1.
You examine a 38-year-old woman who has presented for an initial examination and Pap test. She has no complaint. Her BP is 144/98 bilaterally and her body mass index is 31. The rest of her physical exam is unremarkable. Your next best action is to:
Correct Answer
B. Arrange for at least two additional BP measurements during the next 2 weeks
Explanation
The correct answer is to arrange for at least two additional BP measurements during the next 2 weeks. This is because the patient's blood pressure is elevated at 144/98, which indicates hypertension. However, a single elevated blood pressure reading is not enough to diagnose hypertension. It is recommended to confirm the diagnosis by obtaining multiple blood pressure measurements over a period of time. This will help determine if the elevated blood pressure is sustained or if it was just an isolated reading. Therefore, arranging for additional BP measurements is the next best action to accurately diagnose and manage the patient's hypertension.
2.
You see a 68-year-old woman as a patient who is transferring care to your practice. She has a 10-year history of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Current medications include HCTZ, glipizide, metformin, simvastatin, and daily low-dose aspirin. Today's BP reading is 138/88 and the rest of her history and exam is unremarkable. Your next best action is to
Correct Answer
A. Prescribe and ACE inhibitor
Explanation
The patient is a 68-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Her blood pressure reading is 138/88, which is above the target range for patients with these comorbidities. Prescribing an ACE inhibitor would be the next best action as it is a recommended first-line medication for patients with hypertension and diabetes. ACE inhibitors have been shown to be effective in reducing blood pressure and preventing complications associated with hypertension. Therefore, prescribing an ACE inhibitor would help to better control the patient's blood pressure and reduce her risk of cardiovascular events.
3.
You examine a 78-year-old woman with long-standing, poorly controlled hypertension. When evaluating her for hypertensive target organ damage, you look for evidence of:
Correct Answer
C. Left ventricular hypertropHy
Explanation
When evaluating a patient for hypertensive target organ damage, one of the key things to look for is evidence of left ventricular hypertrophy. This is because long-standing, poorly controlled hypertension can cause the heart muscle to thicken and enlarge in response to the increased workload. Left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and myocardial infarction. Therefore, identifying left ventricular hypertrophy in a patient with poorly controlled hypertension is important for assessing the extent of organ damage and determining appropriate management strategies.
4.
Diagnostic testing for a patient with new stage 1 primary HTN diagnosis should include all of the following except:
Correct Answer
B. Uric acid
Explanation
When diagnosing a patient with new stage 1 primary hypertension, it is important to assess certain factors that could contribute to the condition. Hematocrit (Hct), creatinine, and potassium levels are all relevant indicators that can help determine the cause and severity of hypertension. Uric acid, on the other hand, is not directly related to hypertension and therefore would not be necessary to include in the diagnostic testing.
5.
In the person with HTN, which of the following would likely yield the greatest potential reduction in BP in a patient with a BMI of 30?
Correct Answer
A. 10-kg weight loss
Explanation
Losing 10 kg of weight would likely yield the greatest potential reduction in blood pressure (BP) in a person with hypertension (HTN) and a BMI of 30. Obesity is a known risk factor for HTN, and weight loss can significantly lower BP. Losing 10 kg would result in a substantial reduction in body mass, leading to decreased strain on the cardiovascular system and improved overall health. Dietary sodium restriction, regular aerobic physical activity, and moderate alcohol consumption can also contribute to lowering BP, but the impact of weight loss is generally more significant.
6.
Which of the following medications is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker?
Correct Answer
C. Amlodipine
Explanation
Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker. It works by blocking the calcium channels in the smooth muscles of blood vessels, causing them to relax and dilate. This helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, Verapamil is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, and Doxazosin is an alpha-1 blocker. Therefore, Amlodipine is the correct answer as it belongs to the dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers.
7.
Which of the following medications is a nondihydropyridine calcium channel blocker?
