Nursing Elites

1. Which radioactive isotope is commonly used in medical imaging techniques such as PET scans?

• A. Uranium-235
• B. Plutonium-239
• C. Potassium-40
• D. Fluorine-18

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Fluorine-18 is the radioactive isotope commonly used in medical imaging techniques such as PET scans. It is frequently used in the form of fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) to locate areas of heightened metabolic activity in the body, such as in cancer cells. Uranium-235 and Plutonium-239 are not typically employed in medical imaging, and Potassium-40, while a naturally occurring radioactive isotope found in the human body, is not commonly used in medical imaging techniques.

2. Which of the following biological macromolecules is non-soluble, composed of hydrocarbons, and acts as an important source of energy storage for the body?

• A. carbohydrates
• B. nucleic acids
• C. lipids
• D. proteins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Lipids are non-soluble biological macromolecules composed mostly of hydrocarbons such as fatty acids. They act as an essential source of energy storage for the body, providing efficient storage of energy in the form of fats. Carbohydrates are also an energy source for the body, but lipids excel in long-term energy storage. Nucleic acids are not known for energy storage; instead, they are involved in genetic information transmission and protein synthesis. Proteins play diverse roles in the body, such as enzymatic functions, structural support, and immune response, but they are not primarily known as a source of energy storage.

3. Which of the following is an example of a nosocomial infection?

• A. The common cold contracted from a family member
• B. A urinary tract infection (UTI) acquired during a catheterization
• C. A fungal skin infection from contaminated soil
• D. Food poisoning from undercooked chicken

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A nosocomial infection, also known as a healthcare-associated infection (HAI), is an infection that is acquired in a healthcare setting. In this case, a UTI acquired during a catheterization procedure is a classic example of a nosocomial infection. Catheterization involves the insertion of a tube into the urinary tract, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary system and lead to an infection. Nosocomial infections are a significant concern in healthcare settings due to the potential for increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Let's review the other options: A) The common cold contracted from a family member - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired outside of a healthcare setting. C) A fungal skin infection from contaminated soil - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired from environmental exposure, not in a healthcare setting.

4. Endotoxins are toxic substances released by:

• A. Viruses
• B. Bacteria (gram-positive)
• C. Bacteria (gram-negative)
• D. Parasites

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Endotoxins are toxic substances that are part of the outer membrane of the cell wall of gram-negative bacteria. These toxins are released when the bacteria are destroyed or during bacterial growth. Endotoxins can cause a variety of harmful effects in the host, including fever, inflammation, and septic shock. Viruses do not produce endotoxins; they are typically associated with producing viral proteins that can be toxic to host cells. Gram-positive bacteria produce exotoxins, which are different from endotoxins found in gram-negative bacteria. Parasites, though capable of causing diseases, are not typically associated with the production of endotoxins.

5. In the context of the cardiac cycle, what does the P wave on an electrocardiogram (ECG) represent?

• A. Atrial depolarization
• B. Ventricular depolarization
• C. Atrial repolarization
• D. Ventricular repolarization

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The P wave on an electrocardiogram (ECG) represents atrial depolarization, which signifies the electrical activation of the atria as they prepare to contract. During the cardiac cycle, atrial depolarization occurs first, leading to atrial contraction. Ventricular depolarization is represented by the QRS complex, not the P wave. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the P wave specifically corresponds to atrial depolarization, not ventricular depolarization, atrial repolarization, or ventricular repolarization.

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