A nurse is caring for a client who suspects recent exposure to inhalation anthrax. Which of the following findings indicate possible exposure?
Vesicles on the skin
Respiratory failure
Sloughing of skin
Flu-like symptoms
The Correct Answer is B
Choice a) is incorrect because vesicles on the skin are a sign of cutaneous anthrax, not inhalation anthrax. Cutaneous anthrax is caused by direct contact with anthrax spores through a break in the skin. It causes a painless, black, necrotic lesion on the affected area.
Choice b) is correct because respiratory failure is a sign of inhalation anthrax, which is the most deadly form of anthrax. Inhalation anthrax is caused by breathing in anthrax spores that enter the lungs and spread to the bloodstream. It causes severe breathing problems, chest pain, shock, and death.
Choice c) is incorrect because sloughing of skin is a sign of necrotizing fasciitis, not inhalation anthrax. Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare bacterial infection that destroys the soft tissue under the skin. It causes severe pain, swelling, redness, blisters, and gangrene.
Choice d) is incorrect because flu-like symptoms are not specific to inhalation anthrax. Flu-like symptoms can be caused by many other conditions, such as influenza, common cold, or COVID-19. Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, and muscle aches.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice a) is incorrect because troponin is not an enzyme, but a protein. Enzymes are molecules that speed up chemical reactions in the body. Troponin does not have this function.
Choice b) is correct because troponin is a protein that binds to calcium and regulates the contraction of heart muscle fibers. When the heart muscle is injured, such as in a myocardial infarction, troponin leaks into the bloodstream and can be detected by a blood test. The higher the level of troponin, the more severe the damage to the heart.
Choice c) is incorrect because troponin does not help transport oxygen throughout the body. That function is performed by hemoglobin, which is a protein found in red blood cells.
Choice d) is incorrect because troponin is not a lipid, but a protein. Lipids are fats that are used for energy storage and cell membrane formation. Troponin does not have these roles.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is: B. Initiate oxygen therapy.
Choice A reason:
Attaching the leads for a 12-lead ECG is crucial for diagnosing a myocardial infarction. However, it is not the first priority. Ensuring the patient receives adequate oxygen is more critical to prevent further myocardial damage. The ECG can be performed immediately after oxygen therapy is initiated to confirm the diagnosis and guide further treatment.
Choice B reason:
Initiating oxygen therapy is the first priority because it ensures that the heart muscle receives adequate oxygen, which is essential to prevent further damage during a myocardial infarction. Oxygen therapy helps to maintain tissue oxygenation and can reduce the extent of myocardial injury. This immediate intervention is vital to stabilize the patient and improve outcomes.
Choice C reason:
Inserting the IV catheter is important for administering medications and fluids. However, it is not the first step. Oxygen therapy takes precedence to ensure the heart and other vital organs receive sufficient oxygen. Once oxygen is administered, IV access can be established to facilitate further treatment.
Choice D reason:
Obtaining a blood sample is necessary for confirming the diagnosis and assessing cardiac markers. However, it is not the immediate priority. Ensuring the patient is oxygenated is more urgent to prevent further myocardial damage. Blood samples can be drawn after oxygen therapy is initiated.
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