A nurse is providing care to a client who has a history of asthma. The client presents with influenza symptoms that started the previous day. The provider orders an influenza test and prescribes an oral antiviral with instructions to begin the treatment as soon as possible. The client asks the nurse whether they can take the antiviral before the lab results are back. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?
"No, you should wait for lab confirmation because taking antivirals for a nonviral infection can increase side effects."
"No, you should wait for lab confirmation before beginning antiviral treatment, to prevent resistant viruses."
"Yes, antiviral treatment will ensure that you are less contagious and do not spread influenza to others."
"Yes, antiviral treatments are most effective when they are started within 48 hours of symptom onset."
The Correct Answer is D
A. "No, you should wait for lab confirmation because taking antivirals for a nonviral infection can increase side effects.": While unnecessary use of antivirals can lead to side effects, prompt treatment in high-risk individuals (such as those with asthma) is crucial to mitigate complications, making this response less appropriate.
B. "No, you should wait for lab confirmation before beginning antiviral treatment, to prevent resistant viruses.": Delaying treatment in high-risk populations is not recommended as antivirals are most effective early in the course of the illness. This statement does not consider the urgency of treating influenza in vulnerable clients.
C. "Yes, antiviral treatment will ensure that you are less contagious and do not spread influenza to others.": While antivirals can reduce viral shedding, this response overlooks the critical importance of early treatment in reducing the severity of the illness and preventing complications.
D. "Yes, antiviral treatments are most effective when they are started within 48 hours of symptom onset.": Antivirals are most effective when initiated within 48 hours of the onset of influenza symptoms, especially in individuals with underlying conditions like asthma. Starting treatment early can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, making this the most appropriate response.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Dyspnea: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing is a hallmark symptom of COPD, commonly reported by patients.
B. Chronic cough: A persistent cough, often productive, is a common manifestation of COPD, reflecting the chronic inflammation and irritation of the airways.
C. Wheezing: Wheezing, a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing, is often present in COPD due to airway narrowing and obstruction.
D. Sputum production: Increased production of sputum (mucus) is typical in COPD, as the chronic inflammation leads to mucus hypersecretion.
E. Chest tightness: While chest tightness can occur in COPD, it is less common compared to the more prominent symptoms of dyspnea, chronic cough, wheezing, and sputum production.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Sputum culture: A sputum culture is the definitive diagnostic test for tuberculosis (TB). It involves collecting a sample of the patient’s sputum and testing it for the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes TB. This test confirms active TB infection and is critical in guiding treatment.
B. Chest x-ray: A chest x-ray can show abnormalities in the lungs that may suggest TB, such as infiltrates or cavities, but it cannot confirm the diagnosis. It is often used as a supporting diagnostic tool alongside other tests.
C. Tuberculin skin test: The tuberculin skin test (TST) is used to identify latent TB infection, not active TB. A positive result indicates that a person has been exposed to TB bacteria, but it does not confirm active disease.
D. Bronchoscopy: Bronchoscopy allows for direct visualization of the airways and collection of samples, but it is not the standard diagnostic test for confirming TB. Sputum culture remains the gold standard for diagnosis.
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