a 58 year old woman comes to the clinic for evaluation of a sharp intermittent severe stabbing facial pain that she describes as like an electric shoc

ATI RN

Pathophysiology Final Exam

1. A 58-year-old woman comes to the clinic for evaluation of a sharp, intermittent, severe, stabbing facial pain that she describes as 'like an electric shock.' The pain occurs only on one side of her face; it seems to be triggered when she chews, brushes her teeth, or sometimes when she merely touches her face. There is no numbness associated with the pain. What is most likely causing her pain?

A. Temporal arteritis
B. Trigeminal neuralgia
C. Migraine headache
D. Cluster headache

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Trigeminal neuralgia. Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by severe, stabbing pain in the distribution of the trigeminal nerve, often triggered by light touch, chewing, or brushing teeth. In this case, the patient's symptoms of sharp, intermittent facial pain triggered by activities like chewing and touching her face are classic for trigeminal neuralgia. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Temporal arteritis typically presents with unilateral headache, jaw claudication, and visual symptoms. Migraine headaches are usually throbbing in nature and often associated with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Cluster headaches are characterized by severe unilateral pain around the eye with autonomic symptoms like lacrimation and nasal congestion.

2. What function does aldosterone serve in the body?

A. Aldosterone causes a release of sodium from the body, decreases fluid volume, and decreases blood pressure
B. Aldosterone causes a retention of sodium in the body, increases fluid volume, and increases blood pressure
C. Aldosterone causes a release of sodium from the body, increases fluid volume, and decreases blood pressure
D. Aldosterone enhances intracellular sodium production and lowers blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Aldosterone functions by causing the retention of sodium in the body, which results in an increase in fluid volume and blood pressure. Choice A is incorrect because aldosterone actually promotes sodium retention rather than release. Choice C is incorrect as it states that aldosterone decreases fluid volume, which is not accurate. Choice D is incorrect because aldosterone does not enhance intracellular sodium production; instead, it primarily acts on sodium reabsorption in the kidneys.

3. What are the major mechanisms of spinal cord injuries?

A. Hypoextension, expansion, hyperflexion
B. Hyperflexion, expansion, hypometabolism
C. Hypermetabolism, compression, hyperextension
D. Hyperextension, hyperflexion, compression

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Spinal cord injuries commonly occur due to hyperextension, hyperflexion, and compression. Hyperextension and hyperflexion refer to the excessive bending or stretching of the spinal cord, while compression is the exertion of pressure on the spinal cord. These mechanisms can lead to damage such as contusions, lacerations, and compression of the spinal cord. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately represent the major mechanisms of spinal cord injuries.

4. Which of the following outcome criteria is appropriate for a client with dementia?

A. The client will return to an established schedule for activities of daily living.
B. The client will learn new coping mechanisms to handle anxiety.
C. The client will seek out resources in the community for support.
D. The client will follow an established schedule for activities of daily living.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. For clients with dementia, following an established schedule for activities of daily living is appropriate as it helps maintain routine and structure, which can be beneficial for their condition. Choice A has been rephrased to align better with the context of dementia care. Choice A is incorrect as expecting a return to a previous level of self-functioning may not be realistic for clients with dementia. Choice B is not the most appropriate outcome criteria as handling anxiety, while important, may not be the primary focus when working with clients with dementia. Choice C, seeking out resources in the community for support, is also important but may not be as directly related to the day-to-day care and management of activities for a client with dementia.

5. A patient is taking alendronate (Fosamax) for the treatment of osteoporosis. What instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effectiveness of the medication?

A. Take the medication with food to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
B. Take the medication in the morning with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes.
C. Take the medication before bed to ensure absorption during sleep.
D. Take the medication with milk to enhance calcium absorption.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Alendronate should be taken in the morning with a full glass of water and the patient should remain upright for at least 30 minutes. This is important to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because alendronate should not be taken with food as it can decrease its absorption. Choice C is incorrect as taking the medication before bed increases the risk of esophageal irritation and reduces absorption due to lying down. Choice D is also incorrect because taking alendronate with milk or other calcium-rich foods can decrease its absorption.