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D236-WGU PATHOPHYSIOLOGY EXAM COMPLETE QUESTIONS AND CORRECT DETAILED ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS) ALREADY GRADED A+

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D236-WGU PATHOPHYSIOLOGY EXAM COMPLETE QUESTIONS AND CORRECT DETAILED ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS) ALREADY GRADED A+ “What is accomplished by diffusion? - CORRECT ANSWER Movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration." "Osmotic Diarrhea - CORRECT ANSWER Caused by non-absorbable substances in the intestine drawing water into the bowel." "BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) - CORRECT ANSWER A marker used to diagnose heart failure. A higher value indicates this." "What are phagocytic cells? - CORRECT ANSWER Part of innate immunity (inflammatory response) Cells that engulf and digest pathogens and debris EX) Macrophages and Neutrophils" "Turner's Syndrome (Short, webbed neck girl) - CORRECT ANSWER Complete or partial missing X-chromosome in females S/S: Hypothyroidism, Hypertension, Webbing of neck, amenorrhea, short stature, infertility, vission issues, and aortic valve abnormalities." "What are two symptoms of Huntington's Disease? - CORRECT ANSWER Genetic defect of Huntington gene Lack of control-involuntary motor symptoms Cognitive decline Depression Dementia later in disease Muscle spasticity Speech/swallow difficulty" "What is one cause of hypomagnesemia? - CORRECT ANSWER Prolonged diarrhea Laxative Abuse Increased renal excretion of Magnesium Sepsis Burns Serious wounds requiring debridement Alcoholism" "What are clinical manifestations of Hypernatremia? - CORRECT ANSWER Weight gain HTN Mental Changes Dehydration Irritability Tachycardia Flushed skin Dry mucous membranes Oliguria" "Suspected Musculoskeletal Trauma? - CORRECT ANSWER Assess for pain, swelling, bruising, and deformity. Perform appropriate imaging studies." "Which two bacteria are common causes of Otitis Media? - CORRECT ANSWER Streptococcus Pneumoniae Haemophilus Influenzae" "Which two components are part of the pathophysiology of Thalassemia? - CORRECT ANSWER "Abnormal Hgb Structure" & resembles Sickle-Cell Reduced Hgb synthesis and decreased production of hemoglobin aka decreased production of RBCs. RBCs become defective and destroyed in the bone marrow/spleen. S/S: Fatigue, weakness, pallor, exercise intolerance, bone pain/deformities (extreme cases), spleen and liver become filled with dead RBCs and become enlarged, hemolysis, and concentrated bile in gallbladder (can form gallstones; RUG pain/tenderness)." "Sickle-Cell Anemia - CORRECT ANSWER Causes production of flawed Hgb structure; Flawed Hgbs provokes hemolytic rxn by the body and poor O2 carriage by the abnormal cells. S/S: Fatigue, reduced activity tolerance. During vaso-occlusive episodes = severe pain. Long bones often affected. Pain can be in any area of the body. Early in childhood stroke and MI can occur. Damaged organs: Spleen, Liver, & Kidneys TX: Prevention/pain management, educate pt on trigger that cause crisis, bone marrow transplant, IV hydration during crisis" "Aplastic Anemia - CORRECT ANSWER Occurs when bone marrow fails, resulting in hypocellular bone marrow and pantocytopenia = deficiency of all blood cells. Occurs due to radiation/chemo txs and 80% d/t infection (Hepatitis, HIV, Epstein-Barr Virus). S/S: Petechiae, high output heart failure, bleeding gums, easy bruising, nosebleeds, and heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). Lack of RBCs = fatigue, pallor, tachycardia, and tachypnea. Lack of WBCs = increased risk of infection. Increased bleeding risk d/t platelet deficiency." "Two classic symptoms of Asthma? - CORRECT ANSWER Wheezing Cough Shortness of breath (Dyspnea) Chest Tightness" "Two risks factors for developing Hernia? - CORRECT ANSWER Obesity Pregnancy Ascites Heavy Lifting Chronic cough Chronic constipation" "Two conditions that C. trachomatis (Chlamydia) causes: - CORRECT ANSWER Cervicitis Urethritis PID Inclusion Conjunctivitis Epididymitis (in men = uncomfortable to walk)" "N. gonorrhoeae spreads through: - CORRECT ANSWER Sexual contact Causes: Cervicitis, Urethritis Complications: Ectopic pregnancy, infertility, PID, purulent discharge in penis and increased susceptibility to HIV. During vaginal delivery, newborns can contract gonorrhea and develop conjunctivitis, which may lead to blindness." "HSV can spread by: - CORRECT ANSWER Through direct contact with an infected person, including close skin contact, mucosa secretions, sexual contact and from mother to baby during childbirth. S/S: Erythema multiforme-Pink Circular Lesions that cause burning and tenderness." "Hypospadias - CORRECT ANSWER Urethral orifice on the underside of the penis." "Prostate Cancer - CORRECT ANSWER Risk Factor = Family history; especially one's father or brother Low Risk txs: Active surveillance (watchful