A 34-Year-Old Man Comes to the Emergency Department with Fatigue

question 303

Multiple Choice

A 34-year-old man comes to the emergency department with fatigue and lightheadedness.  The patient had an upper respiratory infection last week, and since then his energy level has been low with shortness of breath on mild exertion.  Otherwise, his medical history is insignificant.  He is a lifetime nonsmoker.  The patient's temperature is 37 C (98.6 F) , blood pressure is 80/60 mm Hg, and pulse is 120/min and regular.  His pulse becomes undetectable to palpation during inspiration.  The lungs are clear to auscultation, but the jugular veins are distended.  Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

• A)Acute myocardial infarction
• B)Acute viral myocarditis
• C)Cardiac tamponade
• D)Constrictive pericarditis
• E)Septic shock
• F)Tension pneumothorax

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Definitions:

Social Psychology

The examination of individuals' thoughts, emotions, and actions within societal settings through scientific methods.

Belief Perseverance

The tendency for people to hold on to their beliefs even in the face of contradictory evidence.

Cognitive Stickiness

The tendency for certain beliefs or pieces of information to remain persistent in one's mind despite counterarguments or evidence to the contrary.

Cognitive Dissonance

The psychological discomfort experienced when holding two or more conflicting cognitions (beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors).