Acrodynia, or pink disease, is a rare idiosyncratic hypersensitivity reaction to mercury that occurs predominantly in children exposed to mercurous powders. The symptom complex includes the following EXCEPT

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Generalized spasticity is not a common feature of acrodynia; the other symptoms are typical of mercury toxicity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hypernatremic dehydration occurs when water loss exceeds sodium loss, leading to increased serum osmolality (>295 mOsm/L) and sodium levels (>145 mEq/L). This can result from inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, or osmotic diuresis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Early postnatal dexamethasone is associated with adverse effects such as metabolic derangements, poor growth, and increased infection risk, but it is not directly linked to cerebral palsy. The other options are known risks.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Diarrhea leads to metabolic acidosis with a normal anion gap due to excessive bicarbonate loss in stool. This type of acidosis is known as hyperchloremic acidosis, where chloride replaces lost bicarbonate.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The Heimlich maneuver is performed to expel a foreign body from the airway in choking individuals. In unconscious patients, abdominal thrusts are avoided in favor of back blows and chest compressions.