Exam 3 rnsg 1538 immunity

A 46-year-old male patient with dermatomyositis is receiving long-term prednisone (Deltasone) therapy.Which assessment finding by the nurse is most important to report to the health care provider? a. The blood glucose is 112 mg/dL. b. The patient has painful hematuria. c. Acne is noted on the patients face. d. The patient has an increased appetite

ANS: B Corticosteroid use is associated with an increased risk for infection, so the nurse should report the urinary tract symptoms immediately to the health care provider. The increase in blood glucose, increased appetite, and acne are also adverse effects of corticosteroid use but do not need diagnosis and treatment as rapidly as the probable urinary tract infection.

A patient who is anxious and has difficulty breathing seeks treatment after being stung by a wasp. What is the nurses priority action? a. Have the patient lie down. b. Assess the patients airway. c. Administer high-flow oxygen. d. Remove the stinger from the site.

ANS: B The initial action with any patient with difficulty breathing is to assess and maintain the airway. The other actions also are part of the emergency management protocol for anaphylaxis, but the priority is airway maintenance

The nurse suggests that a patient recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) plan to start each day with a. a warm bath followed by a short rest. b. a short routine of isometric exercises. c. active range-of-motion (ROM) exercises. d. stretching exercises to relieve joint stiffness

ANS: A Taking a warm shower or bath is recommended to relieve joint stiffness, which is worse in the morning.Isometric exercises would place stress on joints and would not be recommended. Stretching and ROM should be done later in the day, when joint stiffness is decreased.

A 72-year-old male patient with dehydration caused by an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis is receiving 5%dextrose in normal saline at 125 mL/hour. Which assessment finding by the nurse is most important to report to the health care provider? a. Patient has not voided for the last 4 hours. b. Skin is dry with poor turgor on all extremities. c. Crackles are heard halfway up the posterior chest. d. Patient has had 5 loose stools over the last 6 hours.

ANS: C The presence of crackles in an older patient receiving IV fluids at a high rate suggests volume overload and a need to reduce the rate of the IV infusion. The other data will also be reported, but are consistent with the patients age and diagnosis and do not require a change in the prescribed treatment.

A 37-year-old patient with 2 school-age children who has recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) tells the nurse that home life is very stressful. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate? a. Tell me more about situations that are causing you stress. b. You need to see a family therapist for some help with stress. c. Your family should understand the impact of your rheumatoid arthritis. d. Perhaps it would be helpful for your family to be involved in a support group.

ANS: A The initial action by the nurse should be further assessment. The other three responses might be appropriate based on the information the nurse obtains with further assessment.

The nurse assesses the patient and notes all of the following. Which of the findings indicate systemic manifestations of inflammation? (Select all that apply.) a. Oral temperature 38.6 C/101.5 F b. Thick, green nasal discharge c. Patient complaint of pain at 6 on a 0-10 scale on palpation of frontal and maxillary sinuses d. WBC 20 cells/McL 109/L e. Patient reports, "I'm tired all the time. I haven't felt like myself in days."

ANS: A, D, E Systemic manifestations of inflammatory response include elevated temperature, leukocytosis, and malaise and fatigue. Purulent exudates and pain are both considered local manifestations of inflammation.

The nurse is preparing to administer medications to a patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).The nurse should explain which goal of treatment to the patient? a. Eradicate the disease b. Enhance immune response c. Control inflammation d. Manage pain

ANS: C Medications for RA are intended to control the inflammation that results from the body's hyperimmune response. Autoimmune diseases like RA are chronic and currently have no curative treatments. Autoimmune diseases like RA are caused by hyperimmune response.The immune system needs to be suppressed, not enhanced. While the medications used for RA might help with pain management, the goal of medication intervention is to manage the inflammation.

The home health nurse is doing a follow-up visit to a 41-year-old patient with recently diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which assessment made by the nurse indicates that more patient teaching is needed? a. The patient takes a 2-hour nap each day. b. The patient has been taking 16 aspirins daily. c. The patient sits on a stool while preparing meals. d. The patient sleeps with two pillows under the head.

ANS: D The joints should be maintained in an extended position to avoid contractures, so patients should use a small,flat pillow for sleeping. The other information is appropriate for a patient with RA and indicates that teaching has been effective

Which assessment information obtained by the nurse indicates that a patient with an exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is experiencing a side effect of prednisone (Deltasone)? a. The patient has joint pain and stiffness. b. The patients blood glucose is 165 mg/dL. c. The patient has experienced a recent 5-pound weight loss. d. The patients erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) has increased

ANS: B Corticosteroids have the potential to cause diabetes mellitus. The finding of an elevated blood glucose reflects this side effect of prednisone. Corticosteroids increase appetite and lead to weight gain. An elevated ESR and no improvement in symptoms would indicate that the prednisone was not effective but would not be side effects of the medication

Which result for a 30-year-old patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider? a. Decreased C-reactive protein (CRP) b. Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) c. Positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA) d. Positive lupus erythematosus cell prep

ANS: B The elevated BUN and creatinine levels indicate possible lupus nephritis and a need for a change in therapy to avoid further renal damage. The positive lupus erythematosus (LE) cell prep and ANA would be expected in a patient with SLE. A drop in CRP shows an improvement in the inflammatory process.

