Jarvis Physical Examination and Health Assessment Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical presentation described is consistent with a Bartholin's gland infection, also known as Bartholin's abscess. The Bartholin's glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening and can become blocked, leading to glandular secretions accumulating and forming an abscess. Symptoms of Bartholin's gland infection include pain, swelling, and tenderness in the vulvar area. The pain can be severe and exacerbated by sitting, similar to what the patient is experiencing. On examination, a red, tense swelling to the side of the introitus is a characteristic finding.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Intermittent claudication is a common symptom of peripheral vascular disease. It is characterized by muscle pain or cramping in the legs, usually in the calves, thighs, or buttocks, that occurs during physical activity such as walking and is relieved by rest. This symptom is due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles during exercise. It is important to assess for intermittent claudication in patients with risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, and hypertension, as it may indicate underlying peripheral arterial disease. The other symptoms listed (chest pressure with exertion, shortness of breath, knee pain) are not typically associated with peripheral vascular disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Relief of the pain with bending at the waist is a key hallmark of spinal stenosis. This position helps relieve the pressure on the nerves in the spinal canal, which is often the root cause of the leg symptoms experienced by the patient. The symptoms described by Mr. Edwards, such as cramps in the calves after walking a certain distance, followed by relief with rest and recurrence upon walking again, are highly suggestive of spinal stenosis. This condition involves narrowing of the spinal canal, leading to compression of the nerves and resulting in symptoms like leg cramps, weakness, and difficulty walking, especially with prolonged activity. The relief of symptoms when bending forward (e.g., leaning on a shopping cart while walking) is a characteristic feature of neurogenic claudication associated with spinal stenosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The description provided, which includes a clearly demarcated, round patch of hair loss without visible scaling or inflammation and absence of hair shafts, is characteristic of alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in round or oval patches on the scalp or other parts of the body. It is not associated with pulling or twisting of hair (trichotillomania), fungal infection (tinea capitis), or hair loss due to constant pulling force (traction alopecia). In alopecia areata, the affected area usually appears smooth and without visible signs of irritation. Treatment options for alopecia areata may include corticosteroid injections, topical immunotherapy, or minoxidil.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The young woman in this scenario is exhibiting characteristics of histrionic personality disorder. Individuals with histrionic personality disorder tend to be overly dramatic, attention-seeking, and have a tendency to be excessively emotional in their reactions. The young woman's exaggerated response to a minor cut on her finger, along with her dramatic declaration that her career as a pianist is over, reflects the emotional and attention-seeking behaviors commonly associated with histrionic personality traits.