waiting) High Risk txs: Radical prostatectomy, radiation, and hormonal therapy TX: Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy, Cryotherapy-if it has spread, brachytherapy and Hormonal Therapy. S/S: Decreased force of stream, Hesitancy, Incomplete emptying of the bladder; Back pain is a late stage symptom Testing: DRE, PSA (low specificity = elevated in BPH/Prostate CA), Transrectal ultrasound-guided needle biopsy; Prostate cancer is appraised as a low-risk or high-risk disease according to the Gleason score, PSA levels, and the patient's age and life expectancy. TNM anatomic system is also used to classify pathology and aggressiveness of tumor." "Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) - CORRECT ANSWER Most serious STI in women, 85% of the cases occur in women of childbearing. Caused by N. gonorrheae or C. trachomatis. S/S: Lower abd pain and Pelvic tenderness; Fever, chills, discharge, painful to pee, nausea, back pain, and scars fallopian tubes which can lead to infertility or ectopic pregnancy." "Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax - CORRECT ANSWER A collapsed lung without any obvious cause. Often occurring in young, tall, thin males between 10-30 years old." "Restrictive Airflow - CORRECT ANSWER Can't fully fill their lungs with air. Caused by a condition that causes stiffness in lungs. Interstitial Lung Disease Sarcoidosis Obesity Muscular dystrophy ALS" "Pulmonary Disorders caused by vascular problem in lungs: - CORRECT ANSWER Pulmonary Embolism Pulmonary Hypertension" "Pancreatitis - CORRECT ANSWER Dysfunctional pancreas undergoes inflammation and cellular injury caused by the leakage of activated pancreatic digestive enzymes into the glandular parenchyma. Causes: Gallstones, Excessive Alcohol consumption, High Blood Triglycerides, Abdominal Injury, and certain medications/toxins S/S: Severe abd pain (dull, penetrating, steady), sudden onset of pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, tachycardia, hypotension, dyspnea, and tachypnea." "Pre-renal Dysfunction - CORRECT ANSWER Decreased blood flow and perfusion to the kidneys." "Lymphedema - CORRECT ANSWER Swelling or accumulation of the fluid at the armpits or lymph nodes." "Rhabdomyolysis - CORRECT ANSWER Muscle breakdown products (myoglobulin) to spill into the bloodstream. Myoglobin is toxic; can lead to renal injury. S/S: Tea-colored urine, Elevated CK level" "Ovarian Cancer - CORRECT ANSWER HE4 Biomaker CA 125 Tumor Marker" "Metabolic Acidosis = Excessive loss of base via DKA/Diarrhea - CORRECT ANSWER pH <7.35 and PCO2 <35 mmHg pH is low = acidosis; PCO2 is low pH and CO2 are moving in the same direction. The pH is low (acidic) and CO2 is low. *Lungs increase RR to remove H+" "Metabolic Alkalosis = Develops from excessive base such as retention of base or vomiting (lose acids). - CORRECT ANSWER pH >7.45 and PCO2 >45 mmHg pH is high = alkalosis; PCO2 is high pH and CO2 are moving in the same direction. The pH is high (basic) and CO2 is high; thus CO2 is not causing the alkaline pH. *Lungs decrease RR and kidneys excrete HCO3-" "What are two components that are evaluated as part of the arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis? - CORRECT ANSWER Blood pH Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide (PCO2)" "A patient presented with acute inflammation on both arms after camping. Which type of organism is indicated as a contributor to this reaction? - CORRECT ANSWER Insect" "What are two signs of patients who experience a near drowning? - CORRECT ANSWER Hypoxemia = low levels of oxygen in your blood; can affect brain function Asphyxiation = the state of being deprived of oxygen' can result in unconsciousness or death; suffocation" "Which process does the body use to protect itself from disease? - CORRECT ANSWER Phagocytosis" "A patient was diagnosed with Stage 2 Lyme Disease. Which two responses can the body have in response to this disease? - CORRECT ANSWER Meningitis Nerve Damage" "A patient presents with anemia, jaundice, fever, and malaise due to destruction of RBCs. Which infectious disease does this describe? - CORRECT ANSWER Malaria" "Which infection invades and replicates T4 lymphocyte cells, leaving the body open to opportunistic infections? - CORRECT ANSWER HIV" "What are helper cells? - CORRECT ANSWER Special T cells that produce small proteins called cytokines." "What are two things that antibodies do as part of the immune system? Choose 2 answers. - CORRECT ANSWER Antibodies enhance the action of phagocytic cells. Antibodies recruit the complement system." "What are the possible child outcomes for hemophilia, an X-linked genetic disorder, it one parent is XhX and the other is XY? - CORRECT ANSWER XX XY XhX XhY" "What is one assessment finding of Neurobehavioral Disorder Associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (ND-PAE)? - CORRECT ANSWER Agenesis of the corpus callosum" "What is one variation of