The facility education nurse is providing a group of new nurses education regarding weaponized biological threats. When discussing anthrax, which of the following should be included as portals of entry? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

Choice A reason: The integumentary system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can enter through cuts or abrasions on the skin. This is called cutaneous anthrax, and it is the most common and least deadly form of anthrax infection.

Choice B reason: The endocrine system is not a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria do not affect the glands or hormones of the body. The endocrine system is mainly involved in regulating metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction.

Choice C reason: The central nervous system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can spread to the brain and spinal cord from other parts of the body. This is called meningeal anthrax, and it is a rare and fatal complication of anthrax infection.

Choice D reason: The renal system is not a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria do not infect the kidneys or urinary tract. The renal system is mainly involved in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood.

Choice E reason: The respiratory system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs. This is called inhalation anthrax, and it is the most deadly form of anthrax infection.

Choice A reason: Hypertension is a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure, as it reflects the body's attempt to maintain adequate cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) and blood flow to the brain. CPP is the difference between the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and the intracranial pressure (ICP). When ICP rises, MAP must also rise to keep CPP constant and prevent cerebral ischemia. Hypertension is part of the Cushing's triad, which is a classic sign of increased ICP that also includes bradycardia and irregular respirations.

Choice B reason: Tinnitus is not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure, as it does not affect the auditory system. Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears that can be caused by various factors, such as ear infections, noise exposure, medications, or aging. Tinnitus may be associated with other neurological conditions, such as Meniere's disease, acoustic neuroma, or multiple sclerosis, but not with increased ICP.

Choice C reason: Hypotension is not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure, as it indicates a decrease in MAP and CPP, which can lead to cerebral ischemia and infarction. Hypotension can be caused by various factors, such as blood loss, dehydration, shock, or medications. Hypotension may worsen the outcome of increased ICP by reducing the oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain.

Choice D reason: Tachycardia is not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure, as it contradicts Cushing's triad. Tachycardia is an increase in heart rate that can be caused by various factors, such as anxiety, pain, fever, dehydration, or medications. Tachycardia may increase the oxygen demand and metabolic rate of the brain, which can exacerbate the effects of increased ICP.