Which nursing action will be included in the plan of care for a 27-year-old male patient with bowel irregularity and a new diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? a. Encourage the patient to express concerns and ask questions about IBS. b. Suggest that the patient increase the intake of milk and other dairy products. c. Educate the patient about the use of alosetron (Lotronex) to reduce symptoms. d. Teach the patient to avoid using nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

ANS: A Because psychologic and emotional factors can affect the symptoms for IBS, encouraging the patient to discuss emotions and ask questions is an important intervention. Alosetron has serious side effects, and is used only for female patients who have not responded to other therapies. Although yogurt may be beneficial, milk is avoided because lactose intolerance can contribute to symptoms in some patients. NSAIDs can be used by patients with IBS.

A 31-year-old woman who has multiple sclerosis (MS) asks the nurse about risks associated with pregnancy. Which response by the nurse is accurate? a. MS symptoms may be worse after the pregnancy. b. Women with MS frequently have premature labor. c. MS is associated with an increased risk for congenital defects. d. Symptoms of MS are likely to become worse during pregnancy

ANS: A During the postpartum period, women with MS are at greater risk for exacerbation of symptoms. There is no increased risk for congenital defects in infants born of mothers with MS. Symptoms of MS may improve during pregnancy. Onset of labor is not affected by MS

A 51-year-old male patient has a new diagnosis of Crohns disease after having frequent diarrhea and a weight loss of 10 pounds (4.5 kg) over 2 months. The nurse will plan to teach about a. medication use. b. fluid restriction. c. enteral nutrition. d. activity restrictions.

ANS: A Medications are used to induce and maintain remission in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).Decreased activity level is indicated only if the patient has severe fatigue and weakness. Fluids are needed to prevent dehydration. There is no advantage to enteral feedings

An older patient is receiving standard multidrug therapy for tuberculosis (TB). The nurse should notify the health care provider if the patient exhibits which finding?a. Yellow-tinged skin b. Orange-colored sputum c. Thickening of the fingernails d. Difficulty hearing high-pitched voices

ANS: A Noninfectious hepatitis is a toxic effect of isoniazid (INH), rifampin, and pyrazinamide, and patients who develop hepatotoxicity will need to use other medications. Changes in hearing and nail thickening are not expected with the four medications used for initial TB drug therapy. Presbycusis is an expected finding in the older adult patient. Orange discoloration of body fluids is an expected side effect of rifampin and not an indication to call the health care provider

Which finding for a patient who is taking hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) to treat rheumatoid arthritis is likely to be an adverse effect of the medication? a. Blurred vision b. Joint tenderness c. Abdominal cramping d. Elevated blood pressure

ANS: A Plaquenil can cause retinopathy. The medication should be stopped. The other findings are not related to the medication although they will also be reported

An 18-month-old female patient is diagnosed with her fifth ear infection in the past 10months. The physician notes that the child's growth rate has decreased from the 60thpercentile for height and weight to the 15th percentile over that same time period. The child has been treated for thrush consistently since the third ear infection. The nurse understands that the patient is at risk for which condition? a. Primary immunodeficiency b. Secondary immunodeficiency c. Cancer d. Autoimmunity

ANS: A Primary immunodeficiency is a risk for patients with two or more of the listed problems.Secondary immunodeficiency is induced by illness or treatment. Cancer is caused by abnormal cells that will trigger an immune response. Autoimmune diseases are caused by hyperimmunity

A 51-year-old woman with Crohns disease who is taking infliximab (Remicade) calls the nurse in the outpatient clinic about new symptoms. Which symptom is most important to communicate to the health care provider? a. Fever b. Nausea c. Joint pain d. Headache

ANS: A Since infliximab suppresses the immune response, rapid treatment of infection is essential. The other patient complaints are common side effects of the medication, but they do not indicate any potentially life-threatening complications

A patient who has received allergen testing using the cutaneous scratch method has developed itching and swelling at the skin site. Which action should the nurse take first? a. Administer epinephrine. b. Apply topical hydrocortisone. c. Monitor the patient for lower extremity edema. d. Ask the patient about exposure to any new lotions or soaps

ANS: A The initial symptoms of anaphylaxis are itching and edema at the site of the exposure. Hypotension,tachycardia, dilated pupils, and wheezes occur later. Rapid administration of epinephrine when excessive itching or swelling at the skin site is observed can prevent the progression to anaphylaxis. Topical hydrocortisone would not deter an anaphylactic reaction. Exposure to lotions and soaps does not address the immediate concern of a possible anaphylactic reaction. The nurse should not wait and observe for edema. The nurse should act immediately in order to prevent progression to anaphylaxis.

The nurse is caring for a postoperative patient who had an open appendectomy. The nurse understands that this patient should have some erythema and edema at the incision site12-24 hours post operation dependent on which condition? a. His immune system is functioning properly. b. He is properly vaccinated. c. He has an infection. d. The suppressor T-cells in his body are activated.

