A patient presents with sudden onset of severe, unilateral ear pain, diminished hearing, and purulent otorrhea. Otoscopic examination reveals a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane with obscured landmarks. Which of the following conditions is most likely responsible for this presentation?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Acute otitis media is the most likely condition responsible for this presentation. The sudden onset of severe, unilateral ear pain, diminished hearing, and purulent otorrhea are classic symptoms of acute otitis media. Otoscopic examination revealing a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane with obscured landmarks further supports the diagnosis. The bulging of the tympanic membrane is due to the accumulation of fluid and pus behind it, causing the characteristic appearance. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to help clear the infection and relieve symptoms. If left untreated, acute otitis media can lead to complications such as perforation of the eardrum or mastoiditis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Leaving the side rails down is one of the most common occurrences that can lead to a patient fall. Side rails are important safety measures designed to prevent patients from falling out of bed. When the side rails are left down, the patient is at a higher risk of accidentally rolling out of bed and falling. It is crucial for healthcare providers to always ensure that the side rails are up and secure to help prevent patient falls.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Identifying the patient's stage of change is crucial when someone expresses a desire to be "detoxified" from a substance like marijuana. The Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change) outlines different stages individuals go through when making behavior changes. By identifying which stage the patient is in (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, or relapse), the nurse can tailor interventions and support accordingly. This approach helps ensure that interventions are effective and appropriate for the individual's readiness for change. It is important to meet the patient where they are in their journey towards detoxification and offer support and guidance accordingly.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Oxytocin release is responsible for the mild cramping and uterine contractions experienced by the new mother while breastfeeding. When a baby suckles at the breast, it stimulates nerve endings that signal the release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary gland. Oxytocin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in stimulating the contraction of the uterine muscles, helping the uterus to contract back to its pre-pregnancy size. This process, known as uterine involution, is essential for postpartum recovery and preventing excessive bleeding. Therefore, the new mother's experience of mild cramping and uterine contractions while breastfeeding is a normal physiological response mediated by the release of oxytocin.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The hypothalamus is the link between the nervous system and the endocrine system. It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body by communicating with the pituitary gland, which is often referred to as the "master gland" of the endocrine system. The hypothalamus produces hormones that regulate the release of hormones from the pituitary gland, which then controls the functions of other endocrine glands throughout the body. This connection allows the nervous system to influence and coordinate various hormonal responses in the body, helping to regulate processes such as metabolism, growth, stress responses, and reproduction.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Spondylosis is a condition characterized by degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs, leading to narrowing of the disc space and the formation of osteophytes (bone spurs). This degenerative process commonly occurs with aging and can cause symptoms such as neck or back pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Spondylosis is a common finding on imaging studies like X-rays and MRI scans in individuals over the age of 50 and is a natural part of the aging process of the spine.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication primarily used in the treatment of schizophrenia. One of the positive effects of Clozapine is the reduction of psychotic symptoms experienced by the patient, such as hallucinations (not hearing loss). Clozapine is effective in managing both positive symptoms (hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking) and negative symptoms (apathy, social withdrawal, lack of motivation) of schizophrenia. It is known for its efficacy in reducing hallucinations and other psychotic symptoms, helping the patient to lead a more stable and functional life.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a woman in active labor is receiving intravenous oxytocin for labor augmentation, it is essential to increase the oxytocin infusion rate gradually to prevent oxytocin-induced uterine hyperstimulation. Uterine hyperstimulation can lead to complications such as fetal distress, uterine rupture, and postpartum hemorrhage. By increasing the oxytocin infusion rate gradually, the uterus has more time to adapt to the medication and reduces the risk of hyperstimulation. It is crucial for the healthcare provider to carefully monitor the woman's response to oxytocin and adjust the infusion rate as needed to ensure safe and effective labor augmentation. Monitoring for signs of uterine hyperstimulation, such as persistent contractions close together or excessive uterine activity, is crucial in preventing complications and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and baby.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: This scenario falls under the category of invasion of privacy. Invasion of privacy occurs when a person's private information or images are shared or used without their consent, leading to an intrusion of their private life. In this case, Kris, as a hospitalized movie star, had her picture taken without permission by the nursing assistant, which was later sold to a local newspaper. Kris has a right to privacy, especially during a vulnerable time like being hospitalized, and the nursing assistant violated that right by taking and selling her picture without consent. This action constitutes an invasion of privacy.