Question 1 Examination of the throat in a child demonstrating signs and symptoms of acute epiglottitis may contribute to which life-threatening complication? Retropharyngeal abscess Laryngospasms Rupturing of the tonsils Gagging induced aspiration Question 2 Causes of hyperkalemia include: Hyperparathyroidism and malnutrition Vomiting and diarrhea Renal failure and Addison disease Hyperaldosteronism and Cushing disease Question 3 What is the life span of an erythrocyte (in days)? 20 to 30 60 to 90 100 to 120 200 to 240
Question 1: Examination of the throat in a child demonstrating signs and symptoms of acute epiglottitis may contribute to which life-threatening complication?
Answer: The correct answer is laryngospasms. Acute epiglottitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, which is the flap located at the base of the tongue. This inflammation can cause a narrowing of the airway, leading to difficulty breathing. During examination of the throat, any manipulation or irritation of the epiglottis can trigger laryngospasms, which are the involuntary contractions of the vocal cords that can further obstruct the airway and potentially lead to respiratory failure. Therefore, it is crucial to approach the examination of a child with acute epiglottitis with caution to avoid exacerbating the condition.
Question 2: Causes of hyperkalemia include:
Answer: The correct answer is renal failure and Addison’s disease. Hyperkalemia refers to elevated levels of potassium in the blood. Potassium is an essential electrolyte involved in various physiological processes, including regulation of heartbeat and muscle function. When the kidneys are not able to excrete potassium adequately due to renal failure, the levels of potassium can increase, leading to hyperkalemia. Additionally, Addison’s disease, which is characterized by insufficient production of adrenal hormones, can also contribute to hyperkalemia. This is because adrenal hormones, such as aldosterone, play a role in regulating potassium levels in the body. Therefore, when aldosterone levels are deficient, potassium excretion is impaired, leading to elevated potassium levels in the blood.
Question 3: What is the lifespan of an erythrocyte (in days)?
Answer: The correct answer is 100 to 120 days. Erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells, are the most abundant type of blood cells in the body. Their primary function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to various tissues and organs and carry carbon dioxide back to the lungs for elimination. The lifespan of an erythrocyte is relatively short compared to other cells in the body due to the continuous wear and tear they experience during circulation. Erythrocytes are constantly being produced in the bone marrow to maintain their population in the bloodstream. However, after approximately 100 to 120 days, they become old and less functional, and they are eventually removed from the circulation by the spleen and liver. The components of these aged erythrocytes are recycled and reused by the body.
In conclusion, examination of the throat in a child with acute epiglottitis should be approached carefully to avoid triggering laryngospasms, which can further obstruct the airway. Hyperkalemia can occur due to renal failure and Addison’s disease, leading to elevated levels of potassium in the blood. The lifespan of an erythrocyte is approximately 100 to 120 days, after which they are removed from circulation and recycled by the body.