Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which diagnostic tool is typically not available in primary care for evaluating organ pathology?

1. X-ray

2. Ultrasound

3. Computed Tomography

4. Transillumination

The correct answer is: Computed Tomography

Computed Tomography (CT) is typically not available in primary care settings for evaluating organ pathology due to a number of factors. While CT scans provide highly detailed cross-sectional images and are excellent for diagnosing various conditions, such as tumors or internal injuries, they generally require specialized equipment and facilities found in hospital settings or specialized imaging centers. Primary care offices usually focus on more accessible and less expensive diagnostic tools for initial evaluations. In contrast, other options like X-rays and ultrasounds are more commonly available in primary care due to their portability, cost-effectiveness, and lower radiation exposure. Transillumination, while a simpler and more basic technique, can also be performed in a primary care setting for certain evaluations, such as assessing fluid in cysts or guiding office procedures. Hence, the distinction of CT scans not being typical in primary care environments relates directly to the need for advanced imaging technology and resources that are largely available in more specialized medical facilities.