A nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB) and prescribed triple antibiotic therapy. The nurse should recognize that which clinical sign indicates inadequate drug therapy after 2 months of treatment?

Choice A rationale
While it’s possible for a virus to reactivate in the body, this is not typically the case with the common cold. The common cold is a viral infection primarily in the nose, with most people recovering in seven to ten days.
Choice B rationale
While it’s true that cold season tends to end as the weather warms up, this doesn’t address the patient’s concern about their repeated colds. It’s important to note that colds are caused by viruses, which can be spread year-round, although they are more common in the colder months.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct answer. The common cold is indeed a virus that can be spread by a person two days before they experience any symptoms. This means that people can spread the virus before they know they’re sick, which can make it difficult to avoid catching a cold.
Choice D rationale
While wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of viruses, it’s not typically necessary for someone who is simply sensitive to colds. Masks are more commonly recommended for people who are already sick to prevent them from spreading the virus, or for people who are at high risk of serious complications from the cold.

Choice A rationale
Thinking critically is a fundamental skill in nursing. It involves the ability to question, analyze, and evaluate care processes and outcomes. Critical thinking allows nurses to make informed decisions, prioritize tasks, and solve problems efficiently and effectively, which ultimately leads to safe, quality, patient-centered care.
Choice B rationale
Evaluating outcomes at the start of the shift is not typically recommended. Instead, continuous evaluation throughout the shift is more beneficial. This allows for timely interventions and adjustments to the care plan as needed.
Choice C rationale
Communication is a vital aspect of patient-centered care. Effective communication ensures that all members of the healthcare team, including the patient, are informed about the patient’s care plan. This promotes collaboration, improves patient outcomes, and enhances patient satisfaction.
Choice D rationale
Planning and reporting outcomes are crucial components of the nursing process. They enable the tracking of progress, facilitate communication among healthcare providers, and ensure that care is aligned with the patient’s goals.
Choice E rationale
Evaluating outcomes at the end of the shift is important as it provides an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of interventions, make necessary adjustments to the care plan, and ensure continuity of care.