The AGACNP is evaluating a patient who reportedly fell down a flight of steps. Her history is significant for several emergency room visits, but she denies any significant medical conditions. Some documentation in her chart indicates that she may have been subjected to physical abuse. Today she presents with a periorbital ecchymosis of the left eye and swelling in the left side of the face. Her neurologic examination is within normal limits. Which head imaging study would be most useful in assessing for findings consistent with a history of abuse?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Radiographs. Radiographs, specifically skull X-rays, are most useful in assessing for findings consistent with a history of abuse in this case. Radiographs can detect fractures, such as skull fractures or facial bone fractures, which are common in cases of physical abuse. These fractures may not always be clinically evident but can be identified on X-rays. Explanation of other choices: B: CT scan without contrast - While a CT scan can provide detailed imaging of the head, it may not be necessary in this case as the patient's neurologic examination is within normal limits. Also, radiographs are more cost-effective and can detect fractures effectively. C: MRI - MRI is not typically used as the first-line imaging modality for suspected head trauma due to its cost and time-consuming nature. Radiographs are more appropriate for initial evaluation. D: PET scan - PET scans are used to detect metabolic activity in tissues and are not typically indicated for assessing acute traumatic injuries like fractures associated with

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Splenectomy. In this case, the patient presents with signs of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) with low platelet count and bleeding time prolongation. Splenectomy is the definitive treatment for ITP as the spleen is the site of platelet destruction. Avoiding elective surgery and medications (choice A) may be necessary to prevent bleeding complications but do not address the underlying issue. Prednisone (choice B) is used for acute treatment but not for long-term management. Monoclonal antibody therapy (choice C) is an option for refractory cases but not first-line therapy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Marked limitation of physical activity. In cardiac disease grading, grade III signifies marked limitation of physical activity. This indicates that the patient experiences symptoms with less than ordinary physical activity, such as shortness of breath or chest pain. This grade reflects significant impairment in daily activities due to cardiac issues. A: Patient is comfortable even at rest - This describes grade I, where patients are comfortable at rest. B: Patient is asymptomatic initially - This describes pre-symptomatic stages before any limitations in physical activity. D: Absolute limitation of physical activity - This is more severe and indicative of grade IV, where any physical activity causes discomfort or symptoms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Escherichia coli. During puerperium, the most common causative organism of urinary tract infection is E. coli. This is because E. coli is a normal flora in the gastrointestinal tract and can ascend to the urinary tract due to factors like hormonal changes, reduced bladder tone, and trauma during delivery. Staphylococcus pyogenes (Choice A), Anaerobic streptococci (Choice B), and Clostridium welchii (Choice C) are not typically associated with urinary tract infections during puerperium. Staphylococcus pyogenes is more commonly known for causing skin infections, Anaerobic streptococci are not commonly implicated in urinary tract infections, and Clostridium welchii is associated with gas gangrene, not urinary tract infections.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ventral displacement. In ventral displacement hypospadias, the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis, making it necessary to defer circumcision to preserve the prepuce for later surgical repair. Preserving the prepuce in this case is important for reconstructive surgery to correct the hypospadias. Choices B, C, and D do not require deferring circumcision as the location of the urethral opening does not impact the need for prepuce preservation for future surgical repair.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Portal hypertension. In myelodysplastic syndromes, splenectomy is indicated primarily for portal hypertension due to extramedullary hematopoiesjson in the spleen, leading to increased blood flow and pressure in the portal vein. This can alleviate symptoms such as ascites and variceal bleeding. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as major hemolysis, massive splenomegaly, and sustained leukocyte elevation are not primary indications for splenectomy in myelodysplastic syndromes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Gastric retention. Mrs. Coates' symptoms of persistent and progressive discomfort are not likely due to gastric retention because she underwent a duodenal resection for a bleeding ulcer, which would bypass the stomach. Therefore, gastric retention is not a possible cause. A: Colic due to return of peristalsis is a possible cause as peristalsis returning after surgery can cause discomfort. B: Leakage from the duodenal stump is a possible cause as it can lead to abdominal discomfort postoperatively. D: Hemorrhage is a possible cause given her history of bleeding ulcer and surgery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Face presentation. Vaginal delivery is possible in face presentation as the fetus is in a position where the face is presenting first, allowing for delivery. In this presentation, the chin is usually tucked onto the chest, making it easier for the baby's head to pass through the birth canal. A: Brow presentation is incorrect because it indicates the baby's head is extended slightly, making it more difficult for vaginal delivery. C: Shoulder presentation is incorrect as it can lead to a shoulder dystocia, making vaginal delivery dangerous and difficult. D: Unstable lie is incorrect because it refers to the baby being in a transverse position, making vaginal delivery impossible without intervention.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ammonia. Ammonia is a primary chemical mediator of hepatic encephalopathy. In patients with chronic liver disease, the liver's ability to detoxify ammonia is compromised, leading to its accumulation in the bloodstream and subsequent neurotoxic effects causing encephalopathy. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), false neurotransmitters, and serotonin are all implicated in the pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy. GABA is involved in neurotransmission, false neurotransmitters are substances that disrupt normal neurotransmission, and serotonin levels are altered in hepatic encephalopathy.