A patient presents with watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea after consuming contaminated water from a stream during a camping trip. Laboratory tests reveal oocysts in the stool sample. Which of the following parasites is most likely responsible for this infection?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Cryptosporidium parvum is a protozoan parasite that commonly causes waterborne illness characterized by watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. This parasite is often transmitted through contaminated water sources such as streams or lakes. Laboratory tests identifying oocysts in the stool sample are indicative of Cryptosporidium infection. Giardia lamblia can also cause similar symptoms, but the presence of oocysts points more towards Cryptosporidium in this case. Entamoeba histolytica causes amoebic dysentery with bloody diarrhea and is usually associated with fecal-oral transmission through contaminated food or water. Cyclospora cayetanensis typically causes prolonged watery diarrhea and is associated with the ingestion of contaminated food or water.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A prolapsed umbilical cord is a medical emergency during labor because it can cause compression of the umbilical cord, leading to decreased oxygen supply to the fetus. The priority nursing action in this situation is to prepare for an immediate cesarean section. This is necessary to quickly deliver the baby and relieve pressure on the cord, preventing potential fetal distress or death. Elevating the mother's hips may help reduce pressure on the cord temporarily, but it is not the definitive treatment for a prolapsed cord. Administering intravenous fluids rapidly may be necessary, but it is not the priority intervention when the fetus is at risk due to a prolapsed cord. Performing a vaginal examination to assess cervical dilation is contraindicated in the presence of a prolapsed umbilical cord as it can further compress the cord and worsen the situation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rapid capillary refill is a sign indicative of shock in a trauma patient. Shock is a life-threatening condition where the body's organs and tissues do not receive adequate blood flow and oxygen, leading to cellular damage and eventual organ failure. In a trauma patient, rapid capillary refill suggests poor perfusion, which is a common feature of shock. The capillary refill time is an important clinical assessment that measures the time it takes for color to return to the nail bed after pressure is applied. In cases of shock, the refill time is faster than normal, indicating a systemic circulatory disturbance. Other signs of shock may include tachycardia (increased heart rate), hypotension (not hypertension), and hypothermia (not hyperthermia).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The professional conduct of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers in health facilities primarily aligns with patient care standards. This quality standard ensures that healthcare professionals prioritize the well-being, safety, and comfort of the patients they serve. Patient care standards encompass various aspects of healthcare delivery, including effective communication, compassionate treatment, adherence to medical protocols, and respect for patient rights and confidentiality. By upholding patient care standards, healthcare providers demonstrate their commitment to delivering quality care and maintaining the trust and confidence of their patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the mother, who is 35 years old and illiterate but with on and off seizure, is the best candidate to sign the informed consent for a surgical procedure for the child. The mother is the primary caregiver and decision-maker for the child in most cases, and her relationship to the child is most crucial in this situation. Despite her illiteracy, she can still comprehend the importance of the procedure for her child's well-being. Additionally, accommodations can be made for an illiterate person to sign the consent form by using an "X" as a signature. It is important that the person signing the consent form has a clear understanding of the risks and benefits involved, as well as the ability to make decisions in the best interest of the child.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When Nurse Maris is estimating the proportion of the population affected by the problem, she is assessing the magnitude of the problem. The magnitude criterion involves determining the extent of the issue within the community, such as the number of individuals affected or at risk. By understanding the magnitude of a health problem, nurses can better prioritize their efforts to address the most pressing issues that affect a large portion of the population. This criterion helps in identifying which health problems have the highest impact and require immediate attention in order to improve community health outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Weight reduction is the most important focus in the health teachings provided by the nurse. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall well-being and can significantly reduce the risk of various health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. By emphasizing weight reduction, the nurse can help improve the patient's overall health and quality of life. Jogging a mile a day and vigorous exercise are beneficial for weight management, but it is important to address the root cause of potential health problems which in this case may be excess weight. Moreover, emphasizing the importance of weight reduction does not necessarily mean encouraging extreme dieting; instead, it involves promoting a balanced and healthy approach to eating and physical activity.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse does not need to determine the age of Excel when planning for Sonny's oxygen therapy. This information is irrelevant to the specific care requirements of Sonny's oxygen therapy. Sonny's age, medical history, respiratory status, and oxygen needs are the key considerations in planning for his oxygen therapy. The nurse should focus on factors such as the need for a humidifier, length of tubing, and the manner of administering oxygen (continuous or intermittent) to ensure effective and safe delivery of oxygen therapy to Sonny.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Myxedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism that is characterized by the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in subcutaneous and other interstitial tissues. This condition leads to puffiness, swelling, and thickening of the skin, giving it a waxy appearance. Other symptoms of myxedema include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and hair loss. It is important to recognize and treat myxedema promptly as it can lead to serious complications such as myxedema coma, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.