ANS: A Tissue integrity is closely associated with immunity. Openings in the integumentary system allow for the entrance of pathogens. If the immune response is functioning optimally, the body responds to the insult to the tissue by protecting the area from invasion of microorganisms and pathogens with inflammation. Routine vaccinations have no bearing on the body's response to intentional tissue impairment. The redness and swelling at the incision site in the first 12-24 hours is part of optimal immune functioning. A patient with erythema and edema that persist or worsen should be evaluated for infection. Suppressor T-cells help to control the immune response in the body

When caring for a patient who is hospitalized with active tuberculosis (TB), the nurse observes a student nurse who is assigned to take care of a patient. Which action, if performed by the student nurse, would require an intervention by the nurse? a. The patient is offered a tissue from the box at the bedside b. A surgical face mask is applied before visiting the patient. c. A snack is brought to the patient from the unit refrigerator. d. Hand washing is performed before entering the patients room

ANS: B A high-efficiency particulate-absorbing (HEPA) mask, rather than a standard surgical mask, should be used when entering the patients room because the HEPA mask can filter out 100% of small airborne particles. Handwashing before entering the patients room is appropriate. Because anorexia and weight loss are frequent problems in patients with TB, bringing food to the patient is appropriate. The student nurse should perform hand washing after handling a tissue that the patient has used, but no precautions are necessary when giving the patient an unused tissue.

Which action will the nurse include in the plan of care for a 33-year-old patient with a new diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis? a. Instruct the patient to purchase a soft mattress. b. Suggest that the patient take a nap in the afternoon. c. Teach the patient to use lukewarm water when bathing. d. Suggest exercise with light weights several times daily.

ANS: B Adequate rest helps decrease the fatigue and pain that are associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Patients are taught to avoid stressing joints, to use warm baths to relieve stiffness, and to use a firm mattress. When stabilized, a therapeutic exercise program is usually developed by a physical therapist to include exercises that improve the flexibility and strength of the affected joints, and the patients overall endurance.

A malnourished patient is receiving a parenteral nutrition (PN) infusion containing amino acids and dextrose from a bag that was hung 24 hours ago. The nurse observes that about 50 mL remain in the PN container.Which action is best for the nurse to take? a. Ask the health care provider to clarify the written PN order. b. Add a new container of PN using the current tubing and filter. c. Hang a new container of PN and change the IV tubing and filter. d. Infuse the remaining 50 mL and then hang a new container of PN

ANS: B All PN solutions are changed at 24 hours. PN solutions containing dextrose and amino acids require a change in tubing and filter every 72 hours rather than daily. Infusion of the additional 50 mL will increase patient risk for infection. Changing the IV tubing and filter more frequently than required will unnecessarily increase costs.The nurse (not the health care provider) is responsible for knowing the indicated times for tubing and filter

A patient being admitted with an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis reports crampy abdominal pain and passing 15 or more bloody stools a day. The nurse will plan to a. administer IV metoclopramide (Reglan) b. discontinue the patients oral food intake. c. administer cobalamin (vitamin B12) injections. d. teach the patient about total colectomy surgery

ANS: B An initial therapy for an acute exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is to rest the bowel bymaking the patient NPO. Metoclopramide increases peristalsis and will worsen symptoms. Cobalamin (vitaminB12) is absorbed in the ileum, which is not affected by ulcerative colitis. Although total colectomy is needed for some patients, there is no indication that this patient is a candidate

Which nursing action will the nurse include in the plan of care for a 35-year-old male patient admitted with an exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? a. Restrict oral fluid intake. b. Monitor stools for blood. c. Ambulate four times daily. d. Increase dietary fiber intake

ANS: B Because anemia or hemorrhage may occur with IBD, stools should be assessed for the presence of blood. The other actions would not be appropriate for the patient with IBD. Because dietary fiber may increase gastrointestinal (GI) motility and exacerbate the diarrhea, severe fatigue is common with IBD exacerbations,and dehydration may occur

Which information will the nurse include when preparing teaching materials for patients with exacerbations of rheumatoid arthritis? a. Affected joints should not be exercised when pain is present. b. Application of cold packs before exercise may decrease joint pain. c. Exercises should be performed passively by someone other than the patient. d. Walking may substitute for range-of-motion (ROM) exercises on some days.

ANS: B Cold application is helpful in reducing pain during periods of exacerbation of RA. Because the joint pain is chronic, patients are instructed to exercise even when joints are painful. ROM exercises are intended to strengthen joints and improve flexibility, so passive ROM alone is not sufficient. Recreational exercise is encouraged but is not a replacement for ROM exercises.

Which information will the nurse include in teaching a patient who had a proctocolectomy and ileostomyfor ulcerative colitis? a. Restrict fluid intake to prevent constant liquid drainage from the stoma. b. Use care when eating high-fiber foods to avoid obstruction of the ileum. c. Irrigate the ileostomy daily to avoid having to wear a drainage appliance. d. Change the pouch every day to prevent leakage of contents onto the skin.

ANS: B High-fiber foods are introduced gradually and should be well chewed to avoid obstruction of the ileostomy. Patients with ileostomies lose the absorption of water in the colon and need to take in increased amounts of fluid. The pouch should be drained frequently but is changed every 5 to 7 days. The drainage from an ileostomy is liquid and continuous, so control by irrigation is not possible.

The health care provider has prescribed the following collaborative interventions for a patient who is takingazathioprine (Imuran) for systemic lupus erythematosus. Which order will the nurse question? a. Draw anti-DNA blood titer. b. Administer varicella vaccine. c. Naproxen (Aleve) 200 mg BID. d. Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg daily.