Correct Answer
B. Diltiazem
Explanation
Diltiazem is a nondihydropyridine calcium channel blocker. It works by blocking the movement of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, which helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, thus reducing blood pressure. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, and Prazosin is an alpha-1 blocker. Therefore, the correct answer is Diltiazem.
8.
Which of the following medications is an alpha-adrenergic antagonist?
Correct Answer
D. Doxazosin
Explanation
Doxazosin is an alpha-adrenergic antagonist medication. It works by blocking the alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscles of the blood vessels and prostate. This causes relaxation of the blood vessels, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. It is commonly used to treat hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Enalapril, Diltiazem, and Felodipine are not alpha-adrenergic antagonists and have different mechanisms of action.
9.
Which of the following medications is an ACEI
Correct Answer
A. Trandolapril
Explanation
Trandolapril is the correct answer because it belongs to the class of medications known as ACE inhibitors (ACEIs). ACE inhibitors work by blocking the action of an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which helps to relax and widen blood vessels, reducing blood pressure. Clonidine, Felodipine, and Doxazosin are not ACE inhibitors but belong to different classes of medications used to treat hypertension.
10.
Which of the following medications is an angiotensin receptor antagonist?
Correct Answer
C. Telmisartan
Explanation
Telmisartan is an angiotensin receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow, thereby relaxing and widening the blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Trandolapril is an ACE inhibitor, Methyldopa is a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, and Atenolol is a beta blocker, none of which are angiotensin receptor antagonists.
11.
Which of the following medications is a beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist?
Correct Answer
D. Pindolol
Explanation
Pindolol is a beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist. Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists, also known as beta-blockers, block the action of adrenaline and noradrenaline on beta receptors in the body. Pindolol specifically blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors, making it effective in treating conditions such as hypertension and angina. Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist used for hypertension, spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic used for heart failure and hypertension, and HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic used for hypertension.
12.
The mechanism of action of aliskiren (Tekturna) is as a/an:
Correct Answer
D. Direct renin inhibitor
Explanation
Aliskiren (Tekturna) is a direct renin inhibitor. Renin is an enzyme involved in the production of angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. By inhibiting renin, aliskiren reduces the production of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and decreased blood pressure. It is not an ACEI, beta-adrenergic antagonist, or centrally acting agent.
13.
In obtaining an office BP measurement, which of the following is most reflective of the Seventh Report of the National High Blood Pressure Education Program for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC-7) recommendations?
Correct Answer
A. Patient should sit in chair with feet flat on floor for at least 5 minutes before obtaining a reading
Explanation
The correct answer is "Patient should sit in chair with feet flat on floor for at least 5 minutes before obtaining a reading." This is most reflective of the JNC-7 recommendations because it allows the patient to achieve a relaxed state and stabilize their blood pressure before the measurement is taken. This helps to ensure that the reading is accurate and representative of the patient's true blood pressure.
14.
A BP elevation noted only at an office visit is commonly known as __________ hypertension
Correct Answer
C. White coat
Explanation
White coat hypertension refers to a temporary increase in blood pressure that occurs when a person is in a medical setting, such as a doctor's office or hospital, but not in their everyday life. This phenomenon is believed to be caused by the anxiety or stress of being in a medical environment, leading to a falsely elevated blood pressure reading. It is important to recognize white coat hypertension to avoid unnecessary treatment with medication for hypertension when it is not actually present.
15.
The most important goal of treating HTN is to:
Correct Answer
B. Avoid disease-related target organ damage
Explanation
The most important goal of treating HTN is to avoid disease-related target organ damage. This means that the primary objective of treating hypertension is to prevent damage to organs such as the heart, kidneys, brain, and blood vessels, which can occur as a result of high blood pressure. By effectively managing blood pressure levels, healthcare providers can reduce the risk of complications and improve overall health outcomes for individuals with hypertension. This goal takes precedence over other considerations such as reaching recommended numeric blood pressure measurements, developing a care plan with minimal adverse effects, and treating concomitant health problems.
16.
