A patient presents with sudden-onset, severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting. On examination, the affected eye appears red, with a steamy cornea and mid-dilated, non-reactive pupil. Which of the following conditions is most likely responsible for this presentation?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical presentation described is highly suggestive of acute angle-closure glaucoma. This condition typically presents with sudden-onset severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting. The red eye, steamy cornea (due to corneal edema), and mid-dilated, non-reactive pupil (from the unopposed force of the dilator muscle) are classic findings in acute angle-closure glaucoma. The increase in intraocular pressure compromises blood flow to the eye, leading to symptoms of blurred vision and possible visual loss. Immediate management usually involves lowering intraocular pressure with medications or surgical intervention to prevent vision loss. Central retinal artery occlusion, optic neuritis, and corneal ulcer typically present with different clinical features and are not consistent with the described presentation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The stomach is the organ responsible for the mechanical and chemical digestion of food. When food enters the stomach, it is mixed with stomach acid and enzymes to break down the food into smaller particles. This process helps prepare the food for further digestion and absorption of nutrients. The stomach also plays a key role in the absorption of some nutrients, such as certain vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the stomach's muscular contractions help mix the food with digestive enzymes and propel the partially digested food into the small intestine for further processing and absorption. The liver, pancreas, and large intestine have vital functions in the digestive system, but the stomach is the primary organ responsible for the initial digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The stomach is responsible for producing hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor. Hydrochloric acid helps in the breakdown of proteins during digestion, while intrinsic factor aids in the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. These two components are crucial for the proper functioning of the digestive system, particularly in breaking down food and absorbing essential nutrients. The liver is involved in bile production, the pancreas in the production of digestive enzymes, and the small intestine in nutrient absorption, but the specific functions related to hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor are primarily attributed to the stomach.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When controlling severe external bleeding from an extremity, the recommended action is to apply direct pressure with a sterile dressing. Direct pressure helps to stop the bleeding by promoting clot formation and reducing blood flow from the wound. This method is effective in most cases and should be the first response to control bleeding. Elevating the extremity above the level of the heart can be helpful in some cases, but direct pressure is the initial recommended action. Applying a tourniquet proximal to the injury site should only be done as a last resort when other methods are not successful, as it can lead to complications such as tissue damage. Removing any impaled objects can actually worsen the bleeding and should be avoided unless necessary for immediate life-saving measures.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The recommended position for a conscious patient experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation is the High-Fowler's position. This position involves the patient sitting upright or almost upright at about a 90-degree angle. The High-Fowler's position helps improve ventilation by expanding the lungs and maximizing airflow in and out of the airways. It also reduces the work of breathing in patients with asthma by allowing gravity to assist in moving air in and out of the lungs more easily. Additionally, this position can help alleviate shortness of breath and improve oxygenation in patients experiencing an asthma exacerbation.