You Have Been Called by a Family for Their Mother

question 72

Multiple Choice

You have been called by a family for their mother, who is "not acting right." On scene you find the 69-year-old woman to be confused and seemingly slow in talking. Her airway is open and respirations are 12 per minute. Her pulse is 58 beats per minute and her skin is cool to the touch, despite the thermostat keeping the house at normal room temperature. Family also states that she has been this way for about three days and before then seemed to be doing just fine. Your partner obtains a blood pressure that is 104/52 mmHg. When getting a medical history from the family, which piece of information would make sense, given the presentation of the patient?

• A) "Mom suffers from a low thyroid."
• B) "She takes a daily vitamin every day."
• C) "Mom had her gallbladder out last year."
• D) "She used to take a blood pressure pill."

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Definitions:

Serial Processing

A cognitive process in which the brain analyzes information in a sequential, step-by-step manner.

Top-Down Processing

A cognitive process that emphasizes the importance of conceptual knowledge, expectations, and memories in making interpretations and decisions, starting with generalities before moving to specifics.

Fragrant Odors

Pleasant and sweet-smelling scents that are often produced by flowers, herbs, spices, and other substances.

Pleasant Memories

Recollections of past events or experiences that evoke positive emotions and feelings of happiness or contentment.