A patient presents with severe chest pain and shortness of breath and is diagnosed with pulmonary embolism. The embolism most likely originated from the:

Superficial veins of the arm.

Left ventricle.

Deep veins of the leg.

Systemic arteries.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: The superficial veins of the arm are not a common source of emboli that cause pulmonary embolism. While blood clots can form in the superficial veins, they are less likely to travel to the lungs compared to clots formed in the deep veins of the legs.

Choice B reason: Emboli originating from the left ventricle typically travel to systemic circulation, potentially causing strokes or other systemic embolic events, rather than pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism results from a clot traveling to the pulmonary arteries, which is more likely to originate from the venous system, specifically the deep veins.

Choice C reason: Deep veins of the leg, such as those in the calf and thigh, are the most common source of emboli that cause pulmonary embolism. Blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can form in these veins and dislodge, traveling through the venous system and the right side of the heart to the pulmonary arteries. This can result in a pulmonary embolism, causing symptoms such as severe chest pain and shortness of breath.

Choice D reason: Systemic arteries do not typically lead to pulmonary embolism, as emboli from these arteries would travel to various parts of the systemic circulation, not the pulmonary arteries. Pulmonary embolism is primarily associated with emboli originating from the venous system, particularly the deep veins of the legs.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: The levodopa/carbidopa combination is commonly used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is deficient in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease. Carbidopa helps prevent the breakdown of levodopa before it reaches the brain, increasing its effectiveness. This combination is widely recognized as an effective treatment for improving motor function in Parkinson's patients. Understanding this combination therapy indicates that the patient is aware of the primary approach to managing their condition.

Choice B reason: While some patients may begin to see improvements in their symptoms within a few days to a week of starting levodopa/carbidopa therapy, it is not guaranteed for all patients. The response to the medication can vary, and some individuals may take longer to notice significant improvements. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and understand that the treatment response can be individualized.

Choice C reason: While drug therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life in Parkinson's disease, it does not significantly slow the progression of the disease. Parkinson's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and current medications primarily aim to alleviate symptoms rather than alter the course of the disease. Thus, this statement indicates a misunderstanding of the primary purpose of the medication.

Choice D reason: The dosing of Parkinson's medications, including levodopa/carbidopa, is typically adjusted based on the patient's response and symptom control. It is not standard practice to reduce the dose after a couple of months automatically. In fact, over time, some patients may require higher doses or additional medications to maintain symptom control. Therefore, this statement reflects a misunderstanding of the typical management of Parkinson's disease.

A. Warfarin prevents platelet aggregation. B. Heparin has a longer half-life. C. Heparin has fewer adverse effects. D. The onset of warfarin is slower than heparin.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Warfarin does not primarily prevent platelet aggregation. It is an anticoagulant that inhibits the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, which are necessary for blood clot formation. Although it affects the clotting process, it does not have a direct impact on platelets.

Choice B reason: Heparin does not have a longer half-life compared to warfarin. In fact, heparin has a relatively short half-life, which allows for rapid adjustments in dosing. This characteristic makes it suitable for acute management of conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where immediate anticoagulation is necessary.

Choice C reason: Heparin does not necessarily have fewer adverse effects compared to warfarin. Both medications have potential side effects and risks. Heparin can cause bleeding, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), and other complications, while warfarin also carries a risk of bleeding and requires careful monitoring due to its interactions with foods and other medications.

Choice D reason: The onset of warfarin is slower than heparin. Heparin works rapidly to anticoagulate the blood and is often used for immediate management of conditions like DVT. Warfarin, on the other hand, takes several days to reach its full anticoagulant effect as it gradually reduces the levels of clotting factors. Therefore, patients are typically started on heparin for immediate effect and then transitioned to warfarin for long-term anticoagulation.

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A patient presents with severe chest pain and shortness of breath and is diagnosed with pulmonary embolism. The embolism most likely originated from the:

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse provides teaching for a patient who is newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the drug therapy for this disease?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nursing student who is preparing to care for a postoperative patient with deep vein thrombosis asks the nurse why the patient must take heparin rather than warfarin. Which response by the nurse is correct?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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