Nursing Elites

1. A paroxysm is a sudden spasm. Another word for this might be ___________.

• A. convulsion
• B. symptom
• C. efficacy
• D. embolism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "convulsion." A paroxysm is defined as a sudden spasm or convulsion. The word "convulsion" specifically refers to a violent and involuntary contraction or spasm of muscles, which aligns perfectly with the description of a paroxysm. On the other hand, choices B, C, and D are incorrect. "Symptom" (B) refers to a manifestation of a condition rather than a physical spasm. "Efficacy" (C) relates to effectiveness or success, not a sudden spasm. "Embolism" (D) refers to the obstruction of a blood vessel, which is unrelated to the concept of a sudden spasm. Therefore, convulsion is the most suitable synonym for a paroxysm in this context.

2. What word meaning 'once a year' fits best in the sentence: 'The _____ family reunion picnic was held at the Jones farm instead of the county park.'

• A. regular
• B. annual
• C. biennial
• D. holiday

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The word 'annual' refers to something that happens once every year. 'Regular' could mean frequent but doesn't specify a yearly event. 'Biennial' refers to something occurring every two years, while 'holiday' relates to a special day of celebration, not necessarily an annual event.

3. What is the term for the lower surface of a structure?

• A. Inferior
• B. Transverse
• C. Dorsal
• D. Ventral

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Ventral' because it specifically refers to the lower surface of a structure. 'Inferior' means below in position, 'Transverse' means situated across something, and 'Dorsal' refers to the upper side or back of a structure, making them incorrect in the context of the lower surface of a structure.

4. What does the word Trepidation mean?

• A. Fear
• B. Misgivings
• C. Confidence
• D. Doubt

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Misgivings'. Trepidation is defined as a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that may happen. Choice A ('Fear') is too broad and does not capture the specific sense of unease that trepidation conveys. Choice C ('Confidence') is the opposite of what trepidation represents. Choice D ('Doubt') is related to uncertainty but does not fully encapsulate the sense of fear and anxiety associated with trepidation.

5. If a patient's condition is deteriorating, he is ______.

• A. Improving
• B. Getting worse
• C. Stabilizing
• D. Reversing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Getting worse.' When a patient's condition is deteriorating, it means that their health is declining or worsening. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because improving, stabilizing, and reversing all indicate positive changes or holding steady, which are the opposite of deteriorating.

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