A nurse is caring for a client with cellulitis. Which statement by the nurse accurately describes the pathophysiology of cellulitis?
"Cellulitis occurs when the skin's protective barrier is compromised.".
"Cellulitis is primarily caused by a viral infection.".
"Cellulitis leads to increased blood clot formation.".
"Cellulitis results in excessive sweating in the affected area.".
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Cellulitis occurs when the skin's protective barrier is compromised.
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that occurs when bacteria enter the skin through a break or opening in the protective barrier, such as a cut, wound, or insect bite.
The bacteria then multiply in the underlying tissues, leading to inflammation, redness, warmth, swelling, and pain.
Choice A is correct because it accurately describes the pathophysiology of cellulitis, emphasizing the importance of a compromised skin barrier in its development.
Choice B rationale:
Cellulitis is primarily caused by a viral infection.
This statement is incorrect.
Cellulitis is primarily caused by bacterial infections, commonly by Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species.
Viruses do not typically cause cellulitis.
Choice C rationale:
Cellulitis leads to increased blood clot formation.
This statement is incorrect.
Cellulitis does not lead to increased blood clot formation.
Instead, it causes inflammation and infection in the skin and underlying tissues.
Choice D rationale:
Cellulitis results in excessive sweating in the affected area.
This statement is incorrect.
Cellulitis does not result in excessive sweating.
It causes localized symptoms such as redness, warmth, swelling, and pain, but sweating is not a characteristic feature of cellulitis.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering anticoagulant medication is not an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with a skin infection.
Anticoagulants are used to prevent or treat blood clots and have no direct relevance to managing a skin infection.
Choice B rationale:
Elevating the affected limb is an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with a skin infection.
Elevation can help reduce swelling and improve circulation to the affected area, which can aid in the healing process.
Choice C rationale:
Applying warm compresses is a suitable nursing intervention for a skin infection, as it can help promote blood flow to the affected area, alleviate pain, and potentially aid in the drainage of any abscesses or pus.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging frequent ambulation may or may not be appropriate, depending on the severity and location of the skin infection.
While ambulation can be beneficial for preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in some cases, it may not be suitable if the infection is in an area where movement exacerbates symptoms or if the patient's overall condition is too compromised.
Choice E rationale:
Administering NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain relief is generally appropriate for a patient with a skin infection, as it can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
However, it should be used in conjunction with other appropriate interventions like warm compresses and elevation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Stopping antibiotics once the symptoms improve is not recommended in the treatment of cellulitis.
It's important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
Prematurely discontinuing antibiotics can result in the infection not being completely eradicated, leading to potential recurrence and antibiotic resistance.
Choice B rationale:
Skipping doses of antibiotics can indeed affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
Consistency in taking antibiotics as prescribed is crucial to ensure that the bacteria causing the infection are completely eradicated.
Skipping doses can allow bacteria to survive and potentially develop resistance to the antibiotics.
Choice C rationale:
Completing the full course of antibiotics is the correct response.
This ensures that the infection is completely eradicated and reduces the risk of recurrence.
It also helps prevent the development of antibiotic resistance, which is a significant concern in healthcare.
Choice D rationale:
Sharing antibiotics with a family member is not advisable.
Antibiotics should only be taken by the individual for whom they are prescribed, and sharing antibiotics can lead to inappropriate use, potential adverse effects, and antibiotic resistance.
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