A client is diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). What symptom would the nurse expect to see?

Choice A reason: Flushing the exposed skin with water is the first action that the nurse should take if they are stuck by a needle. This is to reduce the amount of blood or body fluid that may have entered the wound and to prevent infection. The nurse should flush the skin for at least 15 minutes and avoid using soap, antiseptic, or bleach as they may damage the skin or increase the risk of infection.

Choice B reason: Reporting the exposure is the second action that the nurse should take after flushing the exposed skin with water. This is to inform the supervisor, the occupational health department, or the infection control team about the incident and to initiate the postexposure protocol. The nurse should provide the details of the exposure, such as the type and source of the needle, the depth and location of the wound, and the status of the source patient.

Choice C reason: Seeking medical attention is the third action that the nurse should take after reporting the exposure. This is to receive a medical evaluation and treatment, such as testing, prophylaxis, counseling, and followup. The nurse should consult a health care provider as soon as possible and follow the recommendations for preventing or treating any potential infections, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV.

Choice D reason: Completing an incident report is the last action that the nurse should take after seeking medical attention. This is to document the exposure and the actions taken and to identify the causes and the preventive measures for the future. The nurse should fill out the incident report form accurately and objectively and submit it to the appropriate authority. The incident report is not a part of the client's record and should not be mentioned in the client's chart.

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect answer because a pathogenic infection is caused by a microorganism that can cause disease in a healthy host. Pathogens are usually able to overcome the host's immune defenses and cause symptoms and damage. Examples of pathogenic infections are strep throat, tuberculosis, and malaria.

Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because an opportunistic infection is caused by a microorganism that normally does not cause disease in a healthy host, but can take advantage of a weakened immune system and cause serious illness. Opportunistic infections are common and often lifethreatening complications of HIV infection, as the virus destroys the CD4 cells that help fight infections. Examples of opportunistic infections are pneumocystis pneumonia, candidiasis, and toxoplasmosis.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect answer because a nosocomial infection is acquired in a health care setting, such as a hospital, clinic, or nursing home. Nosocomial infections are usually caused by microorganisms that are resistant to antibiotics and can spread easily among patients and staff. Examples of nosocomial infections are methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), and urinary tract infections.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect answer because a root cause infection is not a valid term in medical terminology. A root cause is the underlying factor or reason that leads to a problem or outcome. A root cause analysis is a process of identifying and addressing the root causes of a problem or event, such as an infection, to prevent recurrence and improve quality and safety.