You are working in a urologist's office. When you return from lunch, you have the following phone messages. Which one requires immediate attention?
Mr. Smith, who has multiple sclerosis, has been managing his urinary retention with intermittent catheterization for several years. He has been depressed lately after losing his job and admitted at his last visit to having thoughts of self-harm. He left a message saying he had chills, fatigue, and an oral temperature of 103°F.
Ms. Jones, who has had urinary frequency and urgency for many years, started on Ditropan at her last office visit. She left a message saying her urinary frequency has improved, but her mouth was very dry.
Mr. Jones, a new patient expressing concerns over embarrassing symptoms of incontinence.
Ms. Smith, who is 18 years old, called to cancel her afternoon appointment for her initial incontinence evaluation. Her message said her symptoms weren't that bad and she would call to reschedule.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Mr. Smith requires immediate attention due to his multiple sclerosis and severe symptoms of chills, fatigue, and a high fever (103°F). These symptoms could indicate a severe infection such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or even sepsis, which can be life-threatening, especially in individuals with a compromised immune system or chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Choice B reason: Ms. Jones's dry mouth is a common side effect of Ditropan (oxybutynin), which is used to treat urinary frequency and urgency. While it is uncomfortable, it is not an emergency and can be addressed at the next visit or over a phone consultation.
Choice C reason: Mr. Jones, being a new patient with incontinence concerns, does not present an immediate emergency. This issue, while significant for his quality of life, can be managed through a scheduled appointment.
Choice D reason: Ms. Smith's decision to cancel her appointment due to her symptoms not being severe does not require immediate attention. She can be rescheduled for a later date without risk to her health.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: An increased prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level is primarily indicative of prostatic conditions, including prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis. It is an important marker used in the screening and monitoring of prostate cancer.
Choice B reason: Colon cancer does not typically result in elevated PSA levels. Instead, colon cancer is often associated with markers like carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). PSA is specific to prostate tissue, and its elevation is not related to colon cancer.
Choice C reason: Liver cancer is not associated with increased PSA levels. Liver function tests, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and imaging studies are more relevant in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver cancer. PSA levels do not provide information about liver cancer.
Choice D reason: Breast cancer does not affect PSA levels. Breast cancer markers include CA 15-3, CA 27.29, and others specific to breast tissue. PSA is a prostate-specific marker and is not used in the context of breast cancer diagnosis or monitoring.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hypolipidemia, or low levels of lipids in the blood, is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis. Hyperlipidemia (high levels of lipids) is a more relevant factor.
Choice B reason: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that can develop as a result of chronic pancreatitis, but it is not a direct risk factor for acute pancreatitis.
Choice C reason: Gallstones are a common cause of acute pancreatitis. They can block the pancreatic duct, leading to inflammation and pain.
Choice D reason: COPD, a chronic lung disease, is not associated with acute pancreatitis and does not increase the risk for this condition.
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.