ANS: B Live virus vaccines, such as varicella, are contraindicated in a patient taking immunosuppressive drugs. The other orders are appropriate for the patient.

A 31-year-old woman is taking methotrexate (Rheumatrex) to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Which information from the patients health history is important for the nurse to report to the health care provider about the methotrexate? a. The patient had a history of infectious mononucleosis as a teenager. b. The patient is trying to get pregnant before her disease becomes more severe. c. The patient has a family history of age-related macular degeneration of the retina. d. The patient has been using large doses of vitamins and health foods to treat the RA.

ANS: B Methotrexate is teratogenic, and the patient should be taking contraceptives during methotrexate therapy. The other information will not impact the choice of methotrexate as therapy.

Which statement by a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) indicates that the patient has understood the nurses teaching about the condition? a. I will exercise even if I am tired. b. I will use sunscreen when I am outside. c. I should take birth control pills to keep from getting pregnant. d. I should avoid aspirin or nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs.

ANS: B Severe skin reactions can occur in patients with SLE who are exposed to the sun. Patients should avoid fatigue by balancing exercise with rest periods as needed. Oral contraceptives can exacerbate lupus. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs are used to treat the musculoskeletal manifestations of SLE

The nurse teaches a patient about the transmission of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Which statement, if made by the patient, indicates that teaching was effective? a. I will avoid being outdoors whenever possible. b. My husband will be sleeping in the guest bedroom. c. I will take the bus instead of driving to visit my friends. d. I will keep the windows closed at home to contain the germs.

ANS: B Teach the patient how to minimize exposure to close contacts and household members. Homes should be well ventilated, especially the areas where the infected person spends a lot of time. While still infectious, the patient should sleep alone, spend as much time as possible outdoors, and minimize time in congregate settings or on public transportation

Which action will the nurse plan to take for a 40-year-old patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) who has urinary retention caused by a flaccid bladder? a. Decrease the patients evening fluid intake. b. Teach the patient how to use the Cred method. c. Suggest the use of adult incontinence briefs for nighttime only. d. Assist the patient to the commode every 2 hours during the day

ANS: B The Cred method can be used to improve bladder emptying. Decreasing fluid intake will not improve bladder emptying and may increase risk for urinary tract infection (UTI) and dehydration. The use of incontinence briefs and frequent toileting will not improve bladder emptying

After 2 months of tuberculosis (TB) treatment with isoniazid (INH), rifampin (Rifadin), pyrazinamide(PZA), and ethambutol, a patient continues to have positive sputum smears for acid-fast bacilli (AFB). Which action should the nurse take next? a. Teach about treatment for drug-resistant TB treatment. b. Ask the patient whether medications have been taken as directed. c. Schedule the patient for directly observed therapy three times weekly. d. Discuss with the health care provider the need for the patient to use an injectable antibiotic.

ANS: B The first action should be to determine whether the patient has been compliant with drug therapy because negative sputum smears would be expected if the TB bacillus is susceptible to the medications and if the medications have been taken correctly. Assessment is the first step in the nursing process. Depending on whether the patient has been compliant or not, different medications or directly observed therapy may be indicated. The other options are interventions based on assumptions until an assessment has been completed.

A 48-year-old woman has a body mass index (BMI) of 31 kg/m2, a normal C-reactive protein level, and low serum transferrin and albumin levels. The nurse will plan patient teaching to increase the patients intake of foods that are high in a. iron. b. protein. c. calories. d. carbohydrate.

ANS: B The patients C-reactive protein and transferrin levels indicate low protein stores. The BMI is in the obese range, so increasing caloric intake is not indicated. The data do not indicate a need for increased carbohydrate or iron intake.

A patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) complains to the clinic nurse about having chronically dry eyes.Which action by the nurse is most appropriate? a. Teach the patient about adverse effects of the RA medications. b. Suggest that the patient use over-the-counter (OTC) artificial tears. c. Reassure the patient that dry eyes are a common problem with RA. d. Ask the health care provider about discontinuing methotrexate (Rheumatrex)

ANS: B The patients dry eyes are consistent with Sjgrens syndrome, a common extraarticular manifestation of RA.Symptomatic therapy such as OTC eye drops is recommended. Dry eyes are not a side effect of methotrexate.Although dry eyes are common in RA, it is more helpful to offer a suggestion to relieve these symptoms than to offer reassurance. The dry eyes are not caused by RA treatment, but by the disease itself.

The nurse is caring for a patient who is being discharged home after a splenectomy. What information on immune function needs to be included in this patient's discharge planning? a. The mechanisms of the inflammatory response b. Basic infection control techniques c. The importance of wearing a face mask in public d. Limiting contact with the general population

ANS: B The spleen is one of the major organs of the immune system. Without the spleen, the patient is at higher risk for infection; so, the nurse must be sure that the patient understands basic principles of infection control. The patient with a splenectomy does not need to understand the mechanisms of inflammatory response. The patient with a splenectomy does not need to wear a face mask in public as long as the patient understands and maintains the basic principles of infection control. The patient who has had a splenectomy does not need to limit contact with the general population as long as the patient understands and maintains the basic principles of infection control

When obtaining a health history and physical assessment for a 36-year-old female patient with possible multiple sclerosis (MS), the nurse should a. assess for the presence of chest pain. b. inquire about urinary tract problems. c. inspect the skin for rashes or discoloration. d. ask the patient about any increase in libido.

