An infection control nurse is teaching a class about the transmission of infectious agents. The nurse should include that which of the following diseases is transmitted via airborne transmission? (Select All that Apply.)

Choice A Reason:

The large intestine does not secrete enzymes to digest food. This function is primarily carried out by the stomach and small intestine. The large intestine’s main role is to absorb water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter.

Choice B Reason:

This is the correct answer. The large intestine absorbs water from the remaining indigestible food matter, which helps to form stool. This process is crucial for maintaining the body’s fluid balance and for the proper formation and excretion of feces.

Choice C Reason:

Preventing the reflux of food into the esophagus is a function of the lower esophageal sphincter, not the large intestine. The large intestine’s role is more focused on absorbing water and electrolytes and forming stool.

Choice D Reason:

The large intestine does not produce vitamin D. Vitamin D is primarily synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight and can also be obtained from certain foods and supplements. The large intestine does, however, play a role in the absorption of some vitamins produced by gut bacteria, such as vitamin K.

Choice A Reason: Light sensitivity

Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a common symptom of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. When an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause bleeding in the brain, leading to increased intracranial pressure and irritation of the meninges, which can result in sensitivity to light.

Choice B Reason: Loss of consciousness

Loss of consciousness is a critical symptom of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. The sudden increase in intracranial pressure from the bleeding can lead to a rapid decline in the patient’s level of consciousness. This symptom is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Choice C Reason: A dilated pupil

A dilated pupil can indicate increased intracranial pressure or direct pressure on the cranial nerves due to the bleeding from a ruptured aneurysm. This symptom is often associated with severe neurological impairment and requires urgent medical intervention.

Choice D Reason: Visual disturbances

Visual disturbances, such as blurred or double vision, can occur due to the pressure exerted by the bleeding on the optic nerves or other parts of the visual pathway. These disturbances are significant indicators of neurological compromise.

Choice E Reason: Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, which can result from a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. The irritation of the brain’s vomiting center due to the bleeding can lead to these symptoms.

Choice F: Numbness on one side of the face

Numbness on one side of the face is not typically a direct symptom of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. While neurological deficits can occur, numbness is more commonly associated with other types of strokes or localized nerve damage rather than the acute presentation of a ruptured aneurysm.