Physical Assessment Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: According to American Cancer Society recommendations, a woman should undergo a screening breast examination by a skilled clinician every year. Regular breast exams help in early detection of breast cancer, which can significantly improve outcomes and treatment options. Annual screenings are crucial in monitoring changes in breast health and detecting any abnormalities at the earliest stage possible. Therefore, it is advised that women follow this guideline to prioritize their breast health and well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The information provided pertains to the patient's educational background, living situation, family status, and work activities. This type of information falls under the personal and social history category, as it provides important context about the patient's lifestyle, living conditions, and social support network. Personal and social history is essential for understanding the patient's overall well-being and can impact their health and healthcare needs.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The group of lymph nodes that lie just behind the sternocleidomastoid muscles bilaterally are known as the posterior cervical lymph nodes. These lymph nodes are part of the superficial cervical lymph node chain, which is involved in draining lymph from the head and neck region. In the case described, the presence of sore throat, fever, and enlarged tonsils with exudates suggests a likely upper respiratory tract infection or tonsillitis, leading to the enlargement of the nearby lymph nodes. The posterior cervical lymph nodes are commonly examined in cases of upper respiratory infections and tonsillitis due to their proximity to the area of infection and inflammation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Audiometric testing is a very sensitive method for detecting hearing loss. It involves a series of tests that measure a person's ability to hear sounds at various frequencies and volumes. These tests can detect even subtle changes in hearing ability and provide detailed information on the type and degree of hearing loss. The whisper test and finger rub test are basic screening tests and are not as sensitive or comprehensive as audiometric testing. The tuning fork test is also used in evaluating hearing loss, but it is not as accurate or sensitive as audiometric testing. Overall, audiometric testing is considered the gold standard for diagnosing hearing loss due to its high sensitivity and ability to provide detailed information on the individual's hearing capabilities.

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.