You start a patient with hypertension who is already receiving an ACEI on sprionolactone. You advise the patient to return in 4 weeks to check which of the following lab parameters?
Correct Answer
C. Potassium
Explanation
When starting a patient with hypertension on spironolactone, it is important to monitor their potassium levels. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it helps the body retain potassium. However, if potassium levels become too high, it can lead to hyperkalemia, which can be dangerous. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly check the patient's potassium levels to ensure they are within a safe range. Monitoring other lab parameters such as sodium, calcium, and chloride may also be important, but the primary concern in this case is the patient's potassium levels.
17.
A 68-year-old woman presents with HTN and a BP of 145-155 / 92-96 mmHG documented over 2 months on three different occasions. ECG and creatinine are normal, and she has no proteinuria. Clinical findings include the following: BMI 26.4; no S3, S4, or murmur; and point of maximal impulse at the 5th intercostal space, mid-clavicular line. Wich of the following represents the best intervention.
Correct Answer
B. Initiate therapy with HCTZ
Explanation
The best intervention in this case is to initiate therapy with HCTZ (hydrochlorothiazide). This is because the patient has hypertension (HTN) with consistently elevated blood pressure readings over a period of time. HCTZ is a diuretic that helps lower blood pressure by reducing the volume of fluid in the body. Since the patient has no evidence of target organ damage and her ECG and creatinine are normal, starting with a diuretic like HCTZ is a reasonable first-line treatment option. Atenolol is a beta-blocker and methyldopa is an alpha-2 agonist, both of which can be considered as alternative options, but in this case, HCTZ is the best choice.
18.
Which of the following can have a favorable effect on a comorbid condition in a person with HTN?
Correct Answer
C. Verapamil in migraine headaches
Explanation
Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that can be used to treat migraine headaches. Migraine headaches are a comorbid condition commonly seen in individuals with hypertension (HTN). Verapamil works by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Therefore, using Verapamil to treat migraines in a person with HTN can have a favorable effect on their comorbid condition.
19.
According to the recommendations found in JNC-7, all of the following medications are designated as having a compelling indication for use in the person with high cardiovascular disease risk except:
Correct Answer
A. Doxazosin
Explanation
The correct answer is Doxazosin. According to the recommendations in JNC-7, all of the medications listed (HCTZ, Atenolol, and Trandolapril) are designated as having a compelling indication for use in individuals with high cardiovascular disease risk. However, Doxazosin is not specifically mentioned as having a compelling indication in this context.
20.
You see a 59-year-old man with poorly controlled HTN. On physical exam, you note grade 1 hypertensive retinopathy. You anticipate all of the following will be present except:
Correct Answer
A. Patient report of acute visual change
Explanation
The presence of grade 1 hypertensive retinopathy indicates mild changes in the blood vessels of the retina due to poorly controlled hypertension. Symptoms such as acute visual change are not typically associated with grade 1 hypertensive retinopathy. The narrowing of the terminal arterioles, sharp optic disc borders, and absence of retinal hemorrhage are commonly observed findings in grade 1 hypertensive retinopathy.
21.
A 52-year-old woman whose BP is consistently 130-135 / 82-86 mmHG who is otherwise well is considered to have:
Correct Answer
B. Prehypertension
Explanation
The given blood pressure readings of 130-135 / 82-86 mmHg fall within the prehypertension range. Prehypertension is a condition where blood pressure levels are higher than normal but not yet classified as hypertension. This condition serves as a warning sign that the individual is at risk of developing high blood pressure in the future. It is important for the woman to monitor her blood pressure regularly and make lifestyle changes to prevent the progression of prehypertension to hypertension.
22.
