What lab result is most likely if a patient on spironolactone develops muscle weakness and palpitations?

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Question 1 of 5

What lab result is most likely if a patient on spironolactone develops muscle weakness and palpitations?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hyperkalemia is a known adverse effect of potassium-sparing diuretics like spironolactone.

Question 2 of 5

The blood leaves the heart to the body through the:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The aorta carries oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to the rest of the body.

Question 3 of 5

32 y/o male presents with burning sensation in chest following most large meals for 2-3 months. He denies dysphagia, weight change, or bleeding. Which of the following studies has the highest sensitivity for the initial diagnosis of GERD with typical symptoms?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: For typical GERD symptoms (heartburn after meals), an empiric trial of a PPI like omeprazole is highly sensitive and specific as a diagnostic test, with symptom resolution confirming the diagnosis. Invasive tests like pH monitoring or EGD are reserved for atypical or refractory cases.

Question 4 of 5

A 50-year-old female with a history of hypertension presents with palpitations. Her ECG shows irregularly irregular rhythm with no discernible P waves. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The absence of P waves and an irregularly irregular rhythm are hallmark features of atrial fibrillation.

Question 5 of 5

59 yo woman presents with onset of tingling in her toes. Her reflexes are depressed with downgoing toes. The finding that suggests most strongly that this is Guillain-Barré syndrome and not a spinal cord problem is:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Lack of incontinence strongly favors Guillain-Barré (peripheral neuropathy) over spinal cord lesions, which often affect bowel/bladder control.

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