A 78-year-old woman was found unconscious on the floor of her Philadelphia apartment in August. The temperature outside is 102 degrees Fahrenheit, and the relative humidity is 94%. The woman's skin is hot and dry. Which of the following conditions is she most likely suffering from?
Heat exhaustion
Heat stroke
Hypothermia
Heat cramps
Fever
The Correct Answer is B
A. Heat exhaustion: Usually presents with heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness, but not hot, dry skin or unconsciousness.
B. Heat stroke: Characterized by body temperature >104°F, hot and dry skin (due to failed thermoregulation), and altered mental status or unconsciousness.
C. Hypothermia: Occurs in cold environments, not in extreme heat and humidity.
D. Heat cramps: Painful muscle contractions without loss of consciousness or dry skin; usually milder.
E. Fever: Usually due to infection and not associated with environmental temperature or unconsciousness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Metabolic acidosis: Caused by metabolic conditions like renal failure or lactic acidosis.
B. Metabolic alkalosis: Not caused by lung pathology.
C. Respiratory alkalosis: Occurs with hyperventilation, not in emphysema.
D. Respiratory acidosis: Emphysema impairs gas exchange and reduces CO₂ exhalation, leading to CO₂ retention and respiratory acidosis.
E. Digestive alkalosis: Not a recognized acid-base disturbance.
Correct Answer is E
Explanation
A. Fluid sequestration in the upper limbs: Not typically a physiological response to cold.
B. Hypotonic hydration: Occurs when too much water dilutes body fluids, usually from overhydration, not cold exposure.
C. Hypervolemia: This is fluid overload, unlikely in cold exposure without excess intake.
D. Increased sensible water loss: Sensible water loss refers to loss via urine or sweat—sweating is reduced in cold environments.
E. Increased respiratory water loss: Cold, dry air increases insensible water loss via respiration due to humidification of inspired air.
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