Physician Assistant Physician Assistant 5

Question 1

A 68-year-old woman with osteoporosis is started on alendronate. Which instruction is most important to give her?

Accepted Answer

Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking it

Answer

Bisphosphonates like alendronate must be taken on an empty stomach with water and the patient must remain upright for at least 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and ulceration.

Question 2

A 40-year-old male presents with acute monoarthritis of the first MTP joint, redness, warmth, and severe pain that started overnight. Serum uric acid is 9.2 mg/dL. What is the best initial treatment for acute gout?

Accepted Answer

Colchicine or NSAIDs

Answer

The acute gout attack is treated with anti-inflammatory agents such as colchicine, NSAIDs, or corticosteroids; urate-lowering agents like allopurinol are not initiated during acute attacks.

Question 3

Which of the following findings is most consistent with cardiac tamponade?

Accepted Answer

Beck's triad: hypotension, distended neck veins, muffled heart sounds

Answer

Beck's triad (hypotension, jugular venous distension, and muffled heart sounds) is the classic presentation of cardiac tamponade caused by pericardial fluid compressing the heart.

Question 4

A 55-year-old male presents with progressive bilateral lower extremity weakness, fasciculations, hyperreflexia, and bulbar symptoms. There is no sensory deficit. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Answer

ALS is characterized by combined upper and lower motor neuron findings (hyperreflexia + fasciculations) with bulbar involvement and absence of sensory deficits.

Question 5

A PA has reasonable suspicion that a patient is being abused by a caregiver. Which of the following is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

File a mandatory report with Adult Protective Services or child protective services

Answer

PAs are mandatory reporters in all US states; suspected abuse must be reported to the appropriate protective services, and failure to report is a legal and ethical violation.

Physician Assistant Practice Test

Physician Assistant Practice Test

Physician Assistant Physician Assistant 5