NUR 3066C Clinical Reasoning: Health Assessment Final Exam Review Q & A 2026 (Complete And Verified Study material) (20pages) LEARNEXAMS

1. A 54-year-old male patient presents with a two-day history of sharp, localized left lower quadrant pain. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis? A. Appendicitis B. Diverticulitis C. Pancreatitis D. Cholecystitis Answer: B. Diverticulitis Rationale: The location and character of the pain, along with the patient's age, make diverticulitis the most likely diagnosis. Appendicitis typically presents with right lower quadrant pain, pancreatitis with epigastric pain, and cholecystitis with right upper quadrant pain. 2. A patient reports fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. Which diagnostic test would be most appropriate to evaluate for hypothyroidism? A. Complete blood count (CBC) B. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level C. Fasting blood glucose D. Electrolyte panel Answer: B. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level Rationale: These symptoms are suggestive of hypothyroidism, and the TSH level is the most sensitive initial test for this condition. 3. During a health assessment, a nurse auscultates high-pitched, whistling sounds primarily during expiration in a patient with shortness of breath. These sounds are known as: A. Rhonchi B. Crackles C. Wheezes D. Pleural friction rub Answer: C. Wheezes Rationale: Wheezes are high-pitched sounds that are often heard in patients with asthma or COPD and are indicative of narrowed airways. 4. A 23-year-old female presents with a sudden onset of unilateral pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting. She has a history of irregular menses. What should be the initial step in her assessment? A. Pelvic ultrasound