A patient with right lower-lobe pneumonia has been treated with IV antibiotics for 3 days. Which assessment data obtained by the nurse indicates that the treatment is effective?
The patient's white blood cell (WBC) count is 6000/μL.
Bronchial breath sounds are heard at the right base.
Increased tactile fremitus is palpable over the right chest.
The patient coughs up small amounts of green mucus.
The Correct Answer is A
A. A decrease in the white blood cell count toward normal levels indicates that the infection is responding to antibiotic treatment. A WBC count of 6000/μL is within the normal range for adults (usually 4,000–11,000/μL), which suggests that the body is no longer fighting a significant infection.
B. Bronchial breath sounds heard at the right base indicate consolidation, a sign of ongoing pneumonia or unresolved infection. This would suggest that the infection is not yet controlled, rather than an improvement.
C. Increased tactile fremitus indicates consolidation, which is commonly seen in pneumonia. It suggests that the infection is still present and has not resolved with treatment.
D. Green mucus can indicate the presence of purulent sputum and ongoing infection. Although the color of the mucus may change during the course of pneumonia, the presence of green mucus does not confirm that the infection is resolving, especially after three days of antibiotics.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Cytotec does not enhance the pain-relieving effects of NSAIDs. Instead, it works to protect the stomach lining from the harmful effects of NSAIDs, which can cause gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding.
B. Misoprostol (Cytotec) is used to protect the stomach lining from damage caused by NSAIDs, which can increase the production of stomach acid and decrease the protective mucus lining. Cytotec helps prevent gastric ulcers and other GI complications associated with long-term NSAID use.
C. Cytotec does not directly decrease inflammation in the joints. NSAIDs are the primary medications for reducing joint inflammation in conditions like arthritis.
D. Cytotec does not reduce the risk of developing blood clots from NSAIDs. It is primarily used for its protective effect on the gastrointestinal system.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Administering anticoagulant medications is contraindicated in patients with bleeding esophageal varices. Anticoagulants could worsen bleeding and complicate the condition further. The goal in managing esophageal varices is to control the bleeding, not to increase the risk of bleeding.
B. Monitoring vital signs frequently is critical in patients with bleeding esophageal varices, as they are at risk for hypovolemic shock. Vital signs should be monitored closely to assess for signs of bleeding, hemodynamic instability, and response to interventions. Typically, more frequent monitoring (every 15 minutes initially, then every hour) is indicated, not just every 4 hours.
C. A high-fiber diet is not appropriate for patients with bleeding esophageal varices. This can increase intra-abdominal pressure and may worsen bleeding. The diet should be tailored to the patient's needs, typically involving low-residue or soft foods depending on their condition.
D. Assisting with the insertion and removal of the balloon tamponade device should be done by a skilled provider, not the nurse. The nurse's role involves monitoring for complications, ensuring proper positioning, and assessing the patient's response to treatment.
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