ATI RN
Test Bank Physical Examination and Health Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 21-year-old receptionist comes to your clinic, complaining of frequent diarrhea. She states that the stools are very loose and there is some cramping beforehand. She states this has occurred on and off since she was in high school. She denies any nausea, vomiting, or blood in her stool. Occasionally she has periods of constipation, but that is rare. She thinks the diarrhea is much worse when she is nervous. Her past medical history is not significant. She is single and a junior in college majoring in accounting. She smokes when she drinks alcohol but denies using any illegal drugs. Both of her parents are healthy. Her entire physical examination is unremarkable. What is most likely the etiology of her diarrhea?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The patient's history of frequent loose stools with cramping, occurring since high school and worsening during periods of nervousness, along with occasional constipation, is characteristic of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and altered bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both) without any evidence of organic disease. The absence of systemic symptoms like fever, weight loss, or blood in the stool, as well as normal physical examination findings, also support the diagnosis of IBS in this case. This condition is often triggered or exacerbated by stress or anxiety. Monitoring stress levels, dietary modifications, and possibly prescription medications may help manage IBS symptoms in this patient.
Question 2 of 5
Dawn is a 55-year-old woman who comes in today for her yearly wellness examination. You carefully perform the rectal examination in the lithotomy position and feel a mass against the bowel wall which is firm and immobile. Which of the following is most likely?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The presence of a firm and immobile mass felt against the bowel wall during a rectal examination is concerning for a potential malignancy, such as colon cancer. Other conditions such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures are typically not associated with a mass that is firm and immobile. The "Valve of Houston" is a term that does not pertain to this scenario and is not a recognized medical entity. Therefore, the most likely diagnosis based on the given information is colon cancer, and further evaluation such as a colonoscopy would be warranted for definitive diagnosis and management.
Question 3 of 5
The following information is best placed in which category? "The patient was treated for an asthma exacerbation in the hospital last year; the patient has never been intubated."
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The information provided about the patient being treated for an asthma exacerbation and not being intubated falls under the category of adult illnesses. Asthma is a common respiratory condition that affects people of various ages but is more prevalent in adults. The fact that the patient was treated for an asthma exacerbation and has not required intubation indicates a relevant medical history related to adult illnesses and respiratory conditions. This information would be considered when evaluating and managing the patient's current health status and potential risks related to respiratory issues.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following is consistent with obturator sign?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The obturator sign is a physical examination maneuver used to assess for irritation of the obturator muscle due to an inflamed appendix that is in close proximity. This pain is typically felt in the right lower quadrant or hypogastric region. The sign is elicited by passively flexing the hip and knee of the patient, then internally rotating the hip. An alternative method is to position the patient on her left side and ask her to raise her right thigh against resistance while the examiner provides counterpressure. Pain experienced by the patient with these maneuvers is consistent with obturator sign, indicating possible appendicitis. Hence, option C is the correct answer.
Question 5 of 5
Based on this information, which of the following is appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The most appropriate response based on the information provided would be to give the patient information concerning the reduction of fat and cholesterol in her diet because she is obese. The patient's weight falls in the obese category, and addressing diet is an important step in managing obesity. Providing guidance on reducing fat and cholesterol intake can help the patient make healthier food choices and work towards achieving a healthier weight. Additionally, diet plays a significant role in overall health, so addressing nutrition is crucial when managing obesity. It is important to approach the topic sensitively and provide support and resources to help the patient make positive changes for their health.
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