A nurse is learning about the Institute of Medicine (IOM) (now National Academy of Medicine (NAM)) characteristics of Healthcare Quality.

Which of the following best describes the characteristics of the efficiency domain in Healthcare Quality initiatives?

Choice A rationale
While being able to drink water through a straw without choking is a positive sign, it is not the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. The primary indicator is the return of the patient’s cough and swallowing reflexes.
Choice B rationale
The patient has intact cough and swallowing reflexes is the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. These reflexes are essential for preventing aspiration, which can lead to pneumonia.
Choice C rationale
While clear breath sounds upon auscultation are a positive sign, they are not the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. The primary indicator is the return of the patient’s cough and swallowing reflexes.
Choice D rationale
The absence of a sore throat is not the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. The primary indicator is the return of the patient’s cough and swallowing reflexes.

Choice A rationale
While it’s possible for a virus to reactivate in the body, this is not typically the case with the common cold. The common cold is a viral infection primarily in the nose, with most people recovering in seven to ten days.
Choice B rationale
While it’s true that cold season tends to end as the weather warms up, this doesn’t address the patient’s concern about their repeated colds. It’s important to note that colds are caused by viruses, which can be spread year-round, although they are more common in the colder months.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct answer. The common cold is indeed a virus that can be spread by a person two days before they experience any symptoms. This means that people can spread the virus before they know they’re sick, which can make it difficult to avoid catching a cold.
Choice D rationale
While wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of viruses, it’s not typically necessary for someone who is simply sensitive to colds. Masks are more commonly recommended for people who are already sick to prevent them from spreading the virus, or for people who are at high risk of serious complications from the cold.