Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in immune defense against pathogens, particularly in phagocytosis - the process by which they engulf and destroy invading microorganisms. In a severe fungal infection, impaired neutrophil function would most likely affect their ability to effectively perform phagocytosis, leading to a compromised immune response against the fungal pathogen. This would result in increased susceptibility to the infection and potentially severe outcomes for the patient. Antibody production, cytokine secretion, and mast cell degranulation are important components of the immune response, but neutrophils are primarily responsible for phagocytosis in the innate immune system.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical presentation of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia after a trip to sub-Saharan Africa is highly indicative of malaria. Specifically, the presence of intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination points towards Plasmodium falciparum as the most likely causative agent. Plasmodium falciparum is the most deadly of the Plasmodium species that cause malaria and is responsible for the majority of severe malaria cases worldwide. It is transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Treatment for Plasmodium falciparum infection usually involves antimalarial medications such as artemisinin-based combination therapies.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: ORNAP stands for Operating Room Nurses Association of the Philippines, which is an appropriate professional organization for Merle to actively join after 3 years of experience in the Operating Room. ORNAP is dedicated to promoting professional growth and development, advancing the standards of perioperative nursing practice, and providing a platform for networking and collaboration among operating room nurses in the Philippines. By becoming a member of ORNAP, Merle can stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in perioperative nursing, participate in continuing education opportunities, and connect with colleagues in the same field to enhance her skills and knowledge.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe form of acute lung injury that is characterized by hypoxemia, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. When managing a patient with ARDS in the ICU, the priority intervention is to provide adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Mechanical ventilation is often necessary to support gas exchange in these patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition characterized by an abnormal enlargement of the prostate gland, which is non-cancerous. This enlargement can lead to lower urinary tract symptoms such as urinary hesitancy (difficulty starting the urine stream), weak urinary stream, incomplete bladder emptying, frequent urination, urgency, and nocturia. BPH is a common condition in aging men and is not usually associated with prostate cancer. Other conditions like prostate cancer, prostatitis, and prostate adenoma may present with similar symptoms, but BPH is specifically characterized by the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Treatment for BPH may include medications to improve symptoms or surgical procedures to reduce the size of the prostate gland.