The nurse is caring for a 4-month-old infant in the emergency department. The nurse reviews the infant's medical record and assessment findings. Which of the following conditions should the nurse suspect, and what actions should the nurse take to address that condition, and what parameters should the nurse monitor to assess the infant's progress?
The nurse should suspect that the infant has
meningitis.
hydrocephalus.
intracranial hemorrhage.
sepsis.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Meningitis is a possible condition, as it is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by various microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The infant has many signs and symptoms of meningitis, such as fever, irritability, lethargy, bulging fontanel, and clear cerebrospinal fluid from the lumbar puncture.
Choice B reason: Hydrocephalus is not a likely condition, as it is an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which causes increased intracranial pressure and enlargement of the head. The infant has a bulging fontanel, which can indicate increased intracranial pressure, but not necessarily hydrocephalus. The infant does not have other signs of hydrocephalus, such as a rapidly increasing head circumference, prominent scalp veins, or sunset eyes.
Choice C reason: Intracranial hemorrhage is not a probable condition, as it is a bleeding within the skull, which can result from trauma, vascular malformation, or coagulation disorder. The infant has retinal hemorrhages, which can indicate intracranial hemorrhage, but not necessarily. The infant does not have other signs of intracranial hemorrhage, such as seizures, vomiting, or altered mental status.
Choice D reason: Sepsis is not a definite condition, as it is a systemic inflammatory response to an infection, which can cause organ dysfunction and shock. The infant has a fever, which can indicate sepsis, but not necessarily. The infant does not have other signs of sepsis, such as tachycardia, tachypnea, hypotension, or poor perfusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A protective environment is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who are immunocompromised and at high risk of infection from environmental sources, such as fungi or bacteria. It involves using a private room with positive air pressure, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration, and strict hand hygiene. It is not indicated for patients who have measles, as they are the source of infection, not the susceptible host.
Choice B reason: Airborne is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who have diseases that are transmitted by small droplets that can remain suspended in the air and travel over long distances, such as tuberculosis, chickenpox, or measles. It involves using a private room with negative air pressure, HEPA filtration, and respiratory protection for health care workers and visitors. It is the appropriate isolation precaution for patients who have measles, as it prevents the spread of the virus to others.
Choice C reason: Contact is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who have diseases that are transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the patient or their environment, such as Clostridioides difficile, scabies, or impetigo. It involves using a private room or cohorting with similar patients, wearing gloves and gowns, and using dedicated equipment. It is not indicated for patients who have measles, as the disease is not spread by contact.
Choice D reason: Droplet is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who have diseases that are transmitted by large droplets that are generated by coughing, sneezing, or talking, such as influenza, pertussis, or meningitis. It involves using a private room or cohorting with similar patients, wearing a surgical mask, and maintaining a distance of at least 3 feet from the patient. It is not indicated for patients who have measles, as the disease is spread by airborne transmission.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placing the client in a private room is not necessary for a client who has a high WBC count, unless they have other indications for isolation, such as an infectious disease. A high WBC count may indicate inflammation, infection, or other conditions that affect the immune system.
Choice B reason: Monitoring the client's temperature every 4 hr is an appropriate action for a nurse to take for a client who has a high WBC count. A fever is a common sign of infection or inflammation, and it may require further intervention, such as antibiotics or antipyretics.
Choice C reason: Administering an antihistamine as prescribed is not related to a high WBC count. Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions, which may cause a low WBC count due to the release of histamine from mast cells.
Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake is not specific to a high WBC count. Fluid intake should be based on the client's hydration status, urine output, and other factors. Increasing fluid intake may help flush out toxins or bacteria, but it is not a priority action for a client who has a high WBC count.
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