ANS: B Urinary tract problems with incontinence or retention are common symptoms of MS. Chest pain and skin rashes are not symptoms of MS. A decrease in libido is common with MS.

Which patient statement indicates that the nurses teaching about sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) for ulcerative colitis has been effective? a. The medication will be tapered if I need surgery. b. I will need to use a sunscreen when I am outdoors. c. I will need to avoid contact with people who are sick. d. The medication will prevent infections that cause the diarrhea

ANS: B Sulfasalazine may cause photosensitivity in some patients. It is not used to treat infections. Sulfasalazine does not reduce immune function. Unlike corticosteroids, tapering of sulfasalazine is not needed.

A 24-year-old woman with Crohns disease develops a fever and symptoms of a urinary tract infection(UTI) with tan, fecal-smelling urine. What information will the nurse add to a general teaching plan about UTIs in order to individualize the teaching for this patient? a. Bacteria in the perianal area can enter the urethra. b. Fistulas can form between the bowel and bladder. c. Drink adequate fluids to maintain normal hydration. d. Empty the bladder before and after sexual intercourse

ANS: B Fistulas between the bowel and bladder occur in Crohns disease and can lead to UTI. Teaching for UTI prevention in general includes good hygiene, adequate fluid intake, and voiding before and after intercourse.

The parents of a newborn question the nurse about the need for vaccinations: "Why does our baby need all those shots? He's so small, and they have to cause him pain." The nurse can explain to the parents that which of the following are true about vaccinations? (Select all that apply.) a. Are only required for infants b. Are part of primary prevention for system disorders c. Prevent the child from getting childhood diseases d. Help protect individuals and communities e. Are risk free f. Are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

ANS: B, D, F Immunizations are considered part of primary prevention, help protect individuals from contracting specific diseases and from spreading them to the community at large, and are recommended by the CDC. Immunizations are recommended for people at various ages from infants to older adults. Vaccination does not guarantee that the recipient won't get the disease, but it decreases the potential to contract the illness. No medication is risk free.

Anakinra (Kineret) is prescribed for a 49-year-old patient who has rheumatoid arthritis (RA). When teaching the patient about this drug, the nurse will include information about a. avoiding concurrently taking aspirin. b. symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. c. self-administration of subcutaneous injections. d. taking the medication with at least 8 oz of fluid

ANS: C Anakinra is administered by subcutaneous injection. GI bleeding is not a side effect of this medication. Because the medication is injected, instructions to take it with 8 oz of fluid would not be appropriate. The patient is likely to be concurrently taking aspirin or nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and these should not be discontinued.

Immediately after the nurse administers an intracutaneous injection of an allergen on the forearm, a patient complains of itching at the site and of weakness and dizziness. What action should the nurse take first? a. Remind the patient to remain calm. b. Administer subcutaneous epinephrine. c. Apply a tourniquet above the injection site. d. Rub a local anti-inflammatory cream on the site.

ANS: C Application of a tourniquet will decrease systemic circulation of the allergen and should be the first reaction. A local anti-inflammatory cream may be applied to the site of a cutaneous test if the itching persists. Epinephrine will be needed if the allergic reaction progresses to anaphylaxis. The nurse should assist the patient to remain calm, but this is not an adequate initial nursing action.

A patient who collects honey to earn supplemental income has developed a hypersensitivity to bee stings.Which statement, if made by the patient, would indicate a need for additional teaching? a. I need to find another way to earn extra money. b. I will get a prescription for epinephrine and learn to self-inject it. c. I will plan to take oral antihistamines daily before going to work d. I should wear a Medic-Alert bracelet indicating my allergy to bee stings

ANS: C Because the patient is at risk for bee stings and the severity of allergic reactions tends to increase with added exposure to allergen, taking oral antihistamines will not adequately control the patients hypersensitivity reaction. The other patient statements indicate a good understanding of management of the problem.

Which laboratory data is important to communicate to the health care provider for a patient who is taking methotrexate (Rheumatrex) to treat rheumatoid arthritis? a. The blood glucose is 90 mg/dL. b. The rheumatoid factor is positive. c. The white blood cell (WBC) count is 1500/L. d. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is elevated

ANS: C Bone marrow suppression is a possible side effect of methotrexate, and the patients low WBC count places the patient at high risk for infection. The elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and positive rheumatoid factor are expected in rheumatoid arthritis. The blood glucose is normal.

Which laboratory result will the nurse monitor to determine whether prednisone (Deltasone) has been effective for a 30-year-old patient with an acute exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis? a. Blood glucose test b. Liver function tests c. C-reactive protein level d. Serum electrolyte levels

ANS: C C-reactive protein is a marker for inflammation, and a decrease would indicate that the corticosteroid therapy was effective. Blood glucose and serum electrolyte levels will also be monitored to check for side effects of prednisone. Liver function is not routinely monitored in patients receiving corticosteroids

A new mother expresses concern about her baby developing allergies and asks what the health care provider meant by passive immunity. Which example should the nurse use to explain this type of immunity? a. Early immunization b. Bone marrow donation c. Breastfeeding her infant d. Exposure to communicable diseases

ANS: C Colostrum provides passive immunity through antibodies from the mother. These antibodies protect the infant for a few months. However, memory cells are not retained, so the protection is not permanent. Active immunity is acquired by being immunized with vaccinations or having an infection. It requires that the infant has an immune response after exposure to an antigen. Cell-mediated immunity is acquired through T lymphocytes and is a form of active immunity.

