What is the primary purpose of assessing for rebound tenderness during an abdominal examination?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of assessing for rebound tenderness during an abdominal examination is to evaluate for peritoneal inflammation. Rebound tenderness indicates irritation of the peritoneum, a membrane lining the abdominal cavity. This can be a sign of serious conditions like peritonitis. Organ enlargement (Choice A) may not necessarily cause rebound tenderness. Ascites (Choice B) is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which may not directly cause rebound tenderness. Identifying abdominal masses (Choice D) is important but may not be the primary purpose of assessing for rebound tenderness.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Absent dorsalis pedis pulse. This finding is most concerning as it indicates a significant impairment in arterial blood flow to the foot, potentially leading to severe complications such as tissue necrosis or limb ischemia. Absence of the dorsalis pedis pulse suggests a severe blockage or narrowing in the arteries supplying the foot, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications. Capillary refill of 2 seconds (choice A) is within the normal range and indicates adequate peripheral circulation. Bilateral pitting edema (choice B) can be a sign of venous insufficiency but is not as urgent as an absent dorsalis pedis pulse. Warm and pink extremities (choice D) indicate good tissue perfusion and are positive findings in a vascular assessment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Osteoarthritis. In a 60-year-old woman with joint pain worsened with activity, improved with rest, decreased range of motion, and crepitus, osteoarthritis is the most likely diagnosis due to its characteristic presentation in weight-bearing joints. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage breakdown, leading to pain and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis (B) typically presents with symmetric joint involvement, morning stiffness, and systemic symptoms. Gout (C) manifests as sudden onset of severe joint pain, redness, and swelling, commonly affecting the big toe. Psoriatic arthritis (D) is associated with skin psoriasis and may involve asymmetric joint inflammation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most likely diagnosis for the 30-year-old woman with shortness of breath, dry cough, and a history of frequent sinus infections is Sarcoidosis. This is because Sarcoidosis commonly presents with respiratory symptoms such as cough and dyspnea, and can be associated with sinus involvement. Sarcoidosis is more common in younger individuals, like the patient in this case, compared to lung cancer or COPD. Pneumonia typically presents with fever and productive cough, which are not mentioned in the patient's symptoms. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is more commonly seen in older individuals with a history of smoking, which is not indicated in this case. Therefore, the most likely diagnosis is Sarcoidosis based on the patient's age, symptoms, and medical history.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cerebellar ataxia. Difficulty walking on toes is a sign of cerebellar dysfunction, affecting coordination and balance. The cerebellum plays a crucial role in coordinating voluntary movements, including maintaining balance and posture. In cerebellar ataxia, there is a lack of coordination in muscle movements, leading to difficulties in performing fine motor tasks like walking on toes. Peripheral neuropathy (B) primarily affects sensory and motor nerves in the limbs, causing tingling, numbness, and weakness, not specifically difficulty in walking on toes. Parkinson's disease (C) is characterized by tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia but typically does not present with difficulty walking on toes. Stroke (D) can cause motor deficits but typically does not manifest as isolated difficulty walking on toes.