A client arrives at a hurricane disaster medical area seeking treatment for diarrhea.
Which source of contamination should the nurse consider when interviewing the client about exposure?
Nosocomial transmission in the medical area.
Food contamination from flood waters.
Drinking water contaminated by sewage.
Close living quarters at evacuation centers.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Nosocomial transmission in the medical area. Rationale: Nosocomial transmission refers to infections that are acquired in healthcare settings. While it's essential for healthcare professionals to be aware of this risk, the client's presentation of diarrhea in a hurricane disaster area is more likely due to environmental factors rather than hospital-acquired infection.
Choice B rationale:
Food contamination from floodwaters. Rationale: In the aftermath of a hurricane, floodwaters can carry contaminants and pathogens, leading to food contamination. This is a significant concern, and the nurse should educate the client about the potential risks associated with consuming food exposed to floodwaters. However, the primary source of contamination for diarrhea is typically waterborne pathogens, which is addressed in choice C.
Choice C rationale:
Drinking water contaminated by sewage. Rationale: During natural disasters like hurricanes, sewage systems can become compromised, leading to the contamination of drinking water sources. This contamination poses a significant risk for diarrheal illnesses, as sewage often contains harmful pathogens. Therefore, the nurse should consider this as the most probable source of the client's exposure.
Choice D rationale:
Close living quarters at evacuation centers. Rationale: Close living quarters in evacuation centers can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases, including diarrheal illnesses. However, in this scenario, the client's chief complaint is diarrhea, and the nurse should prioritize investigating potential sources of waterborne contamination, as this aligns more closely with the client's symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B.
Choice A rationale: Metabolic alkalosis is caused by a loss of acid or a gain of base. It is not typically associated with anxiety or hyperventilation.
Choice B rationale: Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, which leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This can occur in response to anxiety, pain, or other stressors.
Choice C rationale: Metabolic acidosis is caused by a buildup of acid in the blood or a loss of bicarbonate. It is not typically associated with anxiety or hyperventilation.
Choice D rationale: Respiratory acidosis is caused by hypoventilation, which leads to an increase in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. It is not typically associated with anxiety or hyperventilation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Altered consciousness within the first 24 hours after injury is not indicative of a developing epidural hematoma. An epidural hematoma typically manifests as a lucid interval followed by a rapid deterioration in consciousness hours after the injury.
Choice B rationale:
Cushing reflex (increased blood pressure, bradycardia, and irregular respirations) and cerebral edema after 24 hours are characteristic signs of a developing epidural hematoma. This occurs due to the accumulation of blood between the dura mater and the skull, leading to increased intracranial pressure.
Choice C rationale:
Headache and pupillary changes 48 hours after head injury are not specific signs of an epidural hematoma. These symptoms may indicate various other neurological conditions or complications.
Choice D rationale:
Fever, nuchal rigidity, and opisthotonos within hours are suggestive of meningitis rather than an epidural hematoma. These symptoms are not typical of epidural hematomas, which primarily involve alterations in consciousness and increased intracranial pressure.
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