VNSG 1400: Chapter 33 (Med-Surg) Prep U Questions

The inflammatory response is an important nonspecific component of the immune system that is elicited in response to tissue injury or pathogens. A nurse is aware that dysfunctional inflammatory responses are responsible for numerous pathophysiological conditions. Which of the following patients most clearly exemplifies this?

A 71-year-old woman who uses a quad cane because of mobility limitations brought on by rheumatoid arthritis Explanation: Many diseases, such as arthritis, are the consequence of a dysfunctional inflammatory response. BPH, GERD, and cancer are not the result of inflammation.

A client is fighting an active infection. What function will cytokines perform in this immune response?

Determining whether the immune response will be the production of antibodies or a cell-mediated response Explanation:Separate subpopulations of helper T cells produce different types of cytokines and determine whether the immune response will be the production of antibodies or a cell-mediated immune response. Cytokines do not determine whether cells are foreign, determine if lymphokines will be activated, or determine the role of memory T cells.

A client's diagnostic testing revealed that he is colonized with vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE). What change in the client's health status could precipitate an infection?

Development of a skin break Explanation: Colonization can progress to infection if there is a portal of entry by which bacteria can invade body tissues. The use of vancomycin, or any other antibiotic, would not necessarily precipitate a VRE infection. Prolonged skin contact is similarly unlikely to cause infection, provided the skin remains intact.

Which condition is associated with impaired immunity relating to the aging client?

Renal function decreases Explanation:Decreased renal circulation, filtration, absorption, and excretion contribute to the risk for urinary tract infections. Antibody production decreases, the skin becomes thinner, and the incidence of autoimmune disease increases with age.

Which statement accurately reflects current stem cell research?

The stem cell is known as a precursor cell that continually replenishes the body's entire supply of both red and white cells. Explanation:The stem cell is known as a precursor cell that continually replenishes the body's entire supply of both red and white cells. Stem cells comprise only a small portion of all types of bone marrow cells. Research conducted with mouse models has demonstrated that once the immune system has been destroyed experimentally, it can be completely restored with the implantation of just a few purified stem cells. Stem cell transplantation has been carried out in human subjects with certain types of immune dysfunction, such as severe combined immunodeficiency. Clinical trails are underway in clients with a variety of disorders with an autoimmune component, including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and multiple sclerosis.