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.)
Botulism is acquired through direct contact with an infected person.
Notify the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when more than three cases are confirmed.
Botulism can produce paralysis within 12 to 72 hours following exposure.
Vomiting and diarrhea are expected findings following exposure.
Botulism is a toxin found in castor beans.
Correct Answer : C
Choice A reason: Botulism is Acquired Through Direct Contact with an Infected Person
Botulism is not acquired through direct contact with an infected person. It is caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The most common forms of botulism are foodborne, wound, and infant botulism. Foodborne botulism occurs when a person ingests food containing the toxin, while wound botulism occurs when the bacteria infect a wound and produce the toxin. Infant botulism occurs when infants ingest spores of the bacteria, which then grow and produce the toxin in their intestines.
Choice B reason: Notify the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) When More Than Three Cases Are Confirmed
While notifying the CDC is crucial in the event of a botulism outbreak, the specific threshold for notification can vary. Generally, any suspected case of botulism should be reported to public health authorities immediately due to the severity of the disease and the potential for outbreaks. The CDC provides guidelines for reporting and managing botulism cases.
Choice C reason: Botulism Can Produce Paralysis Within 12 to 72 Hours Following Exposure
Botulism can indeed produce paralysis within 12 to 72 hours following exposure. The toxin affects the nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis. Early symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and dry mouth, followed by more severe symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness. If left untreated, botulism can lead to respiratory failure and death.
Choice D reason: Vomiting and Diarrhea Are Expected Findings Following Exposure
Vomiting and diarrhea are not typical symptoms of botulism. The primary symptoms are related to muscle paralysis and neurological impairment. Gastrointestinal symptoms may occur in some cases of foodborne botulism, but they are not the hallmark signs of the disease.
Choice E reason: Botulism is a Toxin Found in Castor Beans
Botulism is not a toxin found in castor beans. The toxin found in castor beans is ricin, which is a different type of bioterrorism agent. Botulism is caused by the botulinum toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A sudden decrease in abdominal pain can indicate that the appendix has perforated. When the appendix bursts, the pressure is relieved, leading to a temporary reduction in pain. However, this is quickly followed by severe pain and signs of peritonitis, such as a rigid abdomen and high fever.
Choice B reason:
The absence of Rovsing’s sign is not a specific indicator of a perforated appendix. Rovsing’s sign is a clinical test used to diagnose appendicitis, where pain is elicited in the right lower quadrant when the left lower quadrant is palpated. Its absence does not necessarily indicate perforation.
Choice C reason:
A low-grade fever is a common symptom of appendicitis but does not specifically indicate perforation. A perforated appendix typically leads to a high fever due to the spread of infection within the abdomen.
Choice D reason:
A rigid abdomen is a sign of peritonitis, which can occur after the appendix has perforated. While this is an important symptom, the sudden decrease in pain followed by severe symptoms is more indicative of perforation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: You Can Expect Swelling of the Ankles While Taking This Medication
Swelling of the ankles, or peripheral edema, is a known side effect of verapamil. This calcium channel blocker can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the lower extremities. While this is a common side effect, it is not an instruction that the nurse should include in discharge teaching. Instead, the nurse should inform the client to report any significant swelling to their healthcare provider.
Choice B reason: Do Not Take This Medication on an Empty Stomach
Verapamil can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. Therefore, the instruction to avoid taking it on an empty stomach is not strictly necessary. The nurse should advise the client to follow their healthcare provider’s specific instructions regarding medication administration.
Choice C reason: Limit Your Fluid Intake to Meal Times
Limiting fluid intake to meal times is not a standard recommendation for clients taking verapamil. Adequate hydration is important for overall health, and there is no specific reason to restrict fluid intake while on this medication. The nurse should encourage the client to maintain a balanced fluid intake throughout the day.
Choice D reason: Increase Your Daily Intake of Dietary Fiber
Increasing daily intake of dietary fiber is a beneficial instruction for clients taking verapamil. Verapamil can cause constipation as a side effect, and a high-fiber diet can help mitigate this issue. Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can promote regular bowel movements and improve digestive health.
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