A patient with a history of chronic liver disease presents with ecchymoses, mucosal bleeding, and altered mental status. Laboratory tests reveal prolonged PT and aPTT, low fibrinogen levels, and elevated D-dimer. Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause these findings?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). In DIC, there is widespread activation of coagulation leading to consumption of clotting factors, resulting in prolonged PT and aPTT, low fibrinogen levels, and elevated D-dimer. This pattern matches the laboratory findings in the patient. In liver cirrhosis (choice A), there is a decrease in clotting factors synthesis, leading to prolonged PT but not aPTT. Hemophilia A (choice C) is a genetic disorder that affects specific clotting factors, typically leading to prolonged aPTT but not PT. Vitamin K deficiency (choice D) impairs the synthesis of clotting factors, leading to prolonged PT but not aPTT and low levels of factors II, VII, IX, and X.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Subarachnoid hemorrhage. This condition presents with sudden-onset severe headache, vomiting, and altered mental status due to bleeding in the subarachnoid space. This type of hemorrhage is typically noncontrast-enhancing on imaging. A: Ischemic stroke does not typically present with sudden-onset severe headache and vomiting. B: Subdural hematoma usually presents with a slower onset of symptoms and often develops after head trauma. C: Intracerebral hemorrhage presents with focal neurological deficits rather than altered mental status and vomiting. In summary, based on the sudden onset of symptoms, imaging findings, and clinical presentation, subarachnoid hemorrhage is the most likely diagnosis in this case.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Trigeminal neuralgia. This condition is characterized by recurrent, severe, stabbing pain in the trigeminal nerve distribution triggered by touch, chewing, or cold exposure. The key feature is the characteristic lancinating pain, which is not typical of migraine (choice A), cluster headache (choice B), or tension-type headache (choice C). Migraine typically presents with pulsating, moderate to severe headache associated with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Cluster headache is characterized by severe, unilateral pain around the eye associated with autonomic symptoms. Tension-type headache presents with bilateral, pressing or tightening pain without specific triggers. Therefore, based on the description of the symptoms in the question, trigeminal neuralgia is the most likely diagnosis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because positioning oneself at eye level helps the patient see the nurse's facial expressions and lip movements, aiding in communication. Speaking clearly and slowly allows the patient to better understand. Speaking loudly can distort sound and may not be necessary. Avoiding visual aids or gestures limits communication channels. Speaking quickly can overwhelm the patient and hinder comprehension.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the nurse's role is to address the holistic needs of the patient, including financial concerns. Providing information about financial assistance programs and resources shows empathy and supports the patient in making informed decisions. Choice A is incorrect because dismissing the patient's concerns can lead to a breakdown in trust and communication. Choice C is incorrect as ignoring the patient's concerns is not addressing the patient's needs. Choice D is incorrect because financial concerns are valid and should be considered in decision-making.