what function does aldosterone serve in the body

ATI RN

ATI Pathophysiology Exam 3

1. 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.

2. After a 27-year-old woman with epilepsy had a generalized seizure, she feels tired and falls asleep. This is:

A. an ominous sign.
B. normal and termed the postictal period.
C. a reflection of an underlying brain tumor.
D. only worrisome if there are focal neurologic deficits after.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: normal and termed the postictal period. The postictal period is a common phase following a seizure where the individual may experience fatigue, confusion, or sleepiness. It is a normal part of the seizure event and does not necessarily indicate a serious issue. Choice A is incorrect because feeling tired and falling asleep after a seizure is not an ominous sign but rather a typical postictal symptom. Choice C is incorrect as there is no indication in the scenario provided that links the symptoms to an underlying brain tumor. Choice D is incorrect because the absence of focal neurologic deficits does not make the postictal period worrisome.

3. What is a potential implication of multiple dark bands on the nails?

A. They are considered a normal variant.
B. They can be associated with malignant melanoma.
C. They are indicative of a nail fungus.
D. They are associated with aging.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Multiple dark bands on the nails can be a concerning sign of malignant melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can affect the nails. While some nail changes are considered normal variants, dark bands should not be dismissed lightly as they can indicate a serious condition like melanoma. Nail fungus typically presents differently, causing discoloration, thickening, or distortion of the nail without distinct dark bands. Additionally, aging can lead to various nail changes, but dark bands alone are not a common feature of normal aging.

4. A 10-year-old male is stung by a bee while playing in the yard. He experiences a severe allergic reaction and has to go to the ER. The nurse providing care realizes this reaction is the result of:

A. Toxoids
B. IgA
C. IgE
D. IgM

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: IgE. A severe allergic reaction, such as the one experienced by the 10-year-old male after being stung by a bee, is mediated by IgE. IgE is involved in common allergic responses, triggering the release of histamine and other chemicals that lead to allergy symptoms. Choice A, Toxoids, are inactivated toxins used in vaccines. Choice B, IgA, is mainly found in mucosal areas and secretions, playing a role in mucosal immunity. Choice D, IgM, is the first antibody produced in response to an infection.

5. A nurse is conducting an assessment on a client who presents with symptoms that are characteristic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). What assessment finding would be expected in this client?

A. Reduced reflexes in all four limbs
B. Decreased cognitive function
C. Involuntary muscle contractions
D. Hyperreflexia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hyperreflexia. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), hyperreflexia is a common assessment finding due to the degeneration of upper motor neurons. This results in an overactive reflex response to stimuli. Reduced reflexes in all four limbs (choice A) are not typically seen in ALS; instead, hyperreflexia is more common. Decreased cognitive function (choice B) is not a primary characteristic of ALS. Involuntary muscle contractions (choice C) are more indicative of conditions such as dystonia or myoclonus, not ALS.