpreters is the best approach when communicating with a patient who speaks a different language. This ensures accurate communication and helps prevent misunderstandings that can have serious consequences for the patient's health. Family members or friends may not be fluent in the necessary medical terminology and could unintentionally misinterpret information. Relying solely on written instructions can also be risky as the patient may have difficulty reading or comprehending the information. Speaking loudly and slowly may come across as disrespectful and does not address the root issue of the language barrier. Professional medical interpreters are trained to facilitate effective communication between healthcare providers and patients, ensuring that the patient receives the best possible care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's best response when a patient expresses frustration with the healthcare system's inefficiencies is to listen actively to the patient's concerns, acknowledge the challenges they are facing, and offer support. It is important for the nurse to validate the patient's feelings and demonstrate empathy, rather than dismissing or ignoring their frustrations. By offering support and showing understanding, the nurse can help the patient feel heard and valued, which is an essential aspect of providing patient-centered care. This approach can also help to strengthen the nurse-patient relationship and build trust, ultimately leading to better outcomes for the patient's overall healthcare experience.