Which medication(s) are listed as compelling indications for heart failure?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Thiazide Diuretic
B. Beta blocker
C. ACEI
D. ARB
E. Aldosterone antagonist
Explanation
The medications listed as compelling indications for heart failure include Thiazide Diuretic, Beta blocker, ACEI, ARB, and Aldosterone antagonist. These medications are commonly prescribed to manage heart failure and have been shown to be effective in improving symptoms, reducing hospitalizations, and increasing survival rates in patients with heart failure. Thiazide diuretics help in reducing fluid buildup, beta blockers improve heart function, ACEIs and ARBs dilate blood vessels and reduce strain on the heart, and aldosterone antagonists help in reducing fluid retention. These medications target different aspects of heart failure and are often used in combination to provide optimal management for patients.
23.
Which medication(s) are listed as compelling indications for Diabetes?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Thiazide diuretic
B. Beta blocker
C. ACEI
D. ARB
F. Calcium channel blocker
Explanation
The medications listed as compelling indications for Diabetes are Thiazide diuretic, Beta blocker, ACEI, ARB, and Calcium channel blocker. These medications are commonly prescribed to patients with diabetes to manage their blood pressure and prevent complications associated with the disease. Thiazide diuretics help reduce fluid buildup and lower blood pressure, beta blockers decrease heart rate and blood pressure, ACE inhibitors and ARBs relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure, and calcium channel blockers relax blood vessels and reduce the workload on the heart. By effectively managing blood pressure, these medications can help prevent cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes.
24.
Which medication(s) are listed as compelling indications for Chronic renal disease?
Correct Answer(s)
C. ACEI
D. ARB
Explanation
ACE inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) are listed as compelling indications for chronic renal disease. These medications are commonly prescribed to patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) because they have been shown to slow down the progression of kidney damage and reduce proteinuria. ACE inhibitors and ARBs work by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By blocking these effects, ACE inhibitors and ARBs help to lower blood pressure and reduce the strain on the kidneys, thus protecting them from further damage.
25.
Which medication(s) are listed as compelling indications for high risk CAD?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Thiazide diuretic
B. Beta blocker
C. ACEI
F. Calcium channel blocker
Explanation
Thiazide diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers are all listed as compelling indications for high-risk CAD. These medications are commonly prescribed to patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) due to their proven efficacy in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events and improving outcomes. Thiazide diuretics help lower blood pressure and reduce fluid retention, beta blockers decrease heart rate and blood pressure, ACE inhibitors dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, and calcium channel blockers relax and widen blood vessels. These medications are recommended based on evidence from clinical trials and guidelines for the management of CAD.
26.
Which medication(s) are listed as compelling indications for after an MI?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Beta blocker
C. ACEI
E. Aldosterone antagonist
Explanation
After a myocardial infarction (MI), certain medications are recommended as compelling indications. Beta blockers are prescribed to reduce the workload on the heart and prevent future cardiac events. ACE inhibitors (ACEI) are used to lower blood pressure and protect the heart from further damage. Aldosterone antagonists are given to prevent fluid retention and reduce the risk of heart failure. Thiazide diuretics, ARBs, and calcium channel blockers are not specifically mentioned as compelling indications after an MI.
27.
Which medication(s) are listed as compelling indications for Recurrent CVA?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Thiazide diuretic
C. ACEI
Explanation
Thiazide diuretics and ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) are listed as compelling indications for recurrent CVA (cerebrovascular accident) because they have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of stroke recurrence. Thiazide diuretics help lower blood pressure by removing excess fluid from the body, which can help prevent further damage to blood vessels in the brain. ACE inhibitors work by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the production of certain hormones that can contribute to stroke. Therefore, these medications are recommended for individuals with a history of recurrent CVA to help prevent future strokes.
28.
You examine a 24-year-old woman with mitral valve prolapse. Her exam findings also may include:
Correct Answer
A. Pectus excavatum
Explanation
Pectus excavatum is a condition where the breastbone sinks into the chest, creating a concave appearance. It is commonly seen in individuals with connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome, which is associated with mitral valve prolapse. The presence of pectus excavatum in this 24-year-old woman suggests a possible underlying connective tissue disorder, which may be contributing to her mitral valve prolapse.
29.
