A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who has the hepatitis A virus.
Which of the following modes of transmission should the nurse identify as how the client acquired the virus?

Choice A rationale

Administering IV fluids as prescribed can be essential for maintaining fluid balance, but it does not directly address abnormal vital signs unless they are linked to hypovolemia. The nurse should prioritize identifying the cause of the abnormalities first, and then proceed with interventions aimed at stabilization and correction.

Choice B rationale

Placing the client in a supine position can exacerbate certain conditions, such as respiratory distress or hypoxia. While position changes may be needed in specific cases, this is not a primary action for addressing abnormal vital signs unless positional changes are directly implicated.

Choice C rationale

Monitoring for signs of infection is an important ongoing care strategy, especially when abnormal findings suggest potential sepsis. However, it alone does not resolve immediate concerns with abnormal vital signs and must be paired with communication and treatment strategies.

Choice D rationale

Promptly notifying the provider about abnormal findings ensures that the client's condition is evaluated comprehensively. Providers can order additional assessments or interventions to address potential underlying issues, thereby preventing clinical deterioration.

Choice A rationale

Cracks at the corners of the mouth, or cheilosis, are often associated with nutritional deficiencies like iron or vitamin B deficiencies. Monitoring for these cracks helps diagnose and treat the underlying condition.

Choice B rationale

A reddened tongue is typically associated with vitamin B12 deficiency or other conditions but not cheilosis. It can help identify a different deficiency or condition.

Choice C rationale

Pale conjunctiva is an indicator of anemia but does not specifically correlate with cheilosis. It suggests reduced hemoglobin levels due to iron deficiency.

Choice D rationale

Brittle fingernails may result from chronic iron deficiency anemia but are not directly related to cheilosis. They serve as additional evidence of prolonged anemia.