A nurse is assessing a sedated client whose respiratory rate has fallen below 10 respirations per minute.
The nurse identifies this condition as what?

The correct answer is C. Tuberculosis.

Choice A rationale:

Scabies is a skin infestation caused by mites, and it does not require airborne precautions. Standard precautions, such as gloves and hand hygiene, are sufficient.

Choice B rationale:

Mycoplasmal pneumonia is typically spread through droplets, and a regular surgical mask is usually adequate for protection.

Choice C rationale:

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne disease, and healthcare workers need to wear an N95 respirator to protect themselves from inhaling the bacteria.

Choice D rationale:

Scarlet fever is spread through respiratory droplets, but it does not require airborne precautions. Standard precautions are usually enough.

Choice A rationale:

Using a fire extinguisher should not be the nurse's first action in this situation. The nurse's priority is to ensure the safety of the clients and staff in the vicinity. Attempting to use a fire extinguisher might not be effective and can potentially cause harm, especially if the fire spreads quickly.

Choice B rationale:

Activating the fire alarm is the nurse's priority in this situation. By activating the fire alarm, the nurse can alert everyone in the facility about the fire, ensuring that people are aware and can evacuate safely. This action initiates the facility's fire response protocol, leading to a quicker and organized response to the emergency.

Choice C rationale:

Moving clients to safety is important, but it is not the nurse's immediate priority in this situation. Activating the fire alarm should be done first to ensure that everyone in the facility is aware of the danger, and then the nurse can assist in moving clients to safety if necessary.