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: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: CT scan without contrast. A CT scan is the most useful imaging study in assessing for findings consistent with a history of abuse in this patient. CT scan is preferred for acute trauma to the head as it provides detailed images of the brain, skull, and facial bones. It can detect acute hemorrhages, fractures, or other signs of trauma. In this case, the patient's presentation with periorbital ecchymosis and facial swelling raises suspicion for traumatic injury, which can be assessed effectively with a CT scan. Radiographs (choice A) are not as sensitive as CT scans in detecting subtle fractures or soft tissue injuries in the head and face. MRI (choice C) is not typically used in acute trauma assessment and may not provide timely information needed in this case. PET scan (choice D) is not indicated for evaluating traumatic head injuries and is more commonly used for assessing metabolic and functional activity in the body.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Autonomy and beneficence. Autonomy refers to the patient's right to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare. In this case, the patient is refusing reintubation, exercising his autonomy. However, beneficence, the duty to act in the patient's best interest, also comes into play as the patient's refusal could lead to respiratory failure and death. The conflict arises from balancing the patient's autonomy with the healthcare provider's duty to provide beneficial care. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately capture the ethical conflict present in the scenario. Veracity (A) refers to truthfulness, which is not the primary issue here. Nonmalfeasance (B) is the duty to do no harm, which is not directly relevant to the conflict between the patient's autonomy and the need for beneficial care. Justice (D) relates to fairness in resource allocation and is not the primary issue in this case.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Correct Answer: D Rationale: 1. Metformin should be held if the morning blood sugar is < 200 mg/dL to reduce the risk of lactic acidosis postoperatively. 2. Warfarin should be held 5 days before surgery to prevent excessive bleeding during the procedure. 3. Beta blocker (metoprolol) can be continued on the day of surgery to prevent rebound hypertension. 4. Vitamin E can be continued as it does not have significant interactions or adverse effects in this scenario. Summary: - Choice A is incorrect as it does not address the need to hold metformin and warfarin appropriately. - Choice B is incorrect as it discontinues medications too early and does not address metformin management. - Choice C is incorrect as it only addresses warfarin and does not consider metformin or other medications. - Choice D is the most appropriate approach as it addresses the specific considerations for each medication based on their effects and interactions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice D (Atelectasis) is correct: 1. Ascorbic acid deficiency can lead to impaired lung function, increasing the risk of atelectasis. 2. Anemia can cause decreased oxygen-carrying capacity, contributing to atelectasis. 3. Volume contraction can lead to reduced lung expansion, further predisposing to atelectasis. Summary: - Choice A (Prolonged intubation): Intubation duration is more related to respiratory complications, not directly linked to the mentioned risk factors. - Choice B (Thromboembolism): Risk factors like immobility and hypercoagulability are more relevant to thromboembolism. - Choice C (Delayed wound healing): More associated with factors like malnutrition and impaired immune function rather than the mentioned risk factors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Avoidance of elective surgery and nonessential medications. This is the initial management for a patient with thrombocytopenia and abnormal bleeding time, possibly indicating immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Avoiding surgery and medications that can worsen thrombocytopenia is crucial to prevent bleeding complications. Prednisone (B) is not the first-line treatment for ITP, especially without confirming the diagnosis. Monoclonal antibody therapy (C) such as rituximab is usually reserved for refractory cases. Splenectomy (D) is considered only if other treatments fail as a last resort.