MSN Advanced Pathophysiology 2

Question 1

Cor pulmonale develops as a result of which underlying pathophysiological process?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary hypertension leading to right ventricular hypertrophy

Answer

Cor pulmonale is right heart disease caused by pulmonary hypertension, which increases afterload on the right ventricle leading to hypertrophy and eventual failure.

Question 2

In septic shock, which initial hemodynamic pattern is characteristically observed?

Accepted Answer

Low systemic vascular resistance with high cardiac output (warm shock)

Answer

Early septic shock presents as warm shock with vasodilation, low SVR, and compensatory high cardiac output due to cytokine-mediated vasodilation.

Question 3

Which pathophysiological change causes the Kussmaul breathing pattern in diabetic ketoacidosis?

Accepted Answer

Metabolic acidosis stimulating chemoreceptors to increase ventilation

Answer

The metabolic acidosis of DKA stimulates central and peripheral chemoreceptors, driving compensatory hyperventilation (Kussmaul respirations) to blow off CO2.

Question 4

Atherosclerosis formation begins with which initial pathological event?

Accepted Answer

Endothelial dysfunction and LDL infiltration into the intima

Answer

Atherosclerosis is initiated by endothelial dysfunction, which allows LDL to infiltrate the intima and undergo oxidation, triggering an inflammatory cascade.

Question 5

A patient with chronic liver disease develops hepatic encephalopathy. Which substance primarily contributes to neurological dysfunction?

Accepted Answer

Ammonia accumulating due to impaired hepatic urea cycle

Answer

Impaired hepatic ammonia detoxification leads to hyperammonemia; ammonia crosses the blood-brain barrier and disrupts neurotransmission, causing encephalopathy.

MSN - Master Of Science In Nursing Degree Practice Test

MSN - Master Of Science In Nursing Degree Practice Test

MSN Advanced Pathophysiology 2