Short Case Study Questions
A 73-year-old retired administrative assistant has had recurrent episodes of pneumonia with weight loss for the past 5 months. Her past medical history includes high cholesterol and diabetes. Currently, she is admitted to the hospital because of complications arising from a recent stroke.
-The nurse suspects a swallowing problem and recommends an evaluation that involves direct visualization of the esophagus, which will most likely be performed by ____.

Question

Short Case Study Questions  
A 73-year-old retired administrative assistant has had recurrent episodes of pneumonia with weight loss for the past 5 months. Her past medical history includes high cholesterol and diabetes. Currently, she is admitted to the hospital because of complications arising from a recent stroke.
-The nurse suspects a swallowing problem and recommends an evaluation that involves direct visualization of the esophagus, which will most likely be performed by ____.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An endoscopy involves direct visualization of the esophagus, making it the most appropriate choice for evaluating a suspected swallowing problem. A barium swallow test is another option but is less preferred because it involves radiation exposure and does not provide as clear of an image. A neurological exam would not directly evaluate the esophagus, and surgery would not be the first choice without a confirmed diagnosis.