Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Myxedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism that is characterized by the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in subcutaneous and other interstitial tissues. This condition leads to puffiness, swelling, and thickening of the skin, giving it a waxy appearance. Other symptoms of myxedema include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and hair loss. It is important to recognize and treat myxedema promptly as it can lead to serious complications such as myxedema coma, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation of sudden-onset unilateral facial droop, arm weakness, and slurred speech that partially resolved within 30 minutes is more consistent with a transient ischemic attack (TIA) rather than an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. TIAs are caused by temporary decreases in blood flow to a specific area of the brain, leading to transient neurological deficits that typically last for less than 24 hours. In this case, the symptoms partially resolving suggest a temporary and reversible ischemic event, characteristic of a TIA. Ischemic strokes involve more prolonged or permanent impairment due to blockage of a blood vessel supplying the brain, while hemorrhagic strokes involve bleeding within the brain tissue or the surrounding membranes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Prostatitis is characterized by inflammation of the prostate gland, leading to symptoms such as dysuria (painful urination), urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and perineal or pelvic pain. Prostate cancer, on the other hand, is characterized by the presence of malignant cells in the prostate gland and may not present with these typical symptoms. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms but is not typically associated with inflammation. Urethritis refers to inflammation of the urethra, which is a different condition and may present with symptoms such as painful urination and discharge from the urethra.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) are prescribed to manage anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease. Monitoring the hemoglobin level closely during ESA therapy is crucial to ensure that the treatment is effective in increasing red blood cell production without causing excessive elevation. Hemoglobin levels should be checked regularly to adjust the ESA dosage accordingly and prevent risks associated with high hematocrit levels, such as increasing blood viscosity and cardiovascular events. Monitoring serum potassium, creatinine, and platelet count are important in the management of chronic kidney disease for different reasons, but for ESA therapy, monitoring hemoglobin is the most essential parameter.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When a woman in active labor demonstrates signs of cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) with the fetal head failing to descend despite strong contractions, the nursing action that should be prioritized is to prepare for immediate instrumental delivery. CPD can lead to a prolonged and difficult labor, increasing the risks for both the mother and the fetus. In cases where the fetal head is not descending adequately and the mother's contractions are strong, instrumental delivery, like forceps or vacuum extraction, may be necessary to facilitate the safe delivery of the baby. It is important to act promptly to avoid potential complications associated with prolonged labor. Other actions, such as performing a pelvic exam, changing maternal positions, or administering oxytocin, may be considered but addressing the issue of CPD efficiently through instrumental delivery should take precedence in this scenario.