A nurse is caring for an 11-year-old child who presents to the emergency department with a mild cough and malaise that have been present for 1 week and an oral temperature of 38.1° C (100.6° F). After gathering a history, the nurse suspects pertussis. Which of the following should the nurse anticipate the healthcare provider to prescribe to aid in the rapid diagnosis of pertussis?
Polymerase chain reaction test
Pulmonary function testing (PFT)
CT scan
Chest x-ray
The Correct Answer is A
A. Polymerase chain reaction test: PCR testing is the preferred method for rapidly detecting Bordetella pertussis DNA. It is highly sensitive and can confirm the diagnosis early in the course of illness, allowing prompt initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy.
B. Pulmonary function testing (PFT): PFTs assess lung function and are used for chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, not for diagnosing acute infections like pertussis.
C. CT scan: Computed tomography is not indicated for routine diagnosis of pertussis. It is reserved for evaluating complex or severe pulmonary conditions and provides more detail than necessary for bacterial infection identification.
D. Chest x-ray: A chest x-ray may help rule out pneumonia or other complications but cannot confirm pertussis. Imaging is supportive, not diagnostic, for pertussis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Formula feeding is easier and will let you get more rest, so it's definitely the better option now.": This statement introduces personal judgment and implies superiority of one feeding method over another. It may invalidate the mother’s autonomy and oversimplifies infant feeding decisions. Nursing communication should remain neutral and supportive rather than directive or comparative.
B. "I can help you learn how to properly prepare and safely store formula to ensure your infant receives safe nutrition.": This response respects the mother’s informed choice while prioritizing infant safety and adequate nutrition. Teaching correct formula preparation, dilution, and storage reduces the risk of infection, electrolyte imbalance, and inadequate caloric intake. It reflects patient-centered, nonjudgmental nursing care.
C. "Since formula feeding is not as beneficial as breastfeeding, you should only use it as a last resort.": This statement is judgmental and may increase parental guilt or distress. While breastfeeding has immunologic benefits, formula feeding can fully support normal growth when used correctly. Nursing support should focus on safe feeding practices rather than persuasion.
D. "Breastfeeding provides better immunity, so I strongly recommend you reconsider and continue breastfeeding.": This response disregards the mother’s decision and undermines autonomy. Pressuring the parent may damage trust and does not address the immediate need for education on formula use. Supportive counseling should align with the family’s chosen feeding method.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "ACP helps clients decide the preferred location of death and advance directives.": While ACP may include discussions about goals of care and preferences, it is broader than end-of-life location alone. The primary focus is on documenting decision-making authority and treatment preferences should capacity be lost. Limiting ACP to location of death oversimplifies its scope.
B. "ACP is invalid if the client chooses curative treatment.": Advanced care planning remains appropriate regardless of whether the client is receiving curative, life-prolonging, or palliative treatment. ACP supports ongoing decision-making across the illness trajectory. Choosing curative treatment does not negate or invalidate ACP.
C. "ACP are legal documents that go into effect if clients are unable to make decisions.": ACP includes advance directives and durable powers of attorney that guide care when a client lacks decision-making capacity. These documents ensure that healthcare choices align with the client’s values and previously expressed wishes. This statement accurately reflects the legal and clinical purpose of ACP.
D. "ACP does not take into account the individual's cultural influences.": Cultural, spiritual, and personal values are central to advanced care planning discussions. ACP is designed to respect and incorporate these influences into healthcare decision-making. Excluding cultural considerations contradicts the foundational principles of ACP.
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