Patient Data shows that on Day 1, there were no active processes.
On Day 2, there were small bilateral lower lobes pulmonary infiltrates with the right lower lobe showing increased involvement compared to the left side.
What is the likely diagnosis?
Pneumonia
Tuberculosis
Bronchitis
Pulmonary Embolism
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Pneumonia is the most likely diagnosis given the rapid development of pulmonary infiltrates within a 24-hour period. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It typically presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. The presence of pulmonary infiltrates on imaging studies, such as a chest X-ray, is a key diagnostic feature of pneumonia.
The distribution of the infiltrates, involving the lower lobes with a predominance on the right side, is also consistent with pneumonia. This is because the lower lobes are more susceptible to pneumonia due to their anatomy and gravity.
The absence of active processes on Day 1 makes other diagnoses less likely. For example, tuberculosis typically develops more slowly over weeks or months, and bronchitis usually does not cause pulmonary infiltrates.
Pulmonary embolism can cause pulmonary infiltrates, but it would typically be associated with other symptoms such as sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain, and tachycardia.
Choice B rationale:
Tuberculosis is a chronic infection that typically develops slowly over weeks or months. It is less likely to cause rapid development of pulmonary infiltrates as seen in this case.
Tuberculosis often involves the upper lobes of the lungs, and it may be associated with other symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss.
Choice C rationale:
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, the large airways that carry air to the lungs. It typically causes a cough, but it does not usually cause pulmonary infiltrates.
Bronchitis is often caused by a virus, and it usually resolves on its own within a few weeks.
Choice D rationale:
Pulmonary embolism is a blockage of a pulmonary artery, one of the blood vessels that carries blood to the lungs. It can cause pulmonary infiltrates, but it would typically be associated with other symptoms such as sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain, and tachycardia.
Pulmonary embolism is often caused by a blood clot that travels from a vein in the leg to the lungs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Colloidal oatmeal-based lotions can be soothing and moisturizing for dry, itchy skin, but they are not effective in treating the inflammation and scaling associated with psoriasis.
They do not address the underlying hyperproliferation of skin cells that is characteristic of psoriasis.
While they may provide temporary relief of symptoms, they are not a long-term solution for managing the condition.
Choice B rationale:
Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment for psoriasis.
They work by reducing inflammation, slowing the growth of skin cells, and easing itching and scaling. They come in a variety of strengths and formulations, including creams, ointments, gels, and foams.
The type of corticosteroid and the strength of the medication will depend on the severity of the psoriasis and the location of the lesions.
It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions for use carefully, as overuse of topical corticosteroids can lead to side effects such as thinning of the skin and rebound flares.
Choice C rationale:
Topical analgesics, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, can be used to temporarily relieve pain and itching associated with psoriasis.
However, they do not address the underlying inflammation and scaling, and they should not be used as a primary treatment for the condition.
They may be used as adjunctive therapy in conjunction with topical corticosteroids or other psoriasis medications.
Choice D rationale:
Topical antifungal medications are used to treat fungal infections of the skin, such as athlete's foot or ringworm. They are not effective in treating psoriasis, which is an autoimmune condition rather than a fungal infection.
Using a topical antifungal medication for psoriasis could potentially worsen the condition or lead to other skin problems.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, C, and D.
Choice A rationale:
The patient’s oxygen saturation is at 94%, which is just below the normal range of 95-100% for healthy adults breathing room air. Administering oxygen 2 to 4 liters to maintain oxygen saturation at or above 95% is a standard intervention to ensure adequate oxygenation.
Choice B rationale:
A stat ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scan is typically ordered for suspected pulmonary embolism, which is not indicated by the patient’s current data. The patient’s symptoms do not specifically suggest a V/Q mismatch that would necessitate this diagnostic test.
Choice C rationale:
A chest x-ray is a common diagnostic tool for evaluating the lungs and heart, especially when a patient presents with symptoms that may indicate respiratory or cardiac issues. Given the patient’s temperature and heart rate, which are slightly elevated, a chest x-ray can help identify any potential underlying conditions.
Choice D rationale:
Ordering a CBC, BMP, and blood cultures can help identify the cause of the patient’s fever and tachycardia. These tests provide valuable information about the patient’s immune response, electrolyte balance, kidney function, and whether there is a bacterial infection.
Choice E rationale:
While sending sputum for culture and sensitivity could be helpful if a respiratory infection is suspected, the patient’s data does not strongly indicate a respiratory infection as the primary issue. Therefore, this test may not be the most immediate need.
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