Roger presents with blurred and double vision, muscle weakness, and intolerance of temperature changes. In order to rule out multiple sclerosis, the physician will likely order

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) CT scan showing plaque formation. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder characterized by the formation of plaques in the central nervous system. These plaques are areas of inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers. By ordering a CT scan to visualize these plaques, the physician can assess for the presence of characteristic lesions indicative of MS. Option A) CBC showing a very low WBC count is incorrect because MS does not typically cause a very low white blood cell count. Option B) Endocrine function study showing a low growth hormone and high T3 and T4 is incorrect as it pertains to hormonal imbalances, not MS. Option D) Fasting glucose test showing a result over 300 mg/dL is incorrect as it would indicate uncontrolled diabetes, not MS. In an educational context, understanding the diagnostic process for MS is crucial for healthcare professionals. Ordering appropriate diagnostic tests based on clinical presentation is essential for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention. Knowledge of MS symptoms and diagnostic criteria enables healthcare providers to effectively differentiate MS from other conditions with similar presentations, leading to improved patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Carpal tunnel syndrome. Joan, as a data-entry specialist who types extensively, is at an increased risk for carpal tunnel syndrome due to the repetitive and prolonged use of her hands and wrists. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. Option A) Osteomyelitis is incorrect because it is a bone infection usually caused by bacteria, and it is not directly related to Joan's repetitive typing tasks. Option B) Osteoporosis is incorrect as it is a condition characterized by weakening bones, typically due to loss of bone density, which is not directly associated with the repetitive hand movements Joan performs. Option C) Fracture of the overused area is incorrect in this case because although repetitive stress can lead to overuse injuries like stress fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome is a more common risk for individuals engaging in prolonged typing activities. Educationally, it is crucial to recognize the occupational hazards associated with certain professions, like the increased risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders for individuals who perform repetitive tasks. Educating individuals like Joan about proper ergonomic practices, taking breaks, and performing hand/wrist exercises can help prevent conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and promote overall workplace health and safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Elevated WBC and elevated temperature. When a patient experiences increased pain at the surgical site after a few days, along with redness or inflammation, it is indicative of a possible infection. Elevated white blood cell count (WBC) and temperature are classic signs of an inflammatory response to an infection. Option A) Elevated RBC and elevated respiratory rate are not typically associated with wound infection. Elevated red blood cell count is more commonly seen in conditions like dehydration or chronic hypoxia, and an elevated respiratory rate may indicate other issues such as respiratory distress. Option C) Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and decreased pulse are not specific indicators of infection at a wound site. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a non-specific marker of inflammation and decreased pulse is not directly correlated with wound infection. Option D) Decreased platelets and decreased blood pressure are not typical signs of a wound infection. Decreased platelets are more related to bleeding disorders, and decreased blood pressure could indicate other systemic issues rather than a localized wound infection. Educationally, it is important for healthcare providers to recognize the signs and symptoms of wound infections post-surgery to ensure timely intervention and prevent complications. Understanding the specific indicators of infection can help in prompt diagnosis and appropriate management of patients undergoing surgical procedures.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Helical CT scan. A pulmonary embolism is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs, causing sudden difficulty breathing, tachypnea, tachycardia, and chest pain. A helical CT scan is the preferred diagnostic test for detecting pulmonary embolism, as it can visualize blood flow in the lungs and identify any blockages. Option A) EKG is not the most appropriate test for diagnosing a pulmonary embolism. While an EKG can show abnormalities in heart rhythm or function, it is not specific to pulmonary embolism diagnosis. Option C) ECC (Emergency Cardiac Care) is also not the most suitable test for diagnosing a pulmonary embolism. ECC protocols focus on providing immediate care in cardiac emergencies, not on diagnosing pulmonary embolism. Option D) Vital capacity is a measure of the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after a maximum inhalation. While this test can provide information about lung function, it is not the primary test used to diagnose pulmonary embolism. Educationally, understanding the appropriate diagnostic tests for different conditions is crucial for healthcare professionals. In this case, recognizing the role of a helical CT scan in diagnosing pulmonary embolism can help ensure prompt and accurate treatment for patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of this life-threatening condition.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of preventing pressure ulcers, the correct answer is D) Avoiding pressure on the heels of a bedbound patient. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, occur due to prolonged pressure on a specific area of the body, reducing blood flow and causing tissue damage. By avoiding pressure on the heels of a bedbound patient, healthcare providers can help prevent the development of pressure ulcers in this vulnerable area. Option A) Not disturbing the patient is incorrect because while minimizing disturbance can be beneficial for patient comfort, it does not directly address the physical cause of pressure ulcers. Option B) Changing the position of a bedbound patient every 4 hours is a good practice to prevent pressure ulcers, but it alone may not be sufficient. Specific attention to high-pressure areas like the heels is crucial. Option C) Vigorously rubbing the skin with alcohol is harmful and could exacerbate the risk of pressure ulcers by causing skin irritation and damage, making this option incorrect. In an educational context, understanding the importance of pressure ulcer prevention is crucial for healthcare professionals caring for bedbound patients. Teaching proper positioning techniques, use of support surfaces, and regular skin assessments can help prevent these painful and potentially serious wounds. Emphasizing the significance of offloading pressure from vulnerable areas like the heels can significantly reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers and improve patient outcomes.