A patient has been diagnosed with a 4cm abdominal aortic aneurysm. Which of the following conditions would indicate surgical intervention may be necessary?
Patient is male and is 28 years old
Patient has Marfan's syndrome
Patient has hypertension and is prescribed a beta-adrenergic blocking agent
Patient expresses concern about dying
The Correct Answer is B
A. A 4 cm aneurysm in a young patient, especially one as young as 28 years old, would typically be monitored more closely rather than immediately undergoing surgery. Surgical intervention is more commonly considered for larger aneurysms or in cases where there are other risk factors or symptoms present.
B. Marfan's syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects connective tissue and is associated with a higher risk of developing aortic aneurysms, including abdominal aortic aneurysms. Patients with Marfan's syndrome are at a greater risk of aneurysm growth and rupture due to the weakened connective tissue.
C. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for the growth and rupture of an AAA. While managing hypertension with beta-blockers is important in controlling the risk, the presence of hypertension alone does not necessarily indicate that surgical intervention is immediately necessary
D. While patient concerns and anxiety about their condition are valid and important, expressing concern about dying does not directly determine the need for surgical intervention. Surgical decisions are based on objective clinical criteria, such as the size of the aneurysm, growth rate, symptoms, and overall health of the patient.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypertrophy of the right ventricle refers to the thickening of the walls of the right ventricle of the heart. Hypertrophy of the right ventricle is not a typical consequence of rheumatic fever. Instead, rheumatic fever more commonly affects the heart valves.
B. Superior vena cava syndrome occurs when there is obstruction of the superior vena cava, which is a major vein that carries blood from the head, neck, and upper body to the heart. It is not a direct consequence of rheumatic fever.
C. Valvular heart disease is a significant long-term consequence of rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can cause inflammation of the heart valves, leading to damage that may result in stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage) of the valves. The mitral and aortic valves are most commonly affected. This damage can progress over time and lead to chronic heart problems, including valvular heart disease.
D. Pulmonary hypertension refers to high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. It can be caused by various conditions, including chronic lung diseases and left heart disease. While rheumatic fever primarily affects the heart valves and can potentially lead to heart failure, it is not a direct cause of pulmonary hypertension.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Rheumatic fever is a complication that can arise from untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat). Educating community members about the importance of seeking medical treatment for strep throat is crucial because timely antibiotic treatment can prevent the development of rheumatic fever.
B. Prophylactic antibiotics are often recommended for individuals who have had rheumatic fever or have a family history of the condition to prevent recurrence. While this is important for secondary prevention in high-risk individuals, it is more of a targeted approach rather than a broad community health strategy.
C. Currently, there is no widely available vaccine specifically for streptococcal infections or rheumatic fever. Research is ongoing, but no vaccine has been proven effective and available for general use in preventing streptococcal infections.
D. Monitoring temperature during a sore throat can help identify an infection, but it does not directly address the prevention of rheumatic fever. The key issue is ensuring that sore throats are evaluated and treated appropriately to prevent complications like rheumatic fever.
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