In performing a cardiac exam in a person with MVP, you expect to find:
Correct Answer
D. A mid to late systolic murmur
Explanation
In performing a cardiac exam in a person with MVP (mitral valve prolapse), a mid to late systolic murmur is expected. MVP is a condition where the mitral valve of the heart does not close properly, causing blood to leak back into the left atrium during systole. This results in a murmur that is heard in the mid to late part of systole when the blood is regurgitating through the valve. The murmur is typically described as a high-pitched, systolic click followed by a late systolic murmur.
30.
Additional findings in MVP include:
Correct Answer
B. A mid-systolic click
Explanation
The presence of a mid-systolic click is an additional finding in MVP. This click occurs during systole, specifically in the middle of systole, and is caused by the sudden tensing and bulging of the mitral valve leaflets into the left atrium. It is typically heard best at the apex and may be followed by a late systolic murmur. The mid-systolic click is a characteristic finding in MVP and is caused by the abnormal movement of the mitral valve.
31.
Intervention for patients with MVP may include:
Correct Answer
D. Encouragement of a regular program for aerobic activity
Explanation
Encouragement of a regular program for aerobic activity is an appropriate intervention for patients with MVP because regular aerobic exercise can help improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen the heart muscle, and promote overall cardiovascular health. It can also help reduce symptoms such as palpitations and improve overall well-being. However, it is important to note that the intensity and duration of exercise should be tailored to the individual's specific condition and limitations, and it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program.
32.
When a heart valve fails to open to its normal orifice size, it is said to be:
Correct Answer
A. Stenotic
Explanation
When a heart valve fails to open to its normal orifice size, it is said to be stenotic. This means that the valve is narrowed or constricted, which restricts blood flow through the valve. This can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Stenosis can occur in any of the heart valves, including the aortic valve, mitral valve, tricuspid valve, and pulmonary valve. Treatment for stenotic valves may involve medication or surgical intervention to repair or replace the affected valve.
33.
When a heart valve fails to close properly, it is said to be:
Correct Answer
B. Incompetent
Explanation
When a heart valve fails to close properly, it is said to be incompetent. This means that the valve is unable to effectively prevent the backflow of blood, leading to regurgitation or leakage of blood in the opposite direction. This condition can result in symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and abnormal heart sounds. Treatment options may include medication or surgical repair/replacement of the valve.
34.
You are evaluating a patient who has rheutmatic heart disease. When assessing her for mitral stenosis, you auscultate the heart, anticipating finding the following murmur:
Correct Answer
B. Localized diastolic with little radiation
Explanation
In patients with mitral stenosis, the narrowing of the mitral valve results in impaired blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle during diastole. This causes a diastolic murmur, which is heard during the filling phase of the cardiac cycle. The murmur is typically localized, meaning it is best heard at the apex of the heart and does not radiate widely. This is due to the restricted blood flow across the narrowed valve. Therefore, the correct answer is "Localized diastolic with little radiation."
35.
In evaluating mitral valve incompetency, you expect to find the following murmur:
Correct Answer
A. Systolic with radiation to the axilla
Explanation
In mitral valve incompetency, the mitral valve does not close properly during systole, causing blood to leak back into the left atrium. This results in a regurgitant flow of blood from the left ventricle to the left atrium during systole, creating a systolic murmur. The radiation to the axilla indicates that the murmur is heard not only at the apex of the heart but also in the axillary region, which is characteristic of mitral valve incompetence.
36.
In evaluating the person with aortic stenosis, the NP anticipates finding 12-lead ECG changes consistent with:
Correct Answer
D. Left ventricular hypertropHy
Explanation
The NP anticipates finding 12-lead ECG changes consistent with left ventricular hypertrophy in a person with aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve, which leads to increased pressure and workload on the left ventricle. Over time, this can cause the left ventricle to become hypertrophied, or thicker, as it tries to pump blood against the narrowed valve. These changes can be detected on an ECG, such as increased voltage amplitudes in the left ventricular leads and repolarization abnormalities.
