The nurse is preparing a teaching plan for a group of clients who were found to be HIV positive within the last year. Members of the group express an interest in learning about the pathology of AIDS.
The nurse should explain that HIV acts in which way to suppress the immune system?
Proliferation of suppressor T-cells.
Deficiency of cytotoxic T-cells.
Increase in B-lymphocytes and IgM.
Destruction of helper T-cells and CD4 cells.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Incorrect. Suppressor T-cells (also known as regulatory T-cells) play a role in regulating the immune response, but their proliferation is not the primary mechanism by which HIV suppresses the immune system. In fact, HIV can disrupt the function of suppressor T-cells, leading to an impaired ability to control immune responses.
Choice B rationale:
Incorrect. Cytotoxic T-cells (also known as CD8+ T-cells) are important for killing infected cells, but their deficiency is not the direct cause of immune suppression in HIV. However, HIV can indirectly lead to a deficiency of cytotoxic T-cells by disrupting their production and function.
Choice C rationale:
Incorrect. B-lymphocytes produce antibodies, and IgM is an early antibody produced in response to infection. However, an increase in B-lymphocytes and IgM is not characteristic of HIV infection. In fact, HIV can impair B-cell function, leading to decreased antibody production.
Choice D rationale:
Correct. HIV primarily targets and destroys helper T-cells (also known as CD4+ T-cells). These cells play a crucial role in coordinating the immune response by activating other immune cells, such as cytotoxic T-cells and B-cells. The depletion of helper T-cells leads to a progressive weakening of the immune system, rendering the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections and cancers.
Specific mechanisms of CD4+ T-cell destruction by HIV:
Direct infection and lysis: HIV can directly infect CD4+ T-cells and replicate within them, eventually leading to the death of the infected cells.
CD4+ T-cell apoptosis: HIV can induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in CD4+ T-cells through various mechanisms, including the activation of pro-apoptotic pathways and the disruption of anti-apoptotic signals.
Immune dysregulation: HIV infection can also dysregulate the immune system, leading to chronic inflammation and immune activation. This can further contribute to CD4+ T-cell depletion and dysfunction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The most likely diagnosis for this client isB. Pulmonary embolism and postpartum hemorrhage.
Here’s why:
- Postpartum Hemorrhage:
- The client has a large amount of lochia rubra, indicating significant blood loss.
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are low (7.5 g/dL and 22%, respectively), which is consistent with significant blood loss.
- Symptoms like feeling lightheaded, pale appearance, and cool, clammy skin further support this diagnosis.
- Pulmonary Embolism:
- The client is experiencing shortness of breath, using accessory muscles to breathe, and has an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air.
- Elevated D-dimer levels (1.5 µg/mL) suggest the presence of a clot.
- Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) results show a low PaO2 (60 mmHg) and a slightly acidic pH (7.32), which can be seen in pulmonary embolism.
- The client reports a feeling of tightness in her chest and has a rapid heart rate (120 beats per minute), which are also indicative of a pulmonary embolism.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While teaching the client about infection prevention measures is important, it is not the most crucial action in this situation. The client is already exhibiting symptoms and has potentially been spreading the virus.
Focusing on isolation at this point is a more effective way to prevent further transmission.
Additionally, the client may be too ill to fully comprehend or adhere to instructions regarding masks, handwashing, and social distancing.
Choice B rationale:
Isolation is the most essential action to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to others. This is because:
COVID-19 is highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Isolation physically separates the infected person from others, reducing the risk of transmission.
Proper PPE, such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, creates a barrier between the healthcare worker and the infectious droplets, further minimizing the risk of spread.
Choice C rationale:
Reporting the COVID-19 result to the local health department is important for tracking and managing the spread of the virus. However, it is not as immediate a priority as isolating the client to prevent further transmission.
Choice D rationale:
Counseling family members about monitoring for symptoms is also important for early identification and containment of potential cases. However, it does not directly address the immediate risk of transmission from the actively symptomatic client.
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