Free COMSAE Clinical Disciplines Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the most common initial treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis?
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Correct answer)
- Corticosteroids
Correct answer: Amoxicillin-clavulanate
For acute bacterial sinusitis, Amoxicillin-clavulanate is the most common initial antibiotic treatment. This combination antibiotic is often preferred due to its broader spectrum of activity, including coverage against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria, which are common in sinus infections. It helps to eradicate the bacterial infection and alleviate symptoms.
Question 2: Which maneuver is used to assess the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) integrity in the knee?
- Lachman test (Correct answer)
- McMurray test
- Apley compression test
- Thompson test
Correct answer: Lachman test
The Lachman test is the most sensitive and reliable clinical maneuver used to assess the integrity of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. During the test, the examiner stabilizes the thigh and applies an anterior translational force to the tibia while the knee is flexed at 20-30 degrees. Excessive anterior translation or a soft, mushy endpoint indicates a positive test, suggesting an ACL injury.
Question 3: A patient presents with left-sided chest pain, shortness of breath, and diminished breath sounds on the left side. What is the most likely diagnosis?
- Pneumothorax (Correct answer)
- Pulmonary embolism
- Myocardial infarction
- Pneumonia
Correct answer: Pneumothorax
A pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms of left-sided chest pain, shortness of breath, and diminished breath sounds on the left side. These findings are classic for air accumulating in the pleural space, which compresses the lung and prevents it from expanding fully. The diminished breath sounds occur because less air is moving into the affected lung.
Question 4: What is the preferred treatment for an acute gout flare?
- Allopurinol
- Colchicine (Correct answer)
- Probenecid
- Febuxostat
Correct answer: Colchicine
Colchicine is a preferred treatment for an acute gout flare, especially when initiated early in the attack. It works by inhibiting neutrophil migration and activity, thereby reducing the inflammatory response to uric acid crystals in the joint. While other medications like NSAIDs or corticosteroids can also be used, colchicine is specifically effective in targeting the inflammatory cascade of gout.
Question 5: Which dermatologic condition is characterized by silvery scales and plaques on the extensor surfaces?
- Eczema
- Lichen planus
- Tinea corporis
- Psoriasis (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by well-demarcated, erythematous (red) plaques covered with silvery scales. These lesions commonly appear on extensor surfaces such as the elbows, knees, and scalp. It is an autoimmune condition where skin cells grow too quickly, leading to the characteristic thick, scaly patches.
Free COMSAE Clinical Disciplines Questions and Answers
What is the most common initial treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis?