ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Questions
1. A 45-year-old woman presents with fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. Her thyroid function tests reveal low T3 and T4 levels and elevated TSH levels. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Hyperthyroidism
- B. Hypothyroidism
- C. Euthyroid sick syndrome
- D. Subclinical hyperthyroidism
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The scenario describes a 45-year-old woman with fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, low T3 and T4 levels, and elevated TSH levels, which are indicative of hypothyroidism. In hypothyroidism, there is decreased production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) leading to elevated TSH levels as the pituitary gland tries to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more hormones. Therefore, the correct answer is hypothyroidism (Choice B). Choice A, Hyperthyroidism, is incorrect as the patient's symptoms and thyroid function tests point towards decreased thyroid hormone levels, which is characteristic of hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. Choice C, Euthyroid sick syndrome, is incorrect because this condition typically presents with normal to low T3 and T4 levels in the setting of non-thyroid illness, unlike the elevated TSH levels observed in this case. Choice D, Subclinical hyperthyroidism, is also incorrect as the patient has low T3 and T4 levels, which is not consistent with hyperthyroidism, whether clinical or subclinical.
2. A patient is receiving oral nystatin suspension for a fungal infection of the mouth. Which of the following adverse effects is most likely to be experienced with this form of nystatin?
- A. Local irritation
- B. Burning
- C. Nausea
- D. Urinary urgency
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Local irritation. When using oral nystatin suspension for a fungal infection of the mouth, local irritation is the most likely adverse effect that a patient may experience. Nystatin is generally well-tolerated, but some patients may develop local irritation, such as mouth or throat irritation. Choices B, C, and D are less likely adverse effects of oral nystatin suspension. Burning, nausea, and urinary urgency are not commonly associated with nystatin use for a fungal infection of the mouth.
3. An older adult patient has just sheared the skin on her elbow while attempting to boost herself up in bed, an event that has precipitated acute inflammation in the region surrounding the wound. Which of the following events will occur during the vascular stage of the patient's inflammation?
- A. Outpouring of exudate into interstitial spaces
- B. Chemotaxis
- C. Accumulation of leukocytes along epithelium
- D. Phagocytosis of cellular debris
Correct answer: A
Rationale: During the vascular stage of inflammation, there is an outpouring of exudate into the interstitial spaces, leading to swelling and edema. Choice B, chemotaxis, occurs during the cellular stage of inflammation, where leukocytes move to the site of injury in response to chemical signals. Choice C, accumulation of leukocytes along the epithelium, is not a typical event during the vascular stage. Phagocytosis of cellular debris, as in choice D, mainly occurs during the resolution stage of inflammation.
4. Which of the following are manifestations of Cushing syndrome?
- A. Truncal obesity with thin extremities.
- B. Enlargement of face, hands, and feet.
- C. Cachexia.
- D. Thick scalp hair.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Truncal obesity with thin extremities is a classic manifestation of Cushing syndrome due to the redistribution of fat. Enlargement of face, hands, and feet is seen in conditions like acromegaly, not Cushing syndrome. Cachexia is a state of severe weight loss and muscle wasting, typically seen in conditions like cancer or advanced infections. Thick scalp hair is not typically associated with Cushing syndrome.
5. A female patient is concerned about the side effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What common side effect should the nurse explain?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Hair loss
- C. Increased libido
- D. Decreased energy levels
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Weight gain. Weight gain is a common side effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) due to hormonal changes. Patients should be informed about this possibility as part of their treatment plan. Hair loss (Choice B) is not a common side effect of HRT. Increased libido (Choice C) and decreased energy levels (Choice D) are not typically associated with HRT side effects. Therefore, the nurse should focus on discussing weight gain with the patient.
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