Jarvis Physical Examination and Health Assessment Test Bank

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that can lead to an increase in the size and strength of the heart muscle, resulting in an increased amplitude of the apical impulse. This is due to the heart working harder to pump blood effectively. Hypothyroidism (choice A) typically does not cause an increase in the amplitude of the apical impulse. Aortic stenosis (choice B) and mitral stenosis (choice C) both result in pressure or volume overload on specific chambers of the heart, but they do not directly lead to diffuse and increased amplitude of the apical impulse like cardiomyopathy does. In summary, an increase in the amplitude of the apical impulse is more likely to be caused by cardiomyopathy due to the increased workload on the heart muscle, compared to the other conditions provided in the choices.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Metabolic problems. The patient's inability to maintain sustained upward hand posture indicates asterixis, a sign of metabolic encephalopathy commonly seen in patients with liver failure due to alcoholism. This is caused by metabolic disturbances affecting the brain's function, leading to confusion and motor abnormalities. It is not indicative of a stroke (A), carpal tunnel syndrome (C), or severe fatigue and weakness (D), as they do not typically present with asterixis or the described palm movements.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Migraines with aura. Estrogen in contraceptives can increase the risk of stroke in patients with migraines with aura due to its effect on blood clotting. Estrogen-progestin contraceptives should be avoided in these patients to reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Choices A, C, and D do not have a direct contraindication to estrogen-progestin contraceptives based on current guidelines.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vomiting and pain. Small bowel obstruction typically leads to vomiting due to the blockage preventing food from passing through. Pain occurs as the intestine tries to push against the obstruction. Nausea and diarrhea (choice A) are more common in large bowel obstructions. Hematemesis and bloody stool (choice C) suggest bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Indigestion and anorexia (choice D) are not specific to small bowel obstruction. Therefore, the combination of vomiting and pain is indicative of small bowel obstruction.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Every year. Annual assessment aligns with American Heart Association guidelines to monitor these key health indicators regularly for early detection and management of potential cardiovascular risks. More frequent assessments (A) may be unnecessary and burdensome. Less frequent assessments (C, D) increase the risk of missing important changes in health status that could lead to adverse outcomes. Regular yearly assessments allow for timely interventions and adjustments to promote optimal cardiovascular health.