A pregnant woman presents with recurrent episodes of severe abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation. On examination, an abdominal mass is palpable, and bowel sounds are diminished. Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Ovarian torsion is the most likely cause of the pregnant woman's symptoms as described. Ovarian torsion occurs when the ovary twists on its pedicle, leading to compromised blood flow to the ovary. This can cause severe abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation. On examination, an abdominal mass may be palpable due to an enlarged, twisted ovary. Bowel sounds may be diminished due to the effect of the torsion on surrounding structures. Ectopic pregnancy, threatened abortion, and placenta previa are less likely to present with an abdominal mass and diminished bowel sounds.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Dupuytren's contracture is a condition characterized by the thickening and tightening of the tissue beneath the skin of the hand, leading to the fingers being pulled into a bent position. One of the common complications associated with Dupuytren's contracture is the development of a Swan-neck deformity. This deformity is characterized by hyperextension of the proximal interphalangeal joint and flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint. It is important to recognize and address complications like Swan-neck deformity in individuals with Dupuytren's contracture to prevent further functional impairment and disability.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the patient's presentation of a painless thyroid nodule and hoarseness of voice is consistent with papillary thyroid carcinoma, a type of thyroid cancer. While Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease are autoimmune thyroid conditions that can lead to thyroid nodules, they typically do not present with hoarseness of voice. Diabetes mellitus does not directly cause these symptoms. Thyroid cancer, particularly papillary thyroid carcinoma, is the most likely cause based on the patient's clinical presentation and the biopsy results.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: After childbirth, the uterus undergoes involution, which is the process of returning to its pre-pregnant size and location. Initially, the fundus is firm and located at or just below the level of the umbilicus immediately after delivery. Over the next 24 hours, the fundus should gradually decrease in height as involution progresses. By the day after delivery, the nurse would expect the fundal assessment to be in line with the umbilicus or slightly below it, indicating normal involution of the uterus. If the fundus remains high or deviates from this expected progression, further assessment and intervention may be needed to prevent complications such as postpartum hemorrhage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Vestibular neuritis is a condition characterized by the acute onset of severe vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and nystagmus. These symptoms are typically worsened by head movement. Vestibular neuritis is caused by inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which plays a key role in balance and spatial orientation. The classic presentation of these symptoms, along with the absence of hearing loss (which is seen in labyrinthitis), points towards vestibular neuritis as the most likely cause in this scenario. Meniere's disease presents with recurrent episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and sensation of fullness in the ear. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary intervention that should be prioritized for managing a catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) associated with a central venous catheter is to remove the central venous catheter. CRBSI is a serious complication that can lead to severe infections and sepsis. The removal of the catheter is crucial to eliminate the source of the infection and prevent further dissemination of the pathogens into the bloodstream. Once the catheter is removed, the healthcare team can consider other interventions such as administering targeted antibiotics based on culture results, performing blood cultures to identify the causative organism, and implementing sterile dressing changes and catheter care protocols. However, immediate removal of the catheter takes precedence in managing CRBSI to prevent worsening of the infection and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A patient with chronic kidney disease prescribed a low-protein diet should avoid high-protein foods like grilled salmon, lentil soup, and beef stew. Chicken Caesar salad, on the other hand, typically contains a smaller amount of protein compared to the other options. This choice indicates an understanding of the need to limit protein intake while still enjoying a balanced meal. However, it is important to note that the quantity and portion sizes of high-protein ingredients in the salad should also be moderate to comply with a low-protein diet.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient with a history of COPD presenting with increased dyspnea, cough productive of purulent sputum, and coarse crackles on auscultation is most likely experiencing an acute exacerbation of COPD. Acute exacerbations in COPD are defined as sustained worsening of the patient's respiratory symptoms beyond normal day-to-day variations, leading to a change in medication. Common triggers for exacerbations include respiratory infections, air pollution, and non-compliance with medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nurse Minda should alert the unit staff to closely observe the fan because the occasional sparking may be a sign of an impending issue that could lead to a more serious problem. By closely monitoring the fan, the staff can ensure the safety of those in the unit and take necessary actions if the situation worsens. It is important to address potential safety hazards promptly to prevent any harm or damage.