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: The importance of validation in the context of communication and nursing care does not include the assumption that most patients are cognitively impaired. It would be more appropriate to approach patient interactions with the assumption that patients are capable of understanding and coherent communication. Validation is important because it helps ensure that the nurse has truly understood the patient's message, prevents misinterpretation, and fosters a sense of empathy and trust in the nurse-patient relationship. Additionally, validating the patient's thoughts and feelings can help clarify confused thoughts and promote effective communication. The other options (A, C, and D) are all valid reasons emphasizing the significance of validation in effective communication.

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The pharynx is the structure responsible for transporting food from the oral cavity to the esophagus during swallowing. When food is chewed and mixed with saliva in the oral cavity, it forms a bolus that is propelled to the pharynx by the tongue. The pharynx serves as a common passageway for both air and food, allowing the bolus to pass into the esophagus while preventing it from entering the trachea. The epiglottis, although important in preventing food from entering the airway, is not directly involved in the transportation of food from the oral cavity to the esophagus.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Tetanus toxoid provides long-lasting active immunity. When a person is vaccinated with tetanus toxoid, their immune system is stimulated to produce antibodies against the tetanus toxin. These antibodies provide protection against tetanus infection by recognizing and neutralizing the toxin if the person is exposed to the bacteria that causes tetanus in the future. This active immune response can last for many years, providing ongoing protection against tetanus. However, booster doses are recommended every 10 years to maintain adequate levels of protection.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In response to chronic hypoxia, the body adapts to increase oxygen delivery to tissues by increasing cardiac output. This is achieved by increasing the heart rate and stroke volume, allowing more oxygenated blood to be pumped to the tissues. The increased cardiac output helps compensate for the lower oxygen levels in the blood, ensuring that tissues receive an adequate supply of oxygen despite the hypoxic conditions. This physiological adaptation is essential for maintaining tissue oxygenation and supporting overall cellular function in the presence of chronic hypoxia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Negligence refers to the failure to act or perform duties according to the standard of care expected from a reasonable person in similar circumstances. In this case, Nurse Lina administering a penicillin injection that was ordered for another patient is a clear instance of negligence. It involves a breach of duty by not verifying the correct patient and medication before administration. While malpractice can also encompass negligence, it typically involves a broader scope of professional misconduct or harm caused by a healthcare provider. Assault and battery involve intentional harmful acts, which are not applicable in this situation.

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: A

Rationale: Endometriosis is the most likely condition responsible for the symptoms described in this scenario. Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, commonly affecting the pelvic structures such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic peritoneum. The main symptoms include cyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea (painful periods), and dyspareunia (pain during intercourse). The retroverted and fixed uterus on examination may be due to adhesions from endometriosis, causing the uterus to be fixed in position. Endometriosis should be considered in women of reproductive age presenting with these symptoms and pelvic examination findings.