A nurse in an emergency department is assisting with admitting a client.

Exhibits

A nurse is caring for a client who has pneumonia. Select the 4 findings in the client's medical record that places them at risk for pneumonia.

A. Age: The client is 70 years old, which places them at a higher risk for pneumonia. Age is a significant risk factor because the immune system weakens as people get older, making it more difficult to fight off infections like pneumonia.

B. Fluid intake: The client reports decreased fluid intake due to throat pain. Inadequate hydration can result in thicker respiratory secretions, making it harder to clear the lungs and increasing the risk of developing or worsening pneumonia.

C. Influenza vaccine: The client has not received an annual influenza vaccination, which is a risk factor. Influenza can lead to secondary bacterial pneumonia or worsen respiratory conditions, particularly in older adults. Vaccination against influenza helps reduce this risk.

D. Level of consciousness: The client is lethargic and has difficulty answering questions due to shortness of breath. Altered level of consciousness can lead to reduced ability to protect the airway, increasing the risk of aspiration, which can lead to pneumonia.

E. Health history: The client has no significant medical history aside from the primary concern of pneumonia. While a lack of chronic conditions is generally a good sign, it does not contribute to an increased risk of pneumonia.

F. Smoking history: The client has never smoked, which reduces their risk for pneumonia. Smoking damages the respiratory tract and impairs the lung’s defense mechanisms, but this client does not have this risk factor.

G. Pneumococcal vaccine: The client has not received the pneumococcal vaccine, which is recommended for older adults to protect against pneumococcal pneumonia. Lack of vaccination increases the risk of acquiring pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.