A nurse in the emergency room is caring for a client who presents with manifestations that indicate a myocardial infarction. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse take first?

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because droplet precautions are not sufficient to prevent the transmission of pneumonic plague. Droplet precautions are used to prevent the spread of infectious agents that are expelled through coughing, sneezing, or talking and travel only a short distance in the air. Droplet precautions include wearing a surgical mask, gown, and gloves, and placing the client in a private room or with a roommate who has the same infection.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because administering an antitoxin is not an intervention for pneumonic plague. An antitoxin is a substance that neutralizes the effects of a toxin produced by a microorganism. Pneumonic plague is not caused by a toxin, but by a bacterial infection.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because initiating airborne precautions is an intervention for pneumonic plague. Airborne precautions are used to prevent the spread of infectious agents that can remain suspended in the air and travel over long distances. Pneumonic plague is a severe and potentially fatal infection caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which can be transmited through respiratory droplets or aerosols. Airborne precautions are used to prevent the spread of infectious agents that can remain suspended in the air and travel over long distances. Airborne precautions include wearing a respirator or N95 mask, placing the client in a negative-pressure room with an air filtration system, and limiting visitors and staff contact.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because destroying the linens after use is not an intervention for pneumonic plague. Linens that are contaminated with body fluids or secretions should be handled with gloves and placed in leak-proof bags for laundering or disposal, but they do not need to be destroyed.

Choice A: Provide a brightly lit environment is not an intervention that the nurse should take. A brightly lit environment can stimulate the brain and increase intracranial pressure. The nurse should provide a quiet and dimly lit environment to reduce sensory stimuli and promote rest.

Choice B: Elevate the head of the bed is an intervention that the nurse should take. Elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees can help reduce intracranial pressure by facilitating venous drainage from the brain and decreasing cerebral blood volume. The nurse should avoid flexing or extending the neck, which can impede blood flow and increase intracranial pressure.

Choice C: Encourage a minimum intake of 2000 mL (67.6 oz) of clear fluids per day is not an intervention that the nurse should take. A high fluid intake can increase intracranial pressure by increasing blood volume and cerebral edema. The nurse should monitor fluid balance and restrict fluid intake as prescribed to maintain normal osmolality and prevent fluid overload.

Choice D: Teach controlled coughing and deep breathing is not an intervention that the nurse should take. Coughing and deep breathing can increase intrathoracic pressure, which can increase intracranial pressure by reducing venous return from the brain. The nurse should avoid activities that can increase intrathoracic pressure, such as straining, sneezing, or blowing the nose. The nurse should also administer oxygen as prescribed to maintain adequate oxygenation and perfusion of the brain.