37.
Of the following patients, who is in greatest need of endocarditis prophylaxis when planning dental work?
Correct Answer
B. 54-year-old woman with a prosthetic aortic valve
Explanation
Patients with prosthetic heart valves are at the highest risk for developing infective endocarditis. Therefore, the 54-year-old woman with a prosthetic aortic valve is in the greatest need of endocarditis prophylaxis when planning dental work.
38.
Of the following people, who has no significant increased risk for developing bacterial endocarditis?
Correct Answer
B. 55-year-old man who was diagnosed with a Still's murmur as a child
Explanation
A Still's murmur is a benign innocent heart murmur that is commonly heard in children and usually disappears by adulthood. It is not associated with any structural abnormalities or increased risk for developing bacterial endocarditis. Therefore, the 55-year-old man who was diagnosed with a Still's murmur as a child has no significant increased risk for developing bacterial endocarditis.
39.
You are examining an elderly woman and find a grade 3/6 crescendo-decrescendo systolic murmur with radiation to the neck. This is most likely caused by:
Correct Answer
A. Aortic stenosis
Explanation
A grade 3/6 crescendo-decrescendo systolic murmur with radiation to the neck is characteristic of aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is the narrowing of the aortic valve, which obstructs the flow of blood from the left ventricle to the aorta. This causes the blood to flow through the narrowed valve with increased velocity, resulting in a murmur. The crescendo-decrescendo pattern indicates the turbulent blood flow through the stenotic valve. The radiation to the neck suggests that the murmur is audible in the carotid arteries, which are located in the neck.
40.
Aortic stenosis in a 15-year-old is most likely:
Correct Answer
B. A result of congenital defect
Explanation
Aortic stenosis in a 15-year-old is most likely a result of a congenital defect. This means that the individual was born with a narrowed aortic valve, which restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. It is less likely to be a sequela of rheumatic fever, which is an inflammatory condition that can cause damage to the heart valves. Calcific aortic stenosis typically occurs in older individuals due to the buildup of calcium deposits on the valve leaflets. There is no mention of an atrial septal defect in the question, so it is not relevant to the most likely cause of aortic stenosis in this case.
41.
A physiological murmur has which of the following characteristics?
Correct Answer
C. Becomes softer when the patient moves from supine to standing
Explanation
A physiological murmur is a normal sound heard during the cardiac cycle. It is typically heard in early systole and is not associated with any underlying heart condition. It is usually heard in a widespread area of auscultation, rather than localized. Additionally, a physiological murmur does not typically affect the sound of the second heart sound (S2). However, it may become softer when the patient changes position from supine to standing due to changes in blood flow dynamics.
42.
You are examining an 18-year-old man who is seeking a sports clearance physical exam. You note a mid-systolic murmur that gets louder as he stands. This may represent:
Correct Answer
B. HypertropHic cardiomyopathy
Explanation
The presence of a mid-systolic murmur that gets louder as the patient stands suggests hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This condition is characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle, which can obstruct blood flow and cause turbulent blood flow, resulting in a murmur. The murmur typically intensifies with maneuvers that decrease left ventricular volume, such as standing up. Aortic stenosis, on the other hand, would typically cause a systolic ejection murmur that radiates to the neck, and it would not be affected by changes in position. A physiologic murmur is usually innocent and does not change with position. Still's murmur is a benign murmur commonly heard in children and is not associated with changes in position.
43.
According to the AHA, which of the following antibiotics should be used for endocarditis prophylaxis in patients who are allergic to PCN?
Correct Answer
C. Azithromycin
Explanation
Azithromycin should be used for endocarditis prophylaxis in patients who are allergic to PCN because it is a macrolide antibiotic that is effective against the bacteria that commonly cause endocarditis. Macrolides are considered an alternative to penicillin for prophylaxis in patients with PCN allergy. Erythromycin is also a macrolide antibiotic, but it is not the preferred choice due to its higher incidence of gastrointestinal side effects. Dicloxacillin is a penicillin antibiotic and should not be used in patients with PCN allergy. Ofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic and is not recommended for endocarditis prophylaxis.
