A nurse is assessing a patient who recently traveled to a tropical region. The patient complains of sudden fever and headache. What additional information would be most helpful to confirm a suspected case of dengue fever?

Choice A rationale:

Elevating the client's legs may be helpful in certain situations to improve venous return and manage hypotension. However, during severe plasma leakage and organ failure in dengue fever, the priority is to control bleeding, and applying pressure to bleeding sites can help achieve hemostasis.

Choice B rationale:

Applying pressure to bleeding sites is a priority intervention in clients with dengue fever experiencing severe plasma leakage and melena. This helps to control bleeding and prevent further blood loss, which is vital during the critical phase.

Choice C rationale:

Administering acetaminophen for pain relief can be appropriate for clients with dengue fever, especially in the febrile phase when fever and discomfort are prominent. However, during the critical phase with plasma leakage and organ failure, the priority is to manage life-threatening complications like bleeding and hepatic damage.

Choice D rationale:

Providing supplemental oxygen is essential for clients experiencing respiratory distress or hypoxemia. However, in the scenario described, the client's main priority is controlling bleeding and managing organ failure rather than addressing respiratory issues.

Choice A rationale:

Wearing long sleeves and using mosquito repellent is an appropriate preventive measure to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the risk of dengue fever transmission. This statement indicates the client understands the importance of protective measures.

Choice B rationale:

Dengue fever is indeed caused by a virus in the flavivirus genus. This statement demonstrates accurate knowledge of the etiology of the disease.

Choice C rationale:

This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Dengue fever is not transmitted from person to person through close contact. The primary mode of transmission is through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.

Choice D rationale:

There are indeed four serotypes of the dengue virus, and they share genetic similarities. This statement shows an accurate understanding of the virus's characteristics.