Answer:
The goal of the physical examination is to differentiate structural focal CNS problems from diffuse metabolic processes. Pay special attention to vital signs, general appearance, mental status, eye findings, and the motor examination.
The general appearance should be noted before examining the patient. Are there signs of trauma? Is there symmetry of spontaneous movements?
Mental status should [...]

Answer:
This seems like a stupid question because the patient with altered consciousness cannot give you a reliable history, and the comatose patient cannot give any history at all! You should question carefully prehospital personnel and attempt to contact the patient’s friends or family. Ask about the onset of symptoms (acute or/gradual), recent neurologic symptoms (headache, [...]

Answer:
TIPS-Vowels–that is, TIPS-AEIOU.
TIPS
T Trauma, temperature
I Infection (CNS and systemic)
P Psychiatric
S Space-occupying lesions, stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, shock
VOWELS
A Alcohol and other drugs
E Endocrine, exocrine, electrolytes
I Insulin (diabetes)
O Oxygen (lack of), opiates
U Uremia

Answer:
Mental alertness is maintained by the cerebral hemispheres in conjunction with the reticular activating system. Coma can be produced by diffuse disease of both cerebral hemispheres (usually a metabolic problem), disease in the brainstem that damages the reticular activating system, or a structural central nervous system (CNS) lesion that compresses the reticular activating system.

Answer:
What terms should be used to describe altered sensorium? A depressed mental state in which verbal and physical stimuli cannol elicit useful responses. Other terms, such as lethargic, stuporous, or obtunded, mean different things to different observers and should be avoided. It is best to describe the mental functions the patient can perform (e.g., the [...]

Answer:
The immune system, like all organ systems, is constantly turning over its cells and protein components. It undergoes even more rapid turnover than most systems. The immune system must regenerate much of itself each day. It must be able to recognize antigenic substances and quickly synthesize many proteins, such as immunoglobulins, complement, and enzymes. It [...]

Answer:
Yes. Fiber-free formulas can contribute to gut mucosal atrophy, especially in the distal portion of the small bowel, and in the colon. Atrophy can lead to diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and lack of nutrient absorption. There are many other causes of diarrhea, including antibiotics or other medications, Clostridium difficile, food intolerance, or simple interference with [...]