A nurse is caring for a client who reports sneezing, productive cough, muscle aches, headache, and fever that has progressed over the last 4 days. Which of the following stages of infection is the client likely experiencing?

The first step in the inflammatory response is the recognition of harmful stimuli by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) on the surfaces of various cells, including immune cells and non-immune cells. PRRs recognize specific patterns associated with pathogens, damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), among others. This recognition leads to the activation of signaling pathways that promote the recruitment and activation of immune cells and the release of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and chemokines.

Once the PRRs recognize the harmful stimuli, inflammatory cells are activated, including neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells. These cells then release inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein, which promote the recruitment and activation of more immune cells and further amplify the inflammatory response. Inflammatory pathways are also triggered, leading to the production of various inflammatory mediators and the activation of transcription factors that regulate the expression of genes involved in the inflammatory response.

1. Remove protective gown before removing gloves.

When caring for a client with Clostridium Difficile, it is important to follow strict contact precautions to prevent the spread of the bacteria. The nurse should remove the protective gown before removing gloves to avoid contaminating the gown with any bacteria that may be on the gloves. This helps to minimize the risk of spreading the bacteria to other clients or healthcare workers.

1. Shake bed linens before placing them in a linen bag.

Shaking bed linens can cause any bacteria that may be on them to become airborne, increasing the risk of spreading the bacteria to other surfaces. Instead, bed linens should be rolled up and placed directly into a linen bag without shaking them.

1. Use an electronic thermometer to take the client's temperature.

An electronic thermometer is preferred when taking the temperature of a client with Clostridium Difficile because it can be easily disinfected between uses, reducing the risk of spreading the bacteria.

1. Remove protective gloves when leaving the client's room.

Protective gloves should be removed before leaving the client's room to avoid contaminating other surfaces or spreading the bacteria to other clients or healthcare workers.