A patient is hospitalized with active tuberculosis (TB). Which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that prescribed airborne precautions are likely to be discontinued?

Choice A reason: Hospitalized patients often have immobility, surgery, or illness, increasing VTE risk via stasis, vessel injury, and hypercoagulability (Virchow’s triad). Studies show up to 60% of VTE cases occur in this setting, confirming the statement.

Choice B reason: False implies low VTE risk in hospitals, contradicting evidence. Inactivity and acute conditions elevate risk significantly, with prophylaxis standard in guidelines, as immobility alone triples clot formation likelihood.

Choice A reason: Ambulation in sickle cell crisis risks worsening pain and ischemia from exertion. Rest preserves oxygen, as sickle hemoglobin clogs vessels; encouraging movement contradicts physiology, delaying recovery in acute vaso-occlusion.

Choice B reason: Opioids relieve severe pain in sickle cell crisis from vaso-occlusion. Evaluating their effect ensures adequate control, as pain signals ongoing tissue hypoxia, guiding dose adjustments for comfort and healing.

Choice C reason: High-protein, high-calorie diets support chronic sickle cell needs, not acute crisis. Teaching this now is secondary, as pain and hydration take priority over nutrition education during active vaso-occlusive events.

Choice D reason: Limiting fluids worsens sickle cell crisis by increasing blood viscosity, promoting sickling. Hydration (IV/oral) dilutes hemoglobin S, improving flow, so restriction contradicts evidence-based crisis management principles.