44.
A grade III systolic murmur is usually:
Correct Answer
B. About as loud as the S1 heart sound
Explanation
A grade III systolic murmur is usually about as loud as the S1 heart sound. This means that the intensity of the murmur is similar to the intensity of the first heart sound, which is the normal sound produced by the closing of the mitral and tricuspid valves. This suggests that the murmur is moderately loud and can be easily heard with a stethoscope. The other options, such as being softer than the S2 heart sound, accompanied by a thrill, or heard across the precordium without radiation, are not characteristics typically associated with a grade III systolic murmur.
45.
The S3 heart sound has all of the following characteristics except:
Correct Answer
B. A presystolic sound
Explanation
The S3 heart sound is a low-pitched sound that occurs in early diastole, after the S2 heart sound. It is associated with ventricular overload, such as in conditions like heart failure. The S3 sound is best heard with the bell of the stethoscope placed over the apex of the heart. Therefore, the correct answer is "A presystolic sound" because the S3 sound occurs in early diastole, not during the presystolic phase of the cardiac cycle.
46.
The S4 heart sound has which of the following characteristics?
Correct Answer
B. It is noted in presence of poorly controlled HTN
Explanation
The S4 heart sound is a low-pitched sound that occurs late in diastole, just before the S1 heart sound. It is caused by the contraction of the atria against a stiff or hypertrophic ventricle, indicating decreased ventricular compliance. This sound is commonly heard in patients with poorly controlled hypertension (HTN), as chronic HTN can lead to ventricular hypertrophy and decreased ventricular compliance. Therefore, the correct answer is "It is noted in the presence of poorly controlled HTN."
47.
Of the following individuals, who is most likely to have a physiological split S2 heart sound?
Correct Answer
A. 19-year-old healthy athlete
Explanation
A physiological split S2 heart sound refers to a normal variation in the timing of the closing of the aortic and pulmonic valves, resulting in a split sound. This is commonly observed in young and healthy individuals, particularly athletes, due to their increased cardiac output and enhanced cardiovascular conditioning. Therefore, the 19-year-old healthy athlete is most likely to have a physiological split S2 heart sound.
48.
Causes of unstable angina include all of the following except:
Correct Answer
A. Ventricular hypertropHy
Explanation
Unstable angina is characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion and is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. The causes of unstable angina include vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), nonocclusive thrombus (partial blockage of blood vessels), and inflammation or infection. However, ventricular hypertrophy, which refers to the thickening of the heart muscle, is not typically associated with unstable angina. Ventricular hypertrophy is usually a result of conditions such as high blood pressure or heart valve disease, and it may lead to other cardiac complications, but it is not directly linked to unstable angina.
49.
Which of the following is most consistent with a person presenting with unstable angina?
Correct Answer
C. Chest pressure lasting 20 minutes that occurs at rest
Explanation
A person presenting with unstable angina may experience chest pressure that lasts for a longer duration (20 minutes) and occurs at rest. Unstable angina is characterized by chest pain or discomfort that is unpredictable, occurs at rest or with minimal exertion, and is more severe and prolonged compared to stable angina. The fact that the chest pressure lasts for 20 minutes and occurs at rest suggests that it is consistent with unstable angina.
50.
In assessing a woman with or at risk for acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the NP considers that the patient will likely present:
Correct Answer
C. More commonly with angina and less commonly with acute MI
Explanation
Women with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are more likely to present with angina, which is chest pain or discomfort, compared to men. This is because women tend to have more atypical symptoms of ACS, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or nausea, rather than the typical symptom of chest pain. On the other hand, men are more likely to present with acute myocardial infarction (MI), which is a heart attack. Women also have a lower incidence of heart failure (HF) compared to men. Therefore, it is more common for women with or at risk for ACS to present with angina and less commonly with acute MI or HF.