A client presents to the emergency department with muscle aches, headache, fever, and describes a recent loss of taste and smell.
The nurse obtains a nasal swab for COVID-19 testing. Which action is most important for the nurse to take?
Teach the client to wear a mask, hand wash, and social distance to prevent spreading the virus.
Isolate the client from other clients, family, and healthcare workers not wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
Report the COVID-19 result to the local health department according to Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.
Counsel family members to monitor for illness symptoms for 2 weeks after last contact with patient.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
While teaching the client about infection prevention measures is important, it is not the most immediate priority in this situation. The client is already potentially contagious, and these measures may not be sufficient to prevent transmission if the client is not properly isolated.
It's crucial to remember that the client may be experiencing cognitive impairment due to illness, making it harder to fully comprehend and adhere to instructions.
Additionally, some clients may not have access to or be able to afford masks and hand sanitizer, potentially hindering compliance with these measures.
Choice B rationale:
Isolating the client is the most critical action to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to others. This includes separating the client from other patients, family members, and healthcare workers who are not wearing proper PPE.
PPE, such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, creates a barrier between the healthcare worker and the client, minimizing the risk of transmission via direct contact or droplets.
Proper isolation techniques include placing the client in a designated negative-pressure isolation room, if available, or designating a separate area within a multi-bed room.
It's essential to restrict the client's movement within the healthcare facility and limit visitors to essential personnel only.
Choice C rationale:
Reporting the COVID-19 result to the local health department is important for tracking and managing the spread of the virus; however, it is not the most immediate priority in this situation.
The priority is to prevent further transmission by isolating the client.
Choice D rationale:
Counseling family members to monitor for symptoms is important, but it is not the most immediate priority in this situation. The priority is to prevent transmission by isolating the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Total protein is a measure of the overall protein content in the blood. It includes albumin and globulin.
While it can be helpful in assessing nutritional status and liver function, it is not directly relevant to the client's current symptoms of pallor and fatigue.
Decreased total protein can indicate malnutrition or liver disease, but these conditions would not typically cause the specific symptoms of pallor and fatigue.
Therefore, total protein is not the most important laboratory value to review in this case.
Choice B rationale:
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Paleness (pallor) is a common sign of anemia, which is a condition characterized by a low hemoglobin level. Fatigue is also a common symptom of anemia, as the body's tissues are not receiving enough oxygen.
Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can lead to anemia. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to review the client's hemoglobin level to assess for potential anemia.

Choice C rationale:
Glucose is a type of sugar that the body uses for energy.
Abnormal glucose levels can cause various symptoms, including fatigue. However, glucose levels would not typically cause pallor.
Additionally, there is no indication in the question stem that the client has any risk factors for diabetes or other disorders that affect glucose metabolism.
Therefore, glucose is not the most likely cause of the client's symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance in the body.
Abnormal sodium levels can cause various symptoms, including fatigue and weakness. However, sodium levels would not typically cause pallor.
Additionally, there is no indication in the question stem that the client has any risk factors for electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, sodium is not the most likely cause of the client's symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While some individuals with Crohn's disease may find that avoiding gluten improves their symptoms, this is not a universal recommendation.
Gluten restriction is more often indicated for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
It's important to individualize dietary recommendations based on personal triggers and sensitivities.
Choice B rationale:
An elimination diet is a systematic approach to identifying foods that may trigger or worsen Crohn's disease symptoms.
It involves removing certain foods from the diet for a period of time, typically 2-4 weeks, and then gradually reintroducing them one at a time to observe any reactions.
This process can help individuals pinpoint specific foods that contribute to their symptoms and make informed dietary choices to manage their condition.
Choice C rationale:
There is no evidence to support a general restriction of calcium and iron in individuals with Crohn's disease.
In fact, these nutrients are essential for overall health and should be consumed in adequate amounts unless a specific deficiency or intolerance is identified.
Restriction of these nutrients could lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Choice D rationale:
Fluid restriction is not a primary dietary limitation for individuals with Crohn's disease.
Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, especially during flares when fluid loss through diarrhea may be increased.
Restricting fluids could potentially lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
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