Down Syndrome? - CORRECT ANSWER Mosaicism" "Which tool is often helpful in diagnosing renal cell cancer? - CORRECT ANSWER Blood Chemistry" "Which STI is common for men who have sex with men (MSM)? - CORRECT ANSWER Herpes" "What is the distinctive characteristic of oligospermia? - CORRECT ANSWER Abnormally low volume of sperm in ejaculate." "A 35-year-old patient is diagnosed with testicular cancer. The patient has a tender, painful mass in the left testis. The physician recommends surgery. Which tx was recommended? - CORRECT ANSWER Orchidectomy" "What happens to the various anion levels in the bloodstream during DKA? - CORRECT ANSWER The anion gap level increases, whereas the HCO3- level decreases." "How do the kidneys compensate for alkalosis? - CORRECT ANSWER By retaining more H+ and excreting more HCO3-" "What is one cause of edema? - CORRECT ANSWER Diminished osmotic force created by low numbers of solutes in the bloodstream." "What are two causes of metabolic acidosis due to increased noncarbonic acids. Choose 2 answers. - CORRECT ANSWER Diabetic Ketoacidosis Lactic Acidosis Metabolic Acidosis = excess loss of base; body increases RR to remove H+" "A health informatics professional is conducting a documentation review of records at the request of the Infection Control Department. The professional is tasked with flagging records of patients with diseases spread by respiratory secretions. What are two diseases that this HIM professional should flag? - CORRECT ANSWER Varicella Influenza" "What should a healthcare provider recognize as part of a patient's adaptive immune response to an influenza virus? - CORRECT ANSWER Generation of immunoglobulin M (IgM)" "Which apparent electrolyte imbalance may result from untreated acidosis? - CORRECT ANSWER Hyperkalemia Causes: Renal failure where the kidneys lose their ability to excrete K+, thus building up K+ in the ECF and excess H+ in the ICF" "What describes an antimicrobial peptide? - CORRECT ANSWER A chain of amino acids produced by cells in response to pathogenic exposure." "A patient with chronic HTN developed enlargement of L ventricle of the heart. What is the maladaptive cellular change that occurred in this patient? - CORRECT ANSWER Pathological hypertrophy" "Two parents take genetic tests for sickle cell disease. Both parents are heterozygous what are all the possible outcomes for their children? - CORRECT ANSWER Heterozygous Homozygous (Normal) Homozygous (Sickle)" "A six-month-old baby is diagnosed with Tay-Sachs Disease. Which developmental disruptions are associated with this disorder? - CORRECT ANSWER A lysosomal storage disease that results from a mutation on chromosome 15. The lysosomal enzyme, hexosaminidase A, is severely deficient. S/S:Lethargy, muscle flaccidity, motor coordination impairment, and increasing cognitive impairment." "Marfan's Syndrome - CORRECT ANSWER An inherited connective tissue disorder transmitted as an autosomal-dominant trait. S/S: Tall stature with elongated arms and fingers, kyphoscoliosis, ligament hypermobility, and heart murmur." "Which fracture type is when there is more than one fracture line, and more than two bone fragments are shattered or crushed? - CORRECT ANSWER Comminuted" "A patient presents with ringing in the ears, vomiting, and a severe HA after playing football and taking a hard tackle. A CT scan shows that blood has accumulated in the surrounding brain tissue. Which DX is described? - CORRECT ANSWER Cerebral Contusion" "What are two characteristics of a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)? Choose two answers. - CORRECT ANSWER Focial deficits resolve in less than 24 hours. Symptoms last for minutes to hours." "What cerebrovascular accident marked by a blockage of blood flow due to a rupture in a cerebral vessel? - CORRECT ANSWER Hemorrhagic Stroke" "Which two risk factors are associated with HTN? - CORRECT ANSWER Obesity Diabetes Mellitus" "A patient presented with racing of the heart, palpitations, and shortness of breath. The patient's heart rate was 130. Which DX is indicated by this description? - CORRECT ANSWER Atrial Fibrillation" "What is a characteristic of aneurysms? - CORRECT ANSWER Hypertension is a risk factor for aneurysm formation." "What is a clot or undissolved mass that is carried through the circulatory vessels by blood or lymph flow? - CORRECT ANSWER Embolus" "A patient is recieving treatment for Hodgkin disease. What is a possible complication of the treatment for Hodgkin disease? - CORRECT ANSWER A weakened immune system" "Which two conditions are considered as inflammation of the upper respiratory tract? - CORRECT ANSWER Pharyngitis Croup (Swelling of upper airway)" "What are two signs of a pneumothorax? Choose two answers. - CORRECT ANSWER Dyspnea Intercostal muscle retractions" "Which pathophysiological characteristic is associated with pneumonia? - CORRECT ANSWER Exudates filling the air space of alveoli" "What are two