A nurse is discussing HIV with a newly licensed nurse.
Which cell types should the nurse identify as impacted by the virus?
Eosinophils.
B cells.
Neutrophils.
CD4 cells.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Eosinophils are granulocytes primarily involved in the defense against parasites and in the mediation of allergic reactions by releasing inflammatory mediators. While their numbers might be affected by the overall immune status, they are not the specific target cells that the HIV virus directly infects and destroys to cause immunodeficiency.
Choice B rationale
B cells are key components of the humoral immune system, responsible for producing antibodies against specific antigens. While their function is indirectly impaired as HIV compromises the CD4 T-cell helper function, they are not the primary cell type that the HIV virus directly enters and destroys to replicate itself.
Choice C rationale
Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are critical for phagocytosis and defense against bacterial and fungal infections. They are not the specific cells that HIV targets and infects; their function remains relatively intact, although their numbers may fluctuate secondary to opportunistic infections.
Choice D rationale
CD4 cells, also known as T_4 or helper T cells, are the primary target and host cell for the HIV virus. The virus utilizes the CD4 receptor to gain entry, replicates within the cell, and ultimately causes cell death, leading to profound immunosuppression and the clinical manifestation of AIDS.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pregnancy represents a significant physiological stressor and hormonal fluctuation, specifically elevated estrogen levels, which are hypothesized to increase B-lymphocyte activity and autoantibody production, potentially disrupting the T-cell balance. This hormonal shift often leads to exacerbation, particularly of lupus nephritis and thrombotic events, thus requiring careful monitoring and management throughout the gestation period.
Choice B rationale
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, such as sunlight, is a well-established trigger for SLE flares. UV radiation damages keratinocytes, inducing apoptosis and releasing nuclear antigens which become accessible to the immune system. This provokes an inflammatory cascade, resulting in characteristic skin manifestations and systemic disease activity.
Choice C rationale
Infection is a common precipitant of SLE exacerbations because the infectious agent activates the immune system broadly, leading to a breakdown in self-tolerance. The resultant systemic inflammation, cytokine release, and potential for molecular mimicry can induce or worsen organ damage, necessitating prompt identification and aggressive antimicrobial therapy.
Choice D rationale
Regular, moderate-intensity exercise is generally considered beneficial for individuals with SLE, helping to improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce fatigue, and manage associated musculoskeletal pain. While excessive physical stress could theoretically trigger a flare, moderate exercise does not typically exacerbate the disease and is usually encouraged as part of the overall treatment plan.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Unprotected sexual activity, particularly anal or vaginal intercourse, poses a high risk of HIV transmission because the virus is present in semen and vaginal fluid. Lack of a barrier method, such as a condom, allows the exchange of these fluids containing infected CD4 cells and virus particles across mucosal membranes, leading to infection.
Choice B rationale
Sharing needles, syringes, or other injection equipment when using intravenous drugs is a major risk factor. This practice directly transfers blood from an infected person into the bloodstream of an uninfected person, allowing the direct inoculation of the HIV virus, which has a high concentration in the blood.
Choice C rationale
Sexual assault significantly increases the risk of HIV transmission due to the potential for the exchange of blood or body fluids and the high likelihood of mucosal trauma (tears or abrasions) during the assault. This trauma provides an easier entry point for the virus into the recipient's bloodstream, facilitating infection.
Choice D rationale
Exposure to blood or certain body fluids (semen, vaginal and rectal secretions, breast milk, or other body fluid containing visible blood) from a person with HIV is the route of transmission. This includes percutaneous exposure (needlestick), mucous membrane contact, or non-intact skin contact with the fluid containing the virus, which then enters the recipient's system.
Choice E rationale
Smoking marijuana is not a direct route for the transmission of the HIV virus. HIV is transmitted through specific body fluids, primarily blood, semen, vaginal and rectal secretions, and breast milk, during activities like unprotected sex or sharing needles. Marijuana use does not involve these fluid exchanges.
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