A client is being evaluated to rule out pulmonary tuberculosis.
Which finding is most closely associated with pulmonary tuberculosis?
Non-productive cough.
Skin discoloration.
Leg cramps.
Night sweats.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While a cough is a common symptom of pulmonary tuberculosis, it is typically productive rather than non-productive as the disease progresses. The inflammatory response to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria in the lung tissue leads to the production of purulent sputum, which may also contain blood, a condition known as hemoptysis. A completely dry, non-productive cough is less characteristic of the cavitary lesions and tissue necrosis that usually occur in active pulmonary tuberculosis cases.
Choice B rationale
Skin discoloration is not a classic or primary diagnostic finding associated with the initial evaluation of pulmonary tuberculosis. While chronic illness can eventually lead to pallor due to anemia or cyanosis if oxygenation is severely impaired, these are non-specific signs. Tuberculosis primarily affects the respiratory system and causes systemic constitutional symptoms rather than specific dermatological changes. Diagnostic focus remains on respiratory secretions, chest imaging, and systemic inflammatory responses like fevers and weight loss.
Choice C rationale
Leg cramps are generally unrelated to the pathophysiology of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Cramping is more commonly associated with electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or magnesium, or peripheral vascular issues. While a patient with advanced tuberculosis may experience generalized muscle wasting or weakness due to cachexia, localized leg cramps do not help rule in or rule out a diagnosis of tuberculosis during a clinical evaluation of a suspected respiratory infection.
Choice D rationale
Night sweats are one of the hallmark constitutional symptoms of active pulmonary tuberculosis. This occurs due to the body's cytokine response to the chronic infection, which alters the hypothalamic thermoregulatory set point. These sweats are often profuse and occur specifically during the night, frequently soaking the patient's clothes or bed linens. Along with a low-grade afternoon fever, weight loss, and a persistent cough, night sweats strongly suggest the presence of a chronic mycobacterial infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["125"]
Explanation
Step 1 is 1000 mL ÷ 8 hr = 125 mL/hr. Final calculated answer is 125 mL/hr. .
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Small, frequent meals reduce the metabolic and mechanical burden on the respiratory system. Large meals can cause gastric distension, which pushes the diaphragm upward, restricting lung expansion and increasing the work of breathing. By consuming smaller portions throughout the day, the client conserves energy and prevents the severe dyspnea often associated with the pressure of a full stomach against a compromised respiratory tract in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Choice B rationale
High-fat diets are generally avoided as the primary caloric source in respiratory distress unless specifically ordered for low-carbohydrate needs. While fats are calorie-dense, excessive intake can lead to delayed gastric emptying and feelings of fullness that may exacerbate shortness of breath. The goal is a balanced intake that provides sufficient energy without causing abdominal discomfort or significantly increasing the metabolic rate beyond what the client's current oxygen supply can comfortably support for digestion.
Choice C rationale
Simple carbohydrates are metabolized quickly and result in the production of high levels of carbon dioxide as a byproduct. In clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the ability to exhale carbon dioxide is already impaired. Consuming high amounts of simple sugars can lead to hypercapnia, which increases the respiratory rate and worsens the sensation of fatigue and shortness of breath during and after mealtimes due to the increased ventilatory demand.
Choice D rationale
Eating a large meal late at night before sleeping is inappropriate for a client with respiratory compromise. Lying flat or sleeping shortly after a heavy meal increases the risk of acid reflux and aspiration. Furthermore, the pressure of a full stomach on the diaphragm is most pronounced when the client is in a recumbent position, which can lead to nocturnal dyspnea, poor sleep quality, and significant morning fatigue due to nighttime hypoxia.
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