common causes of an obstruction in the large intestine? Choose two answers. - CORRECT ANSWER A cancerous mass Benign polyps" "On physical examination, a patient is noted to have pallor, ascites, cachexia, and hepatomegaly. On history, the patient c/o alternating diarrhea and constipation and blood in stool. A barium x-ray was done, followed by a biopsy that confirmed the diagnosis. Based on this information, which dx is indicated? - CORRECT ANSWER Colon Cancer" "What treatment for end-stage renal disease that involves drawing blood outside the patient's body, filtering the blood, and returning the blood to the patient via tubes? - CORRECT ANSWER Hemodialysis" "A 44-year-old patient is admitted for radiation therapy. A pathology report confirms a malignant mass in the left kidney. The patient also has a long-term history of nicotine dependence and HTN. What dx does this indicate? - CORRECT ANSWER Renal Cell Carcinoma S/S: Hematuria, flank pain, and palpable abdominal mass. Most cases are asymptomatic and discovered b/c a renal mass is incidentally seen on x-ray. TX: Radical Nephroectomy along with radiation and chemo therapy plus immunotherapy" "Which phase of acute kidney injury is characterized by a significant decrease in GFR? - CORRECT ANSWER Oliguria = low urine output due to decrease of GFR" "What are two components of the typical clinical presentation of bladder cancer? Choose two answers. - CORRECT ANSWER Frequency of urination Painless gross hematuria" "Graves' Disease = Immune condition that affects the thyroid gland. - CORRECT ANSWER S/S: Fatigue, weight loss, anxiety, loss of sleep, and heat intolerance. Physical examination: Loss of blinking, protruding eyeball, thickened patches on legs, tachycardia, heart murmurs, cardiomegaly. Lab work: Increased T3 and T4 Thyroid scan: Increased uptake of radioactive iodine." "A 60-year-old c/o fever and pain in lower abdomen with guarding, which is relieved after a bowel movement. The provider advises against a barium enema or colonoscopy for dx because it may cause a perforation or hemorrhage. Which condition is described? - CORRECT ANSWER Diverticulitis" "Pleural Effusion - CORRECT ANSWER Accumulation of fluid in the pleural space around the lungs. Causes: Severe pulmonary infection (PNA or TB), Congestive Heart failure, Cancer, Pulmonary Embolism S/S: Dyspnea, Tachypnea, Sharp pleuritic chest pain, dullness to percussion, and diminished breath sounds on affected side." "pH = 7.29 (Norm = 7.35-7.45) Bicarb = 25 (Norm = 22-26) CO2 = 55 (Norm = 35-45) Which cause is consistent with these lab values? - CORRECT ANSWER Respiratory Acidosis; Lungs are NOT ventilating correctly, retention of carbon dioxide = reduction of pH (Caused by COPD, Infection, foreign body obstruction, and severe asthma." "How does the Respiratory System compensate for acid-base disturbances? - CORRECT ANSWER By changing the rate and depth of breathing. Increasing = Expels CO2 to reduce acidity (compensates Metabolic Acidosis) Decreasing = Retains CO2 to increase acidity (compensates Metabolic Alkalosis)" "One symptom of Acidosis? - CORRECT ANSWER Rapid breathing aka Hyperventilation (body trying to get rid of the CO2)" "What describes a gene when the same allele is inherited from both parents? - CORRECT ANSWER Homozygous (HH or hh)" "What statement describes the ICF (Intracellular Fluid) compartment? - CORRECT ANSWER The fluid contained within the cells, making up about 2/3 of the body's total water content." "Which two conditions will cause dehydration and increase water requirements? - CORRECT ANSWER State of diminished water volume in the body. A deficit of intracellular fluid causes body cells to shrink. Severe Diarrhea Excessive Sweating Vomiting" "Which three issues would children with ND-PAE exhibit (fetal alcohol syndrome)? - CORRECT ANSWER Cognitive deficits, Behavioral problems, and Physical Abnormalities Causes birth defects and developmental disabilities = Neurocognition, Self-regulation, and Adaptive functioning Facial features, slow growth, delayed development, vision/hearing issues, and smaller head & brain." "Grade 1 Sprain - CORRECT ANSWER Mild stretching or slight tear of a ligament with little or no joint instability." "Osteoarthritis - CORRECT ANSWER Morning stiffness Swelling Limited ROM Symmetrical joint pain in hips during activity or cold weather Herberden's and Bouchard's nodes noted on fingers" "Melanoma - CORRECT ANSWER Most lethal form of skin cancer; Categorize via ABCDE's = Asymmetry/Border/Color/Diameter/Evolving TX: Surgical Removal, Chemo/Radiation" "Basal Cell Carcinoma - CORRECT ANSWER Small dome-shaped bump covered by superficial blood vessels (telangiectasis). Shiny, translucent, and pearly in appearance. TX: Surgery" "Squamous Cell Carcinoma - CORRECT ANSWER Red, crusted, scaly patch; non-healing ulcer, firm, red nodule TX: Surgery; Chemo/Radiation" "Rule of Nines - CORRECT ANSWER The face and back of head =4.5% each Entire Head = 9% Ant/Post Arm = 9% Front leg = 9% and Back Leg = 9% (18%) Torso (chest/abd) front = 18% and Torso (chest/abd) Back = 18% (36%) Genitalia = 1%" "Partial-Thickness Burns - CORRECT ANSWER Second degree burns = swelling, blisters; blanches with pressure." "Inflammation - CORRECT ANSWER When the body automatically reacts to injured tissue by trauma or bacteria." "Transcription - CORRECT ANSWER The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA." "Innate Immunity - CORRECT ANSWER The body's 1st line of defense against pathogens, involving physical, chemical, and cellular defenses." "Parkinson's Disease - CORRECT ANSWER Mainly associated with progressive loss of dopamine-producing cells in the substania nigra, which is within the bassal ganglia of the midbrain. The basal ganglia modulates movements. TRAP: Tremor at rest, Rigidity, Akinesia or Bradykinesia (slow movement), and Postural/gait instability" "ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) - CORRECT ANSWER Progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a loss of upper and lower motor neurons. Gradual loss of control of muscles. S/S: Involuntary muscle contractions, muscle weakness and atrophy, twitching, dysarthria, dysphagia, and sensation remains intact. Eventually leads to Respiratory Failure." "Multiple Sclerosis - CORRECT ANSWER Autoimmune; demyelinating disorder that results in inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath and other cells within the CNS, ANS, and PNS. S/S: Sudden Motor and sensory weakness, visual problems, incoordination and gait disturbance (ataxia)." "What are two mechanisms from which a thrombus (blood clot) arises and causes ischemic stroke? - CORRECT ANSWER Thrombosis = clot formation in the a blood vessel Embolism = Clot traveling from another part of the body" "A patient had a ruptured aneurysm, which is caused by a CVA? - CORRECT ANSWER A cerebrovascular accident (CVA) can be caused by a ruptured aneurysm leading to hemorrhagic stroke." "Two risk factors for hyperlipidemia? - CORRECT ANSWER Gene mutations = Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Diabetes Mellitus Diet (saturated fat intake and cholesterol content) Obesity Hypothyroidism Physical Activity Medications" "Hemolytic Anemia - CORRECT ANSWER Accelerated RBC destruction exceeds erythrocyte production. Body's immune system acts as though the RBCs are antigens and produces antibodies against them. Causes: Mechanical turbulence via prosthetic cardiac valves; Can be an adverse effect of medication. S/S: Fatigue, pallor, SOB, chills, jaundice is possible (increased bilirubin = dark urine and enlarged spleen)" "What two nutrients are necessary for synthesizing RBCs? - CORRECT ANSWER Iron Vitamin B12 (Folic Acid)" "Which condition allows blood to flow back into the L Atrium from the L Ventricle? - CORRECT ANSWER Mitral Valve Regurgitation = condition where valve between left chambers doesn't close properly. Blood leaks back across the valve. S/S: Irregular heartbeat, SOB, palpitations, and swollen feet and/or ankles." "Complications from uncontrolled HTN: - CORRECT ANSWER Stroke Heart Attack Kidney Failure Aneurysm Eye problems" "Parasite that causes Malaria: - CORRECT ANSWER Plasmodium malariae/vivax/ovale/falciparum S/S: Jaundice, renal damage, fever, chills, HA, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, and orthostatic hypotension *Strong immune system can suppress disease so that individual can have asymptomatic periods in life." "Hodgkin's Lymphoma - CORRECT ANSWER Cancer that originates from the lymphocytes (WBCs; part of the body's immune system). Reed-Sternberg cells are present. S/S: Painless and enlarged lymph nodes, Abdominal pain, fever, chills, weight loss, headache, swelling in upper chest/head/arms" "Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma - CORRECT ANSWER Cancer originates in the lymph system. Lymphocytes grow abnormally and can form growth throughout the body. S/S: Splenomegaly, Hepatomegaly, abd pain, fever, chills, unexplained weight loss, HA, seizures, SOB, high sweats, lack of energy, rash and itching." "Ulcerative Colitis - CORRECT ANSWER Chronic inflammatory disease that affects mucosal layer of the large intestine. (colon). Pseudopolyps are seen on examination of the colon. S/S: Severe Abd pain and tenderness, blood in stool, gurgling sound, diarrhea, and weight loss. Complications: Colon CA, Osteoporosis, Liver disease, Toxic megacolon, and bleeding. Found via biopsy/colonoscopy" "Crohn's Disease - CORRECT ANSWER Inflammation of any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus. Involves the whole thickness of the intestine's wall, cobblestone mucosa, and anal fistulas. S/S: Abd pain, chronic diarrhea w/ bleeding or mucus, and weight loss. Found via biopsy/colonoscopy" "Peptic Ulcer Disease - CORRECT ANSWER Causes: H. pylori, NSAIDs or excess HCL found in stomach that erodes lining. S/S: Pain