Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Staphylococcus epidermidis. The presence of Gram-positive cocci in clusters indicates a staphylococcal species. The fact that the bacteria are catalase-positive and coagulase-negative further narrow it down to Staphylococcus epidermidis, as this species fits all the given characteristics. - Choice B, Staphylococcus aureus, is coagulase-positive. - Choice C, Streptococcus pyogenes, is a streptococcal species, not staphylococcal. - Choice D, Enterococcus faecalis, is a Gram-positive cocci but is catalase-negative and not typically found in clusters.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: ethylene oxide. Ethylene oxide is a toxic, odorless gas commonly used as a sterilizing agent in healthcare settings due to its ability to effectively kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is a highly reactive compound that can penetrate porous materials, making it an ideal choice for sterilization purposes. Incorrect choices: B: Carbon dioxide is not used as a sterilizing agent and is not toxic. C: Carbon monoxide is not commonly used for sterilization and has a distinct odor. D: Propane is not used for sterilization in healthcare settings and is not odorless.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Tuberculosis. Granulomas with lymphocytes and macrophages containing Virchow's cells (large cells with fat inclusions containing microorganisms) are classic findings in tuberculosis. Leprosy (A) typically presents with granulomas but with different histopathological features. Syphilis (B) does not usually form granulomas in the skin. Rhinoscleroma (D) is a chronic bacterial infection characterized by nodular lesions but does not typically involve Virchow's cells as seen in tuberculosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tetanus. Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, commonly found in soil, dust, and animal feces. The patient's history of a stab wound increases the risk of tetanus infection as the bacterium can enter the body through the wound. Tetanus infection can lead to symptoms such as lockjaw or trismus, which are characterized by muscle stiffness and difficulty opening the mouth. This is due to the neurotoxin produced by Clostridium tetani affecting the muscles. Summary of incorrect choices: B: Brucellosis is a bacterial infection transmitted from animals to humans through consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. It does not typically manifest with symptoms of lockjaw. C: Whooping cough (Pertussis) is a respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It presents with severe coughing fits but does not cause lockjaw. D: Anaerobic wound infection

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Insect. A vehicle transmission refers to the mode by which a disease spreads from one host to another. Insects can transmit diseases, making them a vehicle for transmission. Airborne, foodborne, and bodily fluid transmissions are well-known modes of disease spread, while insects are also known vectors for diseases like malaria and Zika.