Physical Assessment Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A tightly fitted blood pressure cuff can result in a false high reading by compressing the underlying artery too much, causing an inaccurate measurement. It is important to ensure that the blood pressure cuff is appropriately sized for the patient's arm to obtain an accurate reading. The other factors listed, such as the patient being seated quietly, measuring on a bare arm, and supporting the patient's arm at the correct level, all contribute to obtaining an accurate measurement of blood pressure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the given scenario, being a 35-year-old archaeologist with fair skin, a family history of melanoma, and many freckles scattered across her skin are all risk factors for melanoma. Age (choice A) is a relevant risk factor as melanoma incidence increases with age. Actinic lentigines (choice C), also known as sunspots, are precancerous skin lesions that can increase the risk of developing melanoma. Heavy sun exposure (choice D) is a significant risk factor as cumulative sun exposure over time can contribute to the development of melanoma.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presentation of severe testicular pain with a red, tense scrotum, and absent cremasteric reflex on one side is highly concerning for testicular torsion. Testicular torsion is a urologic emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord twists, leading to compromised blood flow to the testicle. The affected testicle can become ischemic and necrotic within hours, necessitating prompt diagnosis and intervention to avoid permanent damage or loss of the testicle.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When crackles, wheezes, or rhonchi clear with a cough, it is suggestive of bronchitis. Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often due to a viral infection, leading to the production of excess mucus. The characteristic sounds such as crackles, wheezes, or rhonchi can be heard on auscultation due to the presence of mucus in the airways. The act of coughing helps to clear the mucus from the airways, resulting in the temporary resolution of these abnormal sounds. In contrast, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and heart failure are not typically associated with crackles, wheezes, or rhonchi that clear with a cough.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Diminished radial pulses may be seen in patients with arterial emboli. Arterial emboli are blood clots that travel through the bloodstream and get lodged in a blood vessel, blocking blood flow to a certain area. When an embolus affects the arteries supplying the arm, it can lead to diminished pulses in the affected arm, such as the radial pulse in the wrist. This diminished pulse is due to decreased blood flow to the area beyond the blockage caused by the embolus. This distinguishes arterial emboli from the other options listed, as aortic insufficiency, hyperthyroidism, and early "warm" septic shock typically do not cause isolated diminished radial pulses.