What are opportunistic infections associated with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: The client is in a private room is not an observation that requires further action by the nurse, because it is appropriate and desirable. The client with reduced immunity should be in a private room, as it can reduce the exposure to pathogens or allergens that may cause infection or inflammation. The client with reduced immunity has a weakened or impaired immune system, which makes them more susceptible and vulnerable to infection. The private room can also provide privacy, comfort, and security for the client.

Choice B reason: The client has a dedicated vital signs machine is not an observation that requires further action by the nurse, because it is appropriate and desirable. The client with reduced immunity should have a dedicated vital signs machine, as it can prevent the crosscontamination or transmission of pathogens or allergens that may cause infection or inflammation. The vital signs machine is a device that measures the blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and oxygen saturation of the client. The vital signs machine can be contaminated by the blood, body fluids, or secretions of the client or other clients, and can harbor bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The dedicated vital signs machine can also ensure the accuracy, consistency, and availability of the measurements for the client.

Choice C reason: The client has a vase of fresh flowers on the table is an observation that requires further action by the nurse, because it is inappropriate and undesirable. The client with reduced immunity should not have a vase of fresh flowers on the table, as it can increase the exposure to pathogens or allergens that may cause infection or inflammation. The fresh flowers are a source of mold, pollen, or insects, which can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory distress, or skin irritation. The fresh flowers can also contain bacteria, viruses, or fungi, which can infect the client through inhalation, ingestion, or contact. The vase of fresh flowers should be removed from the room and replaced with artificial flowers, pictures, or cards.

Choice D reason: There is hand sanitizer by the door is not an observation that requires further action by the nurse, because it is appropriate and desirable. The client with reduced immunity should have hand sanitizer by the door, as it can promote the hand hygiene and infection prevention of the client and others. Hand sanitizer is a product that contains alcohol or other agents that can kill or reduce the number of pathogens or allergens that may cause infection or inflammation. Hand sanitizer should be used by the client, the staff, and the visitors before and after entering or leaving the room, or after touching any objects or surfaces in the room.

Choice A reason: This is the highest risk client because surgery can cause trauma, blood loss, and infection, which can weaken the immune system and increase the susceptibility to complications. The immune system is the body's defense mechanism that protects against foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Surgery can damage the skin and tissues, which are the first line of defense, and cause inflammation, which can impair the function of the white blood cells, which are the second line of defense. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, wound healing, and signs of infection and administer antibiotics, fluids, and pain medication as ordered.

Choice B reason: This is not the highest risk client, but it is a moderate risk client because extreme anxiety can cause stress, which can affect the immune system and increase the vulnerability to illness. Stress is the body's response to a perceived threat or challenge, which can activate the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamicpituitaryadrenal (HPA) axis. Stress can cause the release of hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can suppress the immune system and reduce the production and activity of the white blood cells. The nurse should assess the client's anxiety level and provide coping strategies, such as relaxation, breathing, or counseling.

Choice C reason: This is not the highest risk client, but it is a low risk client because awaiting surgery can cause anxiety, which can affect the immune system and increase the vulnerability to illness. However, the client's anxiety level may not be as high as the client with extreme anxiety, and the client's immune system may not be as compromised as the client who has just had surgery. The nurse should assess the client's anxiety level and provide education, reassurance, and support.

Choice D reason: This is not the highest risk client, but it is a low risk client because delivering a baby can cause blood loss, hormonal changes, and fatigue, which can affect the immune system and increase the risk of infection. However, the client's immune system may not be as compromised as the client who has just had surgery, and the client may have some protection from the antibodies that are passed from the mother to the baby through the placenta and breast milk. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, lochia, and signs of infection and provide hygiene, nutrition, and rest.