A 49-year-old patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) is to begin treatment with glatiramer acetate (Copaxone). Which information will the nurse include in patient teaching? a. Recommendation to drink at least 4 L of fluid daily b. Need to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery c. How to draw up and administer injections of the medication d. Use of contraceptive methods other than oral contraceptives

ANS: C Copaxone is administered by self-injection. Oral contraceptives are an appropriate choice for birth control.There is no need to avoid driving or drink large fluid volumes when taking glatiramer.

When the nurse brings medications to a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, the patient refuses the prescribed methotrexate (Rheumatrex). The patient tells the nurse, My arthritis isnt that bad yet. The side effects of methotrexate are worse than the arthritis. The most appropriate response by the nurse is a. You have the right to refuse to take the methotrexate. b. Methotrexate is less expensive than some of the newer drugs. c. It is important to start methotrexate early to decrease the extent of joint damage. d. Methotrexate is effective and has fewer side effects than some of the other drugs

ANS: C Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are prescribed early to prevent the joint degeneration that occurs as soon as the first year with RA. The other statements are accurate, but the most important point for the patient to understand is that it is important to start DMARDs as quickly as possible

A patient is diagnosed with both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and active tuberculosis (TB)disease. Which information obtained by the nurse is most important to communicate to the health careprovider? a. The Mantoux test had an induration of 7 mm. b. The chest-x-ray showed infiltrates in the lower lobes. c. The patient is being treated with antiretrovirals for HIV infection. d. The patient has a cough that is productive of blood-tinged mucus

ANS: C Drug interactions can occur between the antiretrovirals used to treat HIV infection and the medications used to treat TB. The other data are expected in a patient with HIV and TB.

Which diet choice by the patient with an acute exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) indicates a need for more teaching? a. Scrambled eggs b. White toast and jam c. Oatmeal with cream d. Pancakes with syrup

ANS: C During acute exacerbations of IBD, the patient should avoid high-fiber foods such as whole grains. High-fat foods also may cause diarrhea in some patients. The other choices are low residue and would be appropriate for this patient.

The nurse reviews the patient's complete blood count (CBC) results and notes that the neutrophil levels are elevated, but monocytes are still within normal limits. This indicates what type of inflammatory response? a. Chronic b. Resolved c. Early stage acute d. Late stage acute

ANS: C Elevated neutrophils and monocytes within normal limits are findings indicative of early inflammatory response. Neutrophils increase in just a few hours, while it takes the body days to increase the monocyte levels. Chronic inflammation results in varying elevations in WBCs dependent on multiple issues. Elevated neutrophils are not indicative of resolved inflammation. Elevations in monocytes occur later in the inflammatory response.

A nurse is instructing her patient with ulcerative colitis regarding the need to avoid enteric coated medications. The nurse knows that the patient understands the reason for this teaching when he states which of the following? a. "The coating on these medications is irritating to my intestines." b. "I need a more immediate response from my medications than can be obtained from enteric coated medications." c. "Enteric coated medications are absorbed lower in the digestive tract and can be irritating to my intestines or inadequately absorbed by my inflamed tissue." d. "I don't need to use these medications because they cause diarrhea, and I have had enough trouble with diarrhea and rectal bleeding over the past weeks."

ANS: C Enteric coatings on medications are designed to prevent breakdown and absorption of the medication until lower in the digestive tract, usually to prevent stomach irritation or to reach a certain point in the digestive tract for optimal absorption. For the patient with ulcerative colitis, the intestinal lining is inflamed or susceptible to inflammation and can have impaired absorption; therefore, enteric coated medications should be avoided. The coating is not irritating, but the medication can be. The response time of the medication is not a concern in this instance. Enteric coated medicines do not cause diarrhea simply because they are enteric coated.

While caring for a patient preparing for a kidney transplant, the nurse knows that the patient understands teaching on immunosuppression when she makes which statement? a. "My body will treat the new kidney like my original kidney." b. "I will have to make sure that I avoid being around people." c. "The medications that I take will help prevent my body from attacking my new kidney." d. "My body will only have a problem with my new kidney if the donor is not directly related to me."

ANS: C Immunosuppressant therapy is initiated to inhibit optimal immune response. This is necessary in the case of transplantation, because the normal immune response would cause the body to recognize the new tissue as foreign and attack it. The body will identify the new kidney as foreign and will not treat it as the original kidney. While patients with transplants must be careful about exposure to others, especially those who are or might be ill, and practice adequate and consistent infection control techniques, they don't have to avoid people or social interaction. The new kidney brings foreign cells regardless of relationship between donor and recipient.

A patient who is taking rifampin (Rifadin) for tuberculosis calls the clinic and reports having orange discolored urine and tears. Which is the best response by the nurse? a. Ask if the patient is experiencing shortness of breath, hives, or itching. b. Ask the patient about any visual abnormalities such as red-green color discrimination. c. Explain that orange discolored urine and tears are normal while taking this medication. d. Advise the patient to stop the drug and report the symptoms to the health care provider.

