An obese 56-year-old married man complains of daytime sleepiness, and his wife states that he snores, snorts, and gasps during nighttime sleep. What polysomnographic finding is needed to confirm the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea?
Polysomnographic evidence of at least 5 apnea or hypopnea episodes per hour of sleep
Polysomnographic evidence of at least 15 episodes per hour of sleep
No polysomnography is necessary
Polysomnographic evidence of resolution of apneas/hypopneas with application of continuous positive airway pressure
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: A diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is confirmed when polysomnography reveals at least 5 episodes of apnea or hypopnea per hour of sleep in the presence of symptoms such as snoring, gasping, or daytime sleepiness. This threshold is consistent with clinical guidelines and reflects mild OSA.
Choice B reason: While 15 or more episodes per hour indicate moderate to severe OSA, the minimum diagnostic threshold is 5 events per hour with associated symptoms. Therefore, this choice is overly restrictive and not the best initial diagnostic criterion.
Choice C reason: Polysomnography is the gold standard for diagnosing OSA. Clinical symptoms alone are insufficient for a definitive diagnosis, especially when treatment decisions depend on severity classification.
Choice D reason: Resolution of apneas/hypopneas with CPAP confirms treatment efficacy but does not establish the initial diagnosis. This finding is relevant after diagnosis and during titration studies, not for confirming OSA.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4) used to treat hypothyroidism. Administering this to a patient with signs of hyperthyroidism, such as exophthalmos, tremors, and hypertension, would worsen the condition.
Choice B reason: Liotrix is a combination of synthetic T4 and T3 hormones, also used to treat hypothyroidism. Like levothyroxine, it is contraindicated in hyperthyroid states and would exacerbate the symptoms.
Choice C reason: Liothyronine is synthetic T3 and is used in hypothyroidism or myxedema coma. It is not appropriate for treating hyperthyroidism and would intensify the patient’s symptoms.
Choice D reason: Propylthiouracil (PTU) is an antithyroid medication that inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and peripheral conversion of T4 to T3. It is indicated in hyperthyroidism and Graves’ disease, especially when symptoms include goiter and exophthalmos. PTU helps reduce hormone levels and alleviate symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: PCOS is a multifactorial endocrine disorder characterized by altered LH secretion, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism. Insulin resistance contributes to increased androgen production by the ovaries, and elevated LH levels stimulate theca cells, further exacerbating androgen excess. These mechanisms disrupt follicular development and ovulation.
Choice B reason: While thyroid dysfunction and hyperprolactinemia can cause menstrual irregularities, they are not part of the pathogenesis of PCOS. Nonclassical congenital adrenal hyperplasia may mimic PCOS but is a distinct condition.
Choice C reason: Hypothalamic amenorrhea and primary ovarian insufficiency are causes of secondary amenorrhea but are unrelated to the pathogenesis of PCOS. They involve different hormonal profiles and etiologies.
Choice D reason: An androgen-secreting tumor can cause virilization and menstrual disturbances but is a rare and distinct cause of hyperandrogenism. It is not part of the typical pathophysiology of PCOS.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.