Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The diagnosis of contact latex allergy is primarily based on the patient's history of exposure to latex-containing products and the development of symptoms upon contact with latex. To confirm the diagnosis, skin patch testing is performed. Skin patch testing exposes the skin to small amounts of latex allergens to observe for any localized allergic reaction, such as redness, swelling, or itchiness. This test helps determine if the individual has developed a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to latex. Latex-specific IgE testing (choice A) and finding IgE in serum (choice B) are methods used in diagnosing immediate-type latex allergy but are not sufficient for confirming contact latex allergy specifically. ELISA (choice D) is a type of laboratory technique used for various purposes, including measuring the levels of specific substances in the blood, but it is not typically used as a diagnostic tool for contact latex allergy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Maintaining patient confidentiality is a foundational principle in healthcare ethics. Nurses are obligated to keep all information about patients confidential, which means not disclosing any patient-related information to unauthorized individuals. This includes refraining from discussing patient cases with others who are not directly involved in the care of the patient. Sharing patient information without consent can be a breach of trust and privacy, which can have legal and ethical implications. Therefore, in order to uphold the principle of confidentiality, nurses must keep all matters about the patient as a secret.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Mastitis is typically caused by bacterial infection, with predisposing factors including milk stasis (I) and nipple trauma (II). Milk stasis occurs when milk is not effectively removed from the breast, leading to a build-up that can block ducts and predispose to infection. Nipple trauma, such as cracks or damage, can provide entry points for bacteria to infect the breast tissue. Factors like using alcohol in cleaning nipples (III) and the baby's sitting position (IV) are not directly associated with the development of mastitis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation described, involving multiple grouped vesicles on an erythematous base in the genital area, is classic for herpes simplex genitalis. This condition is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and is characterized by recurrent outbreaks of painful vesicles in the genital or perianal area. The history of similar lesions occurring during periods of stress is also suggestive of herpes simplex virus reactivation. Genital warts (condyloma acuminata) typically present as painless, fleshy growths in the genital area caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Syphilis manifests as a painless ulcer known as a chancre, which is not described in the presentation. Molluscum contagiosum presents with pearly, dome-shaped papules with central umbilication, rather than vesicles.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The cough of a patient with lung cancer typically starts off as dry and persistent. This is because lung cancer can irritate the airways, leading to a persistent dry cough as an early symptom. As the cancer progresses, the cough may become more productive with blood-tinged or dark yellow sputum. However, in the early stages, the cough is often dry and persistent, which can be a warning sign for healthcare providers to further investigate potential underlying issues such as lung cancer.