Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The independent variable in an experiment is the variable that is manipulated or determined by the researcher. In this hypothesis, the nurse is suggesting that the age of the patient (elderly vs. younger) influences the aggressiveness of treatment received. Therefore, the age of the patient is the independent variable in this scenario. The dependent variable would be the degree of treatment received, as it is expected to be influenced by the independent variable, which is the age of the patient.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The principle of beneficence emphasizes the duty to do good and act in the best interest of others. By ensuring that all necessary supplies and medicines are available for the care of the community, Nurse Erica is practicing beneficence. She is fulfilling her obligation to promote the health and well-being of the community members by providing them with the resources they need for their care. This demonstrates her commitment to doing good and acting in a way that benefits those under her care, which aligns with the principle of beneficence in nursing practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A family history of breast cancer is a known risk factor for the development of ovarian cancer. Individuals with a close relative (such as a mother, sister, or daughter) who has had breast cancer have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. This increased risk is due to shared genetic factors that can predispose individuals to both breast and ovarian cancers. Therefore, having a family history of breast cancer is an important risk factor to consider in the assessment of ovarian cancer risk.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: To keep abreast with the latest trends in peri-operative nursing, Merle should employ a combination of attending training and seminars, performing researches, and pursuing graduate studies. Attending training and seminars will expose Merle to new information, techniques, and best practices in peri-operative nursing. Performing researches will help Merle stay updated with current developments and evidence-based practices in the field. Pursuing graduate studies will provide Merle with advanced knowledge and skills, allowing for a deeper understanding of peri-operative nursing concepts and practices. By incorporating all of these strategies, Merle can ensure that he remains knowledgeable and competent in his role as a peri-operative nurse.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The clinical presentation of fever, malaise, maculopapular rash starting on the face and spreading to the trunk and extremities, along with leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, is highly suggestive of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) caused by Rickettsia rickettsii. RMSF is a tick-borne illness transmitted by the American dog tick, Rocky Mountain wood tick, and brown dog tick. The constellation of symptoms described aligns well with the typical presentation of RMSF. Borrelia burgdorferi causes Lyme disease, which presents with erythema migrans but does not typically cause leukopenia or thrombocytopenia. Plasmodium falciparum is the causative agent of severe malaria and would present with symptoms such as cyclic fevers, anemia, and jaundice but not the described rash distribution.