Question

Your patient is a 16-year-old female who is reporting abdominal pain and nausea. She says it came on when she woke up this morning. Her mother says that her daughter has been tired and cranky lately and has not been eating well for a couple of weeks. In fact, every time you ask a question, the patient's mother answers. What should you do next?

A. Have your partner interview the mother in the next room.
B. Tell the mother to leave the room.
C. Ask the mother to please be quiet.
D. Ignore the mother and continue to try to talk to the patient.

Answer 1

Possible causes of the symptoms in the given cases include meningitis, tropical disease or infection, and gastroenteritis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the information provided, Hannah's symptoms could be indicative of a condition called meningitis. Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms of meningitis include abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, confusion, sensitivity to light, and a stiff neck. It is important for Hannah to seek medical attention promptly, as meningitis can be a life-threatening condition.

The case of Marisa, who experienced severe abdominal pain, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and a fever, could be related to an infection or inflammation in her abdomen. Given that she had recently traveled to Cambodia and received medical care in Vietnam, it is possible that she could have contracted a tropical disease or an infection related to her spinal cord compression.

Carli's signs and symptoms, which include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, could be indicative of gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis is commonly caused by a viral or bacterial infection, and it typically leads to inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Medical evaluation is necessary to determine the specific cause of Carli's symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.