A nurse is preparing a response protocol for botulism as a bioterrorism agent. The nurse should prepare the protocol based on which of the following information? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Hypophosphatemia

Hypophosphatemia, or low phosphate levels, is not typically associated with prerenal acute kidney injury (AKI). Prerenal AKI is primarily related to decreased blood flow to the kidneys, which does not directly affect phosphate levels. Hypophosphatemia is more commonly seen in conditions such as refeeding syndrome, chronic alcoholism, and certain endocrine disorders.

Choice B reason: Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia, or elevated potassium levels, is a common electrolyte imbalance in prerenal acute kidney injury (AKI). When kidney function is impaired, the kidneys are less able to excrete potassium, leading to its accumulation in the blood. This can result in dangerous cardiac arrhythmias and requires prompt management. Hyperkalemia is often seen in various types of AKI, including prerenal, intrinsic, and postrenal causes.

Choice C reason: Hypercalcemia

Hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels, is not typically associated with prerenal AKI. In fact, AKI can sometimes lead to hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) due to impaired kidney function affecting calcium and phosphate metabolism. Hypercalcemia is more commonly associated with conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, malignancies, and certain medications.

Choice D reason: Hypernatremia

Hypernatremia, or high sodium levels, is also not a typical finding in prerenal AKI. Prerenal AKI is usually characterized by volume depletion, which can lead to hyponatremia (low sodium levels) due to the body’s attempt to retain water and maintain blood pressure. Hypernatremia is more commonly seen in conditions involving excessive water loss or inadequate water intake.

Choice A reason: Flu-like symptoms and night sweats

The initial symptoms of HIV infection often resemble those of the flu. These symptoms, known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) or primary HIV infection, typically occur within 2 to 4 weeks after the virus enters the body. Common symptoms include fever, chills, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. These symptoms are the body’s natural response to the virus and indicate that the immune system is reacting to the infection. Night sweats, in particular, are a common symptom during the early stages of HIV infection.

Choice B reason: Fungal and bacterial infections

Fungal and bacterial infections are more commonly associated with later stages of HIV infection, particularly when the immune system has been significantly weakened. As HIV progresses and the immune system deteriorates, individuals become more susceptible to opportunistic infections, which are infections that occur more frequently and are more severe in people with weakened immune systems. These infections are not typically seen in the initial stages of HIV infection.

Choice C reason: Pneumocystis lung infection

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a serious infection that occurs in people with weakened immune systems, including those with advanced HIV/AIDS. It is caused by the fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii. PCP is not an initial symptom of HIV infection but rather a complication that can arise when the immune system is severely compromised. This infection is more indicative of the later stages of HIV, particularly when the CD4 cell count drops significantly.

Choice D reason: Kaposi’s sarcoma

Kaposi’s sarcoma is a type of cancer that forms in the lining of blood and lymph vessels. It is caused by the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) and is commonly associated with advanced HIV infection or AIDS. Kaposi’s sarcoma presents as purple, red, or brown blotches or tumors on the skin and can also affect internal organs. This condition is not an initial symptom of HIV infection but rather a manifestation of severe immune system damage in the later stages of the disease.