occurs between meals, pain (burning and gnawing sensation), relieved by food; Bleeding ulcer causes nausea, bright-red/coffee ground like emesis, and melena Complications: GI Bleed, Perforation, Penetration TX: PPI via high IV-dose" "Appendicitis - CORRECT ANSWER Caused by narrowing of the appendix lumen from obstruction. Inflammation of the wall of the appendix develops. There is development of a medium for bacterial growth. S/S: Acute Abd pain (in belly button to RLQ-McBurney's Point), fever, and constipation. Rebound tenderness and abd rigidity (involuntary guarding). Tests: CT scan, abd ultrasound, WBC levels" "Acute Glomerulonephritis - CORRECT ANSWER Inflammation of glomeruli in the kidneys, often following an infection. Glomerulus filters blood. S/S: Sudden edema, hematuria, proteinuria, and HTN. Usually begin to occur 7-21 days after strep infection. Urinary output will also decrease." "Nephrolithiasis - CORRECT ANSWER The formation of stones (calculi) in the kidney. Predisposing Factors: Dehydration (low fluid content in urine) & High Salt Diet (Hypercalciuria); Obesity, Male, over 40 yrs old, gastric bypass surgery, location (hot, arid), and inflammatory bowel disease." "Factors that increase a woman's risk for UTIs? - CORRECT ANSWER -Improper perineal hygiene -Wearing tight clothing -Restrictive clothing -Use of irritating bath products -Sexual intercourse -Use of contraceptive diaphragms and spermicides -Diabetes" "A 68 year old male reports UTI, Urinary Retention, and nocturia. Pt has hx of chronic cystitis and nicotine use. Pt is diagnosed with malignant epithelial cells aka bladder cancer. What type of tx is suggested? - CORRECT ANSWER TX: Transurethral Resection of tumor. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, Radiation therapy, and radical cystectomy if large/invasive tumor is present. S/S: Painless, intermittent, gross hematuria. Frequency of urination pain, and burning with urination." "Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) - CORRECT ANSWER An abrupt insult to the kidney that causes a rapid decrease in renal filtration function. Nitrogenous waste products accumulate in the body. Causes: Reduced renal blood flow that reduces GFR. Intrinsic Causes = associated with actual damage to the kidney tissue, often associated with nephrotoxic agents (NSAIDs), infectious processes, trauma, or obstruction of nephron tubules. S/S: Oliguria and Fluid overload TX: IV Fluids, Diuretics, Cardiac Monitor, HD or CCRT for unstable pts" "Retinal Detachment - CORRECT ANSWER S/S: Sudden flash of light, floaters, and disrupted vision." "Vitamin B12 Deficiency - CORRECT ANSWER Pernicious Anemia-which results from vitamin B12 deficiency Causes: By the failure of cells in the gastric mucosa to secrete adequate levels of protein. S/S: Anemia, fatigue, exercise intolerance, dyspnea, weakness, and tachycardia, Numbness/tingling in hands/feet TX: Lifelong use of Vitamin B12 injections." "Anemia from Chronic Blood Loss - CORRECT ANSWER Slow blood loss from GI tract, Heavy Mensus, or Colon Cancer. Depletes body of iron (Iron-deficiency anemia). Causes: Upper GI issues (Peptic Ulcer); Lower GI issues (Colon Cancer)" "Two common causes of Pericarditis? - CORRECT ANSWER The inflammation of the pericardial membrane that surrounds the heart. Causes: Viral Infection & Myocardial Infarction (usually appears on 2nd/3rd day after a MI) S/S: Chest pain, fever, dsypnea, clammy skin, hypotension, pericardial friction rub, and specific ECG findings (elevated ST-segment levels). TX: ABX, anti-inflammatory agents, heart failure meds like Diuretics" "Causes of Secondary Hypertension? - CORRECT ANSWER Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypercalcemia Pregnancy-Induced HTN" "Two causes of inadequate ventilation? - CORRECT ANSWER Asphyxiation, Aspiration, Asthma, COPD, PNA, Pulmonary edema, Thoracic Muscle paralysis, and opiate toxicity." "Most important concern for COPD? - CORRECT ANSWER Impaired gas exchange related to airflow obstruction." "Obstructive Airflow - CORRECT ANSWER Unable to exhale all the air from their lungs d/t damage of the lungs. Emphysema Chronic Bronchitis Asthma Cystic Fibrosis" "Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) - CORRECT ANSWER An aggressive cancer that is more common in children than adults. S/S: Anemia, Fatigue, Weakness, dizziness, dyspnea, and pallor. Fevers, chills, night sweats and other flulike symptoms." "HPV (Human papillomavirus infection) - CORRECT ANSWER Cancers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva in women. Cancers of the penis in men. Both men and women: Cancers of the anus, back of throat, and base of tongue and tonsils. S/S: Small wart-like lesions that are raised, flat or shaped like cauliflower." "CCRT - CORRECT ANSWER Used for patients who are hemodynamically unstable and fluid overloaded (electrolyte abnormalities). The continuous process takes smaller volumes of blood from