A 32-Year-Old Hospitalized Man Is Evaluated for New-Onset Shortness of Breath

question 190

Multiple Choice

A 32-year-old hospitalized man is evaluated for new-onset shortness of breath and confusion.  The patient was admitted 3 days ago following a motor vehicle collision during which he sustained bilateral femur fractures, a pelvic fracture, and urethral injury.  He underwent surgical repair with no operative complications.  Temperature is 37.9 C (100.2 F) , pulse is 110/min, respirations are 24/min, and oxygen saturation is 84% on room air.  On physical examination, the patient appears agitated and disoriented.  The lungs are clear to auscultation and there is no lower extremity edema.  A petechial rash is present on the chest.  ECG shows sinus tachycardia with no ischemic changes.  Which of the following histologic changes has most likely taken place in this patient's lung tissue?

• A)Alveolar fluid rich in neutrophils
• B)Fat microglobules in pulmonary arterioles
• C)Prominent interstitial infiltration by mononuclear cells
• D)Red thrombus lodged in the pulmonary artery
• E)Scattered necrosis with alveolar hemorrhage

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Definitions:

Expected Outcome

The anticipated result of an action, decision, or event, based on current knowledge, probabilities, and reasoning.

Utility

In economics, the satisfaction or benefit derived by consuming a product or service.

Insurance Policy

A contract between an insurer and a policyholder in which the insurer agrees to compensate the policyholder for loss or damage specified in the policy, in exchange for premiums paid by the policyholder.

Expected Utility

A theory in economics that calculates the utility expected from risky or uncertain investments, aiming to quantify preferences over risky alternatives.