To clean a wound, it is best to use

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In wound care, using saline solution to clean a wound is the best practice. Saline is an isotonic solution that is gentle on the wound, helps to maintain a moist environment which supports healing, and does not damage the healthy tissue around the wound. It also helps to remove debris and bacteria without causing further harm. Using hydrogen peroxide (Option A) is not recommended as it can be cytotoxic to the wound bed, slowing down the healing process. It can also cause irritation to the skin surrounding the wound. Tap water (Option B) may contain impurities that can introduce infection to the wound. It is not sterile like saline solution. Option D suggests not disturbing a healing wound, but proper wound care involves cleaning to prevent infection and promote healing. Neglecting to clean a wound can lead to complications such as infection and delayed healing. Educationally, it is important for healthcare professionals to understand the principles of wound care to provide optimal patient outcomes. Teaching the correct methods of wound cleaning, such as using saline solution, helps to promote evidence-based practice and improve patient care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Delirium. Delirium is characterized by sudden onset confusion, disorientation, and sometimes combative behavior in older adults like Alex. It is often triggered by underlying medical conditions, such as infections or metabolic imbalances. Option B) Psychosis is characterized by a loss of touch with reality, hallucinations, and delusions, which are not mentioned in the case of Alex. Option C) Depression typically presents with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities, which do not align with Alex's symptoms. Option D) Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent panic attacks, not confusion and disorientation. Educationally, understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial for healthcare professionals to accurately assess and provide appropriate care for patients like Alex. Recognizing delirium promptly is essential as it can indicate an underlying medical emergency requiring immediate intervention to prevent further complications. This case highlights the importance of thorough assessment and knowledge of geriatric psychiatry in medical-surgical settings.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Carpal tunnel syndrome. Joan, as a data-entry specialist who types extensively, is at an increased risk for carpal tunnel syndrome due to the repetitive and prolonged use of her hands and wrists. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. Option A) Osteomyelitis is incorrect because it is a bone infection usually caused by bacteria, and it is not directly related to Joan's repetitive typing tasks. Option B) Osteoporosis is incorrect as it is a condition characterized by weakening bones, typically due to loss of bone density, which is not directly associated with the repetitive hand movements Joan performs. Option C) Fracture of the overused area is incorrect in this case because although repetitive stress can lead to overuse injuries like stress fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome is a more common risk for individuals engaging in prolonged typing activities. Educationally, it is crucial to recognize the occupational hazards associated with certain professions, like the increased risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders for individuals who perform repetitive tasks. Educating individuals like Joan about proper ergonomic practices, taking breaks, and performing hand/wrist exercises can help prevent conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and promote overall workplace health and safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Elevated WBC and elevated temperature. When a patient experiences increased pain at the surgical site after a few days, along with redness or inflammation, it is indicative of a possible infection. Elevated white blood cell count (WBC) and temperature are classic signs of an inflammatory response to an infection. Option A) Elevated RBC and elevated respiratory rate are not typically associated with wound infection. Elevated red blood cell count is more commonly seen in conditions like dehydration or chronic hypoxia, and an elevated respiratory rate may indicate other issues such as respiratory distress. Option C) Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and decreased pulse are not specific indicators of infection at a wound site. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a non-specific marker of inflammation and decreased pulse is not directly correlated with wound infection. Option D) Decreased platelets and decreased blood pressure are not typical signs of a wound infection. Decreased platelets are more related to bleeding disorders, and decreased blood pressure could indicate other systemic issues rather than a localized wound infection. Educationally, it is important for healthcare providers to recognize the signs and symptoms of wound infections post-surgery to ensure timely intervention and prevent complications. Understanding the specific indicators of infection can help in prompt diagnosis and appropriate management of patients undergoing surgical procedures.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Helical CT scan. A pulmonary embolism is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs, causing sudden difficulty breathing, tachypnea, tachycardia, and chest pain. A helical CT scan is the preferred diagnostic test for detecting pulmonary embolism, as it can visualize blood flow in the lungs and identify any blockages. Option A) EKG is not the most appropriate test for diagnosing a pulmonary embolism. While an EKG can show abnormalities in heart rhythm or function, it is not specific to pulmonary embolism diagnosis. Option C) ECC (Emergency Cardiac Care) is also not the most suitable test for diagnosing a pulmonary embolism. ECC protocols focus on providing immediate care in cardiac emergencies, not on diagnosing pulmonary embolism. Option D) Vital capacity is a measure of the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after a maximum inhalation. While this test can provide information about lung function, it is not the primary test used to diagnose pulmonary embolism. Educationally, understanding the appropriate diagnostic tests for different conditions is crucial for healthcare professionals. In this case, recognizing the role of a helical CT scan in diagnosing pulmonary embolism can help ensure prompt and accurate treatment for patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of this life-threatening condition.