the patient and filters it through a dialyzer over 24 hours." "ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease) - CORRECT ANSWER S/S: Lethargy, oliguria, itchy/dry skin. Respiratory compromise related to fluid overload, HTN, and uremic coma. Encephalopathy, uremic frost and fetor, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, heart failure, infertility/ED, edema, High BUN/CR, anemia, electrolyte imbalances, thrombocytopenia, and peripheral neuropathy." "Hypocalcemia - CORRECT ANSWER Chvostek's Sign = Fascial Twitching Trousseau's Sign = Hand/Wrist muscles contracting" "Hemorrhagic Stroke - CORRECT ANSWER Cerebral artery ruptures and can no longer bring blood to the brain tissue." "Aneurysm - CORRECT ANSWER Weakening in an artery wall that causes a localized area of bulging or dilation." "Respiratory Acidosis = Hypoventilation - CORRECT ANSWER pH <7.35 and PCO2 >45 mmHg pH is low = acidosis; PCO2 is high pH and CO2 are moving in opposite directions. High CO2 is contributing to the acidic pH. *Kidney is attempting to compensate through reabsorption of HCO3-" "Respiratory Alkalosis = Hyperventilation - CORRECT ANSWER pH >7.45 and PCO2 <35 mmHg pH is high = alkalosis; PCO2 is low pH and CO2 are moving in opposite directions. The low CO2 is contributing to the basic pH. *Kidneys try to reabsorb H+ and excrete HCO3-" "A patient presented with swelling of the femur. MRI results indicated enlargement and thickening of the bone. The UA showed Hydroxyproline. The patient was prescribed NSAIDs and PT, and surgery was recommended. Which disease does this describe? - CORRECT ANSWER Paget Disease" "A radiologist report shows a patient's standing AP and lateral views of the entire spine demonstrate an arcuate thoracolumbar with a rightward convexity. Based on these findings, which condition is indicated? - CORRECT ANSWER Scoliosis" "A patient's condition is characterized by a thick, hard patch on the heel of the foot. The patch is painful when the patient walks. Upon examination of the area, the physician determines removal via cryosurgery would be appropriate. Which condition is described in this scenario? - CORRECT ANSWER Plantar Warts" "What is a common first symptom of glaucoma? - CORRECT ANSWER Halos around lights" "Which condition is caused by degeneration of the nerves that carry impulses to and from the brain and spinal cord, causing loss of sensation, pain and inability to control muscles? - CORRECT ANSWER Peripheral Neuropathy" "What disorder of vision is characterized by pressure of the optic nerve from elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)? - CORRECT ANSWER Glaucoma" "Which two complications are associated with acute otitis media? - CORRECT ANSWER Infection of the temporal bone and mastoid process." "What are two predisposing factors to deep venous thromboembolism? Choose 2 answers. - CORRECT ANSWER Venous Stasis Hypercoagulability" "A patient has local dilation of a blood vessel with weakening of its walls. Which condition does this describe? - CORRECT ANSWER Aneurysm" "Which condition occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the heart and damages the heart muscle due to lack of oxygen? - CORRECT ANSWER Myocardial Infarction" "A 52-year-old patient presents with palpitations, edema, and tachypnea. This patient also has chronic conditions, including hypertension and CAD. The patient has a history of smoking and MI. The patient is placed on digoxin drip and a low-sodium diet. Which condition is being described? - CORRECT ANSWER Congestive Heart Failure" "What risk factors are associated with Lymphoma? - CORRECT ANSWER Radiation exposure and Immunosuppressive therapy." "What are symptoms of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)? - CORRECT ANSWER Fatigue Fever" "Which two conditions affect the lower respiratory tract? - CORRECT ANSWER Asthma Pneumonia" "What is a symptom of sudden onset of a pulmonary emoblism? - CORRECT ANSWER Cough" "A patient's lung X-ray shows lesions of calcified inflamed granular tissue. Biopsy shows necrosis of lung tissue. Which disease does this patient have? - CORRECT ANSWER Pulmonary Tuberculosis" "Which three areas should a patient with a GI disorder be questioned about. Choose 3 answers. - CORRECT ANSWER Swallowing Indigestion Eructation = belching" "A patient reports an RUQ abd pain that radiates to the back and shoulder. Additionally, the patient is c/o of nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. Which disorder is described? - CORRECT ANSWER Cholelithiasis" "What is an example of intestinal motility disorder? - CORRECT ANSWER An obstructive lesion" "Cushing's Syndrome - CORRECT ANSWER Happens when the body has too much cortisol in the body. S/S: Fatty hump between shoulder blades, moon face, pink or purple stretch marks on the skin, weight gain in trunk, thin/frail skin, acne, slow wound healing. High blood pressure or bone loss. Can cause Type 2 Diabetes."

