Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Hypernatremia often presents with dry, sticky mucous membranes due to dehydration. Hyperreflexia and abdominal cramps may also occur, but dry mucous membranes are more consistently observed in cases of sodium excess.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Tachycardia is an early sign of shock as the body tries to maintain cardiac output in the face of declining circulatory volume. Blood pressure often remains normal until late in the progression, at which point decompensated shock is occurring.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Picking up a pencil requires the use of the pincer grasp, which involves the coordination of the thumb and forefinger to hold small objects. The pincer grasp is a fine motor skill essential for tasks that necessitate precision and dexterity. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Prehension refers to the act of grasping or holding an object, parachute reflex is a protective response to sudden movement or loss of support, and grasp reflex is an automatic closing of the hand when an object is placed in the palm, none of which specifically relate to the action of picking up a pencil.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Sudden and severe scrotal pain in an adolescent male is a medical emergency and may indicate testicular torsion, which requires immediate evaluation and intervention to prevent testicular loss.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Using simple diagrams helps school-age children understand what to expect in a procedure, catering to their developmental level and reducing anxiety. Informing toddlers too early can increase anxiety, and parents' presence is generally comforting, not discouraging.