A nurse is analyzing a client’s electrocardiogram (ECG) strip and identifies the following information: Heart rate: 92/min.

Rhythm: Irregular.

P wave: Unable to identify.

PR interval: Unable to measure. QRS duration: 0.10 seconds.

Based upon this information, the nurse should interpret the client’s rhythm as indicating which of the following?

Choice A rationale
Take temperature weekly. This statement is incorrect. Clients with neutropenia should monitor their temperature daily, not weekly, because they are at high risk for infections. A fever can be an early sign of infection, and prompt detection is crucial for timely treatment.
Choice B rationale
Perform mild exercise, such as gardening. This statement is incorrect. While mild exercise can be beneficial, activities like gardening can expose neutropenic clients to soil and plants that may harbor bacteria and fungi, increasing the risk of infection.
Choice C rationale

Avoid crowds. This statement is correct. Neutropenic clients are highly susceptible to infections due to their weakened immune systems. Avoiding crowded places reduces the risk of exposure to pathogens that can cause infections.
Choice D rationale
Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. This statement is incorrect. While fresh fruits and vegetables are generally healthy, they can harbor bacteria and other pathogens that pose a risk for neutropenic individuals. It is often recommended that neutropenic clients eat cooked or canned fruits and vegetables instead.

Choice A rationale
A room that is within view of the nurses’ station is not suitable for a client with active tuberculosis. This placement does not provide the necessary isolation to prevent the spread of the infection to other patients and staff. Tuberculosis is an airborne disease, and the client needs to be in a room that minimizes the risk of airborne transmission.
Choice B rationale
A room with another nonsurgical client is also inappropriate for a client with active tuberculosis. Placing the client with another patient increases the risk of transmission of the infection. Tuberculosis requires strict airborne precautions, and the client should be in a private room with appropriate ventilation.
Choice C rationale
A room in the ICU is not necessary unless the client requires intensive care for other reasons. The primary concern for a client with active tuberculosis is to prevent the spread of the infection, which can be effectively managed in a regular medical-surgical unit with proper isolation measures.
Choice D rationale
A room with air exhaust directly to the outdoor environment is the correct choice. This type of room, often referred to as a negative pressure room, ensures that air from the room does not flow to other parts of the facility, thereby preventing the spread of infectious airborne particles. This setup is essential for managing clients with active tuberculosis.