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Institution
Pathophysiology
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Pathophysiology










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Institution
Pathophysiology
Course
Pathophysiology

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November 6, 2025
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2025/2026
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D236-WGU PATHOPHYSIOLOGY EXAM
COMPLETE QUESTIONS AND CORRECT DETAILED ANSWERS
(VERIFIED ANSWERS) ALREADY GRADED A+

“What is accomplished by diffusion? - CORRECT ANSWER Movement of molecules
from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration."

"Osmotic Diarrhea - CORRECT ANSWER Caused by non-absorbable substances in the
intestine drawing water into the bowel."

"BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) - CORRECT ANSWER A marker used to diagnose
heart failure. A higher value indicates this."

"What are phagocytic cells? - CORRECT ANSWER Part of innate immunity
(inflammatory response)
Cells that engulf and digest pathogens and debris
EX) Macrophages and Neutrophils"

"Turner's Syndrome (Short, webbed neck girl) - CORRECT ANSWER Complete or
partial missing X-chromosome in females
S/S: Hypothyroidism, Hypertension, Webbing of neck, amenorrhea, short stature,
infertility, vission issues, and aortic valve abnormalities."

"What are two symptoms of Huntington's Disease? - CORRECT ANSWER Genetic defect
of Huntington gene
Lack of control-involuntary motor symptoms
Cognitive decline
Depression
Dementia later in disease
Muscle spasticity
Speech/swallow difficulty"


"What is one cause of hypomagnesemia? - CORRECT ANSWER Prolonged diarrhea
Laxative Abuse
Increased renal excretion of Magnesium
Sepsis
Burns
Serious wounds requiring debridement
Alcoholism"



2

,"What are clinical manifestations of Hypernatremia? - CORRECT ANSWER Weight gain
HTN
Mental Changes
Dehydration
Irritability
Tachycardia
Flushed skin
Dry mucous membranes
Oliguria"

"Suspected Musculoskeletal Trauma? - CORRECT ANSWER Assess for pain, swelling,
bruising, and deformity. Perform appropriate imaging studies."

"Which two bacteria are common causes of Otitis Media? - CORRECT ANSWER
Streptococcus Pneumoniae
Haemophilus Influenzae"


"Which two components are part of the pathophysiology of Thalassemia? - CORRECT
ANSWER "Abnormal Hgb Structure" & resembles Sickle-Cell
Reduced Hgb synthesis and decreased production of hemoglobin aka decreased production
of RBCs.
RBCs become defective and destroyed in the bone marrow/spleen.
S/S: Fatigue, weakness, pallor, exercise intolerance, bone pain/deformities (extreme
cases), spleen and liver become filled with dead RBCs and become enlarged, hemolysis, and
concentrated bile in gallbladder (can form gallstones; RUG pain/tenderness)."

"Sickle-Cell Anemia - CORRECT ANSWER Causes production of flawed Hgb structure;
Flawed Hgbs provokes hemolytic rxn by the body and poor O2 carriage by the abnormal
cells.
S/S: Fatigue, reduced activity tolerance. During vaso-occlusive episodes = severe pain. Long
bones often affected. Pain can be in any area of the body. Early in childhood stroke and MI
can occur.
Damaged organs: Spleen, Liver, & Kidneys
TX: Prevention/pain management, educate pt on trigger that cause crisis, bone marrow
transplant, IV hydration during crisis"

"Aplastic Anemia - CORRECT ANSWER Occurs when bone marrow fails, resulting in
hypocellular bone marrow and pantocytopenia = deficiency of all blood cells.




2

, Occurs due to radiation/chemo txs and 80% d/t infection (Hepatitis, HIV, Epstein-Barr
Virus).
S/S: Petechiae, high output heart failure, bleeding gums, easy bruising, nosebleeds, and
heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). Lack of RBCs = fatigue, pallor, tachycardia, and
tachypnea. Lack of WBCs = increased risk of infection. Increased bleeding risk d/t platelet
deficiency."


"Two classic symptoms of Asthma? - CORRECT ANSWER Wheezing
Cough
Shortness of breath (Dyspnea)
Chest Tightness"

"Two risks factors for developing Hernia? - CORRECT ANSWER Obesity
Pregnancy
Ascites
Heavy Lifting
Chronic cough
Chronic constipation"


"Two conditions that C. trachomatis (Chlamydia) causes: - CORRECT ANSWER
Cervicitis
Urethritis
PID
Inclusion Conjunctivitis
Epididymitis (in men = uncomfortable to walk)"

"N. gonorrhoeae spreads through: - CORRECT ANSWER Sexual contact
Causes: Cervicitis, Urethritis
Complications: Ectopic pregnancy, infertility, PID, purulent discharge in penis and
increased susceptibility to HIV. During vaginal delivery, newborns can contract gonorrhea
and develop conjunctivitis, which may lead to blindness."

"HSV can spread by: - CORRECT ANSWER Through direct contact with an infected
person, including close skin contact, mucosa secretions, sexual contact and from mother to
baby during childbirth.
S/S: Erythema multiforme-Pink Circular Lesions that cause burning and tenderness."

"Hypospadias - CORRECT ANSWER Urethral orifice on the underside of the penis."




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