In diagnosing seizure disorder, which of the following is the most beneficial? A.Skull radiographs

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In diagnosing seizure disorder, the most beneficial diagnostic test is an Electroencephalogram (EEG). An EEG is a non-invasive test that records electrical activity in the brain. It is crucial for detecting abnormal brain wave patterns associated with seizures. Skull radiographs, brain scans, and lumbar punctures are not typically used as primary tests for diagnosing seizure disorders. A brain scan may be helpful in identifying structural abnormalities that could be causing seizures, but an EEG is more specific for detecting abnormal electrical activity associated with seizures.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Failure to pass meconium within the first 24 hours after birth is a characteristic sign of Hirschsprung's disease. This condition is a congenital disorder in which there is a lack of ganglion cells in certain portions of the large intestine. As a result, the affected segment of the bowel is unable to relax and pass stool, leading to the accumulation of meconium in the intestine. This condition can present with symptoms such as abdominal distension, constipation, and failure to pass stool. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as bowel perforation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Beta-adrenergic agonists like albuterol primarily work by relaxing and dilating the bronchioles, which are the smaller airways in the lungs. This leads to quick relief of asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. By opening up the airways, these medications help improve airflow and make it easier for the individual to breathe. Beta-adrenergic agonists do not directly reduce airway inflammation, but they do provide immediate relief during an asthma attack by targeting bronchoconstriction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Microcytic, hypochromic anemia is characterized by small red blood cells with decreased hemoglobin content. Iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia are the two main types of anemia that present with these characteristics. Iron deficiency anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the body, which is essential for the production of hemoglobin. Thalassemia is a genetic disorder that results in decreased production of normal hemoglobin. Both conditions lead to small, pale red blood cells, fitting the description of microcytic, hypochromic anemia. Other choices such as Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia (choice A), folic acid deficiency anemia (choice B), sickle cell anemia (choice D), and anemia of chronic disease (choice D) typically present as normocytic or macrocytic anemias.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action to prevent rheumatic fever is to refer children with sore throats for throat cultures (Choice C). Rheumatic fever is caused by an abnormal immune response to a bacterial infection with group A Streptococcus. By promptly diagnosing and treating streptococcal infections with antibiotics, the risk of developing rheumatic fever can be minimized. Conducting throat cultures for children with sore throats helps identify streptococcal infections and allows for appropriate antibiotic treatment, thereby preventing the progression to rheumatic fever. Encouraging routine hypertensive screenings (Choice A) and conducting routine occult blood screenings (Choice B) are not directly related to the prevention of rheumatic fever. Recommending salicylates instead for minor discomforts (Choice D) is contraindicated in cases of suspected or confirmed streptococcal infections due to the risk of worsening symptoms and potentially triggering rheumatic fever.