ANS: C Orange-colored body secretions are a side effect of rifampin. The patient does not have to stop taking the medication. The findings are not indicative of an allergic reaction. Alterations in red-green color discrimination commonly occurs when taking ethambutol (Myambutol), which is a different TB medication.

A patient with rheumatoid arthritis being seen in the clinic has rheumatoid nodules on the elbows. Which action will the nurse take? a. Draw blood for rheumatoid factor analysis. b. Teach the patient about injections for the nodules c. Assess the nodules for skin breakdown or infection. d. Discuss the need for surgical removal of the nodules.

ANS: C Rheumatoid nodules can break down or become infected. They are not associated with changes in rheumatoid factor, and injection is not needed. Rheumatoid nodules are usually not removed surgically because of a high probability of recurrence.

Which statement by a patient would alert the nurse to a possible immunodeficiency disorder? a. I take one baby aspirin every day to prevent stroke. b. I usually eat eggs or meat for at least 2 meals a day. c. I had my spleen removed many years ago after a car accident. d. I had a chest x-ray 6 months ago when I had walking pneumonia.

ANS: C Splenectomy increases the risk for septicemia from bacterial infections. The patients protein intake is good and should improve immune function. Daily aspirin use does not affect immune function. A chest x-ray does not have enough radiation to suppress immune function.

The health care provider writes an order for bacteriologic testing for a patient who has a positive tuberculosis skin test. Which action should the nurse take? a. Teach about the reason for the blood tests. b. Schedule an appointment for a chest x-ray. c. Teach about the need to get sputum specimens for 2 to 3 consecutive days. d. Instruct the patient to expectorate three specimens as soon as possible.

ANS: C Sputum specimens are obtained on 2 to 3 consecutive days for bacteriologic testing for M. tuberculosis. The patient should not provide all the specimens at once. Blood cultures are not used for tuberculosis testing. A chest x-ray is not bacteriologic testing. Although the findings on chest x-ray examination are important, it is not possible to make a diagnosis of TB solely based on chest x-ray findings because other diseases can mimic the appearance of TB.

A new clinic patient with joint swelling and pain is being tested for systemic lupus erythematosus. Whichtest will provide the most specific findings for the nurse to review? a. Rheumatoid factor (RF) b. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) c. Anti-Smith antibody (Anti-Sm) d. Lupus erythematosus (LE) cell prep

ANS: C The anti-Sm is antibody found almost exclusively in SLE. The other blood tests are also used in screening bu tare not as specific to SLE.

Employee health test results reveal a tuberculosis (TB) skin test of 16-mm induration and a negative chest x-ray for a staff nurse working on the pulmonary unit. The nurse has no symptoms of TB. Which information should the occupational health nurse plan to teach the staff nurse? a. Standard four-drug therapy for TB b. Need for annual repeat TB skin testing c. Use and side effects of isoniazid (INH) d. Bacille Calmette-Gurin (BCG) vaccineA

ANS: C The nurse is considered to have a latent TB infection and should be treated with INH daily for 6 to 9 months.The four-drug therapy would be appropriate if the nurse had active TB. TB skin testing is not done for individuals who have already had a positive skin test. BCG vaccine is not used in the United States for TB and would not be helpful for this individual, who already has a TB infection.

While obtaining a health history from a patient, the nurse learns that the patient has a history of allergic rhinitis and multiple food allergies. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate? a. Encourage the patient to carry an epinephrine kit in case a type IV allergic reaction to latex develops. b. Advise the patient to use oil-based hand creams to decrease contact with natural proteins in latex gloves. c. Document the patients allergy history and be alert for any clinical manifestations of a type I latex allergy. d. Recommend that the patient use vinyl gloves instead of latex gloves in preventing blood-borne pathogen contact.

ANS: C The patients allergy history and occupation indicate a risk of developing a latex allergy. The nurse should be prepared to manage any symptoms that may occur. Epinephrine is not an appropriate treatment for contact dermatitis that is caused by a type IV allergic reaction to latex. Oil-based creams will increase the exposure to latex from latex gloves. Vinyl gloves are appropriate to use when exposure to body fluids is unlikely.

A 22-year-old female patient with an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis is having 15 to 20 stools daily and has excoriated perianal skin. Which patient behavior indicates that teaching regarding maintenance of skin integrity has been effective? a. The patient uses incontinence briefs to contain loose stools. b. The patient asks for antidiarrheal medication after each stool. c. The patient uses witch hazel compresses to decrease irritation. d. The patient cleans the perianal area with soap after each stool.

ANS: C Witch hazel compresses are suggested to reduce anal irritation and discomfort. Incontinence briefs may trap diarrhea and increase the incidence of skin breakdown. Antidiarrheal medications are not given 15 to 20 times a day. The perianal area should be washed with plain water after each stool.

Which information about a 60-year-old patient with MS indicates that the nurse should consult with thehealth care provider before giving the prescribed dose of dalfampridine (Ampyra)? a. The patient has relapsing-remitting MS. b. The patient walks a mile a day for exercise. c. The patient complains of pain with neck flexion. d. The patient has an increased serum creatinine level.

