NU 606 Advanced Pathophysiology

Week 7 Assignment

Differential Case Study

Instructions

Read the patient case studies below. List 3 differential diagnosis for each and why you believe these to be solid options that should be considered by the provider. Copy and paste the patient scenarios into a word document and use bullet points below each patient for your differential diagnosis, and then upload the assignment. Below is an example.

Patient X: 7-year-old Hispanic male with a cough and temperature of 99.9F

Differential Dx:

Allergic rhinitis

URI

Pneumonia

Patients

Patient 1: 28-year-old woman with opioid use disorder; uses IV heroin; has PTSD; no other medical problems or medications. She currently is single, lives with several roommates, and has a history of legal problems (with some jail time). Sexually active with men and women; inconsistent use of protection.

Patient 2: 70-year-old man with a history of CHF, COPD, and HTN; currently smokes one pack of cigarettes daily; takes Lisinopril, Digoxin, and Symbicort daily. Married to wife of 30 years and is retired (previously an accountant), is supported by adult children, and lives with his wife at home.

Patient 3: 40-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer that was successfully treated with Tamoxifen for several months. Otherwise healthy, with no other issues at this time. She is a successful businesswoman in a high-profile career with much stress. Married to wife of four years; relationship is rocky at times. Denies any substance use; travels frequently.

Symptoms are the same for all 3 patients:

Shortness of breath

Chest pain

Flank pain

Fever