You are performing a routine check-up on an 81-year-old retired cotton farmer in the vascular surgery clinic. You note that he has a history of chronic arterial insufficiency. Which of the following physical examination findings in the lower extremities would be expected with this disease?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Chronic arterial insufficiency results in poor blood flow to the lower extremities. This leads to inadequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the tissues, causing damage and changes in the skin. A common physical examination finding in chronic arterial insufficiency is thin, shiny, atrophic skin. The skin may appear pale, cool to the touch, and may have decreased hair growth. It is important to note that other findings such as diminished or absent pulses and reduced temperatures may also be present with chronic arterial insufficiency.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Inspiratory splitting of S occurs due to the normal physiological delay in the closure of the aortic and pulmonic valves during inspiration. During inspiration, the negative intrathoracic pressure leads to increased venous return to the right side of the heart, causing a slight delay in the closure of the pulmonic valve. This results in the aortic valve closing first, followed by the closure of the pulmonic valve, leading to the splitting of S during inspiration.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presence of new flat red and purple lesions that are tender on the ulnar aspect of Ms. Whiting's forearms raises concerns and warrants further investigation. Since she did not mention them, it is important to ask how she acquired them to gather more information. This will help determine the cause of the lesions and provide clues to potential underlying conditions or recent activities that could be related to their development. It is important not to dismiss these lesions as old without proper evaluation, as they could indicate a recent injury, infection, or other medical issues that may require attention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Family history of osteoporosis is a significant risk factor, as genetics play a key role in determining a person's risk for developing osteoporosis. Having a close relative, such as an aunt, with severe osteoporosis increases this woman's risk as there is a strong genetic component to the disease. Factors such as obesity (choice A), late menopause (choice B), and delayed menarche (choice D) do not directly increase the risk of osteoporosis, unlike having a familial history of the condition.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The patient in this scenario presents with symptoms suggestive of an anorectal disorder. The presence of an irregular, firm mass on the posterior side of the rectum, along with frank blood seen on the glove after a digital rectal examination, raises suspicion for an underlying anorectal cancer. Anorectal cancer can present with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, palpable masses, and weight loss. In this case, the findings of an irregular mass and rectal bleeding are concerning for a malignant process such as anorectal cancer. Further evaluation with imaging studies and biopsy would be warranted for confirmation and to guide appropriate management.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The clinical presentation described in the question is consistent with mitral valve prolapse (MVP). MVP is characterized by the improper closure of the mitral valve leaflets during systole, leading to the prolapse of one or both leaflets into the left atrium. The classic auscultatory findings in MVP include a mid-systolic click followed by a late systolic murmur. The click is the result of sudden tensing of the chordae tendineae as the mitral valve prolapses, and the murmur occurs as blood leaks backward (mitral regurgitation) due to imperfect valve closure.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The next step would be to discuss the physical therapy plan with Mr. Larson. It is important to communicate openly with him, explain the recommendation for physical therapy, and ensure that he understands and agrees with the plan before proceeding further. This allows for any questions or concerns to be addressed, and ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to his needs and preferences. By discussing the plan with Mr. Larson first, you can also provide him with the opportunity to ask any questions and actively involve him in his own care, which can lead to better compliance and outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most likely explanation for Mrs. Lenzo noticing a 4-pound weight gain over just 2 days is fluctuations in body fluid. Our body weight can fluctuate throughout the day due to factors such as hydration levels, sodium intake, and hormonal changes. It is not physically possible to gain 4 pounds of actual body mass (e.g., fat or muscle) in such a short period of time by overeating or wearing different clothing. Additionally, if Mrs. Lenzo's scale is very accurate as mentioned, it is less likely that the weight gain is due to instrument inaccuracy. Therefore, the most plausible reason for the sudden weight gain is fluctuations in body fluid retention.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Based on the description provided, the skin lesions are most consistent with seborrheic keratosis. Seborrheic keratoses are common non-cancerous (benign) growths of the skin that often appear as brown, black, or light tan growths with a waxy, stuck-on appearance. They can vary in color and may be round or oval, with a well-defined border. Seborrheic keratoses are typically asymptomatic and can be found on various parts of the body including the face, arms, and legs. The dry, hard scale covering the lesion is typical for seborrheic keratoses.