ANS: D Dalfampridine should not be given to patients with impaired renal function. The other information will not impact whether the dalfampridine should be administered.

An alcoholic and homeless patient is diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB). Which intervention by the nurse will be most effective in ensuring adherence with the treatment regimen? a. Arrange for a friend to administer the medication on schedule. b. Give the patient written instructions about how to take the medications. c. Teach the patient about the high risk for infecting others unless treatment is followed. d. Arrange for a daily noon meal at a community center where the drug will be administered.

ANS: D Directly observed therapy is the most effective means for ensuring compliance with the treatment regimen, and arranging a daily meal will help ensure that the patient is available to receive the medication. The other nursing interventions may be appropriate for some patients but are not likely to be as helpful for this patient.

A patient is admitted with active tuberculosis (TB). The nurse should question a health care providers order to discontinue airborne precautions unless which assessment finding is documented? a. Chest x-ray shows no upper lobe infiltrates. b. TB medications have been taken for 6 months. c. Mantoux testing shows an induration of 10 mm. d. Three sputum smears for acid-fast bacilli are negative

ANS: D Negative sputum smears indicate that Mycobacterium tuberculosis is not present in the sputum, and the patient cannot transmit the bacteria by the airborne route. Chest x-rays are not used to determine whether treatment has been successful. Taking medications for 6 months is necessary, but the multi drug-resistant forms of the disease might not be eradicated after 6 months of therapy. Repeat Mantoux testing would not be done because the result will not change even with effective treatment

Which question from the nurse would help determine if a patients abdominal pain might indicate irritable bowel syndrome? a. Have you been passing a lot of gas? b. What foods affect your bowel patterns? c. Do you have any abdominal distention? d. How long have you had abdominal pain?

ANS: D One criterion for the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the presence of abdominal discomfort or pain for at least 3 months. Abdominal distention, flatulence, and food intolerance are also associated with IBS,but are not diagnostic criteria

The nurse teaching a support group of women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) about how to manage activities of daily living suggests that they a. stand rather than sit when performing household and yard chores. b. strengthen small hand muscles by wringing sponges or washcloths. c. protect the knee joints by sleeping with a small pillow under the knees. d. avoid activities that require repetitive use of the same muscles and joints.

ANS: D Patients are advised to avoid repetitious movements. Sitting during household chores is recommended to decrease stress on joints. Wringing water out of sponges would increase the joint stress. Patients are encouraged to position joints in the extended position, and sleeping with a pillow behind the knees would decrease the ability of the knee to extend and also decrease knee range of motion (ROM).

A 25-year-old female patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who has a facial rash and alopecia tells the nurse, I never leave my house because I hate the way I look. An appropriate nursing diagnosis for the patient is a. activity intolerance related to fatigue and inactivity. b. impaired social interaction related to lack of social skills. c. impaired skin integrity related to itching and skin sloughing. d. social isolation related to embarrassment about the effects of SLE.

ANS: D The patients statement about not going anywhere because of hating the way he or she looks supports the diagnosis of social isolation because of embarrassment about the effects of the SLE. Activity intolerance is a possible problem for patients with SLE, but the information about this patient does not support this as a diagnosis. The rash with SLE is non pruritic. There is no evidence of lack of social skills for this patient

A patient with rheumatoid arthritis has been taking corticosteroids for 11 months. Which nursing action is most likely to detect early signs of infection in this patient? a. Monitor white blood cell count. b. Check the skin for areas of redness. c. Check the temperature every 2 hours. d. Ask about fatigue or feelings of malaise.

ANS: D Common clinical manifestations of inflammation and infection are frequently not present when patients receive immunosuppressive medications. The earliest manifestation of an infection may be just not feeling well

A patient who is receiving an IV antibiotic develops wheezes and dyspnea. In which order should the nurse implement these prescribed actions? (Put a comma and a space between each answer choice [A, B, C, D, E]). a. Discontinue the antibiotic infusion. b. Give diphenhydramine (Benadryl) IV. c. Inject epinephrine (Adrenalin) IM or IV. d. Prepare an infusion of dopamine (Intropin). e. Start 100% oxygen using a nonrebreather mask.

ANS:A, E, C, B, D The nurse should initially discontinue the antibiotic because it is the likely cause of the allergic reaction. Next,oxygen delivery should be maximized, followed by treatment of bronchoconstriction with epinephrine administered IM or IV. Diphenhydramine will work more slowly than epinephrine, but will help prevent progression of the reaction. Because the patient currently does not have evidence of hypotension, the dopamine infusion can be prepared last.

The nurse is caring for a patient who was started on intravenous antibiotic therapy earlier in the shift. As the second dose is being infused, the patient reports feeling dizzy and having difficulty breathing and talking. The nurse notes that the patient's respirations are 26breaths/min with a weak pulse of 112 beats/min. The nurse suspects that the patient is experiencing which condition? a. Suppressed immune response b. Hyperimmune response c. Allergic reaction d. Anaphylactic reaction

ANS:D The patient is exhibiting signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction to the medication.These signs and symptoms during administration of a medication do not correspond to a suppressed immune response but a type of hyperimmune response. While the patient is experiencing a hyperimmune response, the signs and symptoms allow for a more specific response. While the patient is experiencing an allergic reaction, the signs and symptoms presented in the scenario allow for a more specific response.