advaNcEd PaThoPhysiology REviEw
wiTh vERiFiEd aNswERs & RaTioNalEs
(chamBERlaiN)
Format of the final exam in NR 507 - Answer-The final exam consists of 100 multiple-choice
questions and is comprehensive.
Key concepts covered in Weeks 5-8 of NR 507 - Answer-Gastrointestinal pathologies,
Neurobiological pathologies, Endocrine pathologies, CNS sensory and motor pathologies, Brain
pathologies, Dermatologic pathologies.
Key concepts covered in Weeks 1-4 of NR 507 - Answer-COPD, Asthma, Hypersensitivity
reactions, Restrictive vs. Obstructive disorders, Heart failure, Lab markers for Anemia, Anemias,
Iron deficiency anemia, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Heart valve disorders.
Subjective symptoms of GERD - Answer-Heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia, and chest pain.
Objective findings in a physical examination of uncomplicated GERD - Answer-The physical
examination is usually normal, although there may be signs of esophagitis or other
complications in severe cases.
Pathophysiology of GERD - Answer-GERD is caused by lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction,
hiatal hernia, and esophageal motility disorders leading to gastric acid flowing back into the
esophagus.
,Treatment options for GERD - Answer-Lifestyle modifications, medications (antacids, H2
receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, prokinetic agents), and surgery.
Warning signs of GERD for patients over 50 - Answer-Dysphagia, odynophagia, nausea and
vomiting, weight loss, melena, and early satiety.
Pathophysiology of appendicitis - Answer-Appendicitis involves obstruction of the lumen of the
appendix, leading to inflammation, infection, and potential perforation due to increased luminal
pressure and compromised blood flow.
Common symptoms of appendicitis - Answer-Periumbilical pain, RLQ pain, fever and
leukocytosis, nausea, and vomiting.
Diagnostic tests for appendicitis - Answer-WBC count greater than 10,000 cells/mm3 with
increased neutrophils, C-reactive protein, abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI.
Risks following an appendectomy - Answer-Increased risk of colon cancer among individuals
aged 50-74 years.
NP role in the treatment of GERD - Answer-The NP evaluates the effectiveness of the treatment.
Lifestyle modifications for GERD patients - Answer-Lifestyle modifications may include dietary
changes, weight management, and avoiding triggers.
Medications commonly used to treat GERD - Answer-Antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, proton
pump inhibitors, and prokinetic agents.
Significance of esophageal motility disorders in GERD - Answer-Impaired esophageal peristalsis
reduces esophageal clearance, leading to pooling of gastric acid.
, Role of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in GERD - Answer-The LES dysfunction allows
gastric acid to flow back into the esophagus, contributing to GERD.
Potential complications of untreated appendicitis - Answer-Untreated appendicitis can lead to
perforation and systemic response.
Importance of C-reactive protein in diagnosing appendicitis - Answer-Increased C-reactive
protein indicates systemic inflammation associated with appendicitis.
Typical pain pattern associated with appendicitis - Answer-Pain typically starts as periumbilical
pain and later localizes to the right lower quadrant (RLQ).
Role of imaging in diagnosing appendicitis - Answer-Imaging such as abdominal ultrasound, CT
scan, and MRI are used to confirm the diagnosis of appendicitis.
Major risk factor for GERD associated with Hiatal Hernia - Answer-Diaphragmatic weakness.
Contributing factors to Hiatal Hernia - Answer-Aging, obesity, pregnancy, increased intra-
abdominal pressure (chronic coughing or Valsalva maneuver), and structural abnormalities of
the diaphragm.
Hiatal Hernia - Answer-A condition caused by aging, obesity, pregnancy, increased intra-
abdominal pressure (chronic coughing or Valsalva maneuver), and structural abnormalities of
the diaphragm.
Lifestyle modification for Hiatal Hernia - Answer-Eating small, frequent meals.