Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Age-related hearing loss begins in the mid-40s. This is because presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, typically starts around the mid-40s due to natural aging processes affecting the inner ear. Choice B is incorrect as the progression of hearing loss can vary, being gradual for some individuals but not necessarily slow for everyone. Choice C is incorrect as high-frequency tone loss, not low-frequency, is commonly associated with aging. Choice D is incorrect as difficulty hearing consonants is more related to specific types of hearing loss, not solely age-related changes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because unequal pupillary constriction in response to light is abnormal and may indicate nerve damage or neurological issues. A: Decrease in tear production is common with age. C: Arcus senilis is a normal age-related change. D: Loss of hair at the outer line of the eyebrows is also a common age-related change.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it demonstrates cultural sensitivity and respect for the patient's comfort. Placing the nurse's thumbs on either side of the trachea and tilting the patient's head forward is a non-threatening and non-invasive approach to examining the thyroid. This position allows the nurse to assess the thyroid gland without causing discomfort or intimidation to the patient. Choice A is incorrect because having the nurse's hands placed firmly around the neck from behind may be perceived as invasive and threatening to the patient. Choice B is incorrect because having the nurse's thumbs on the patient's neck with eyes averted toward the ceiling may come across as awkward and unprofessional. Choice D is incorrect because tilting the patient's head backward can cause discomfort and may not be culturally sensitive as it can be perceived as invasive.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because intraocular pressure is primarily determined by the amount of aqueous humor produced and the resistance to its outflow at the angle of the anterior chamber. When there is an imbalance in the production and outflow of aqueous humor, it can lead to an increase in intraocular pressure, which can result in conditions like glaucoma. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not directly influence intraocular pressure. The thickness or bulging of the lens (A) is related to accommodation for near vision, the posterior chamber accommodating fluid (B) is not a primary factor in determining intraocular pressure, and the contraction of the ciliary body (C) affects the shape of the lens for focusing rather than intraocular pressure regulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: overlies the sclera. The bulbar conjunctiva is the transparent layer that covers the white part of the eye (sclera). This layer helps protect the eye and keeps it moist. It does not cover the iris and pupil (B), as that is the cornea's role. It is not visible at the inner canthus (C), which is where the lacrimal caruncle is located. Lastly, it is not a mucous membrane lining the lids (D), as that is the role of the palpebral conjunctiva. Therefore, the correct answer is A.