Mr. Thomas, who is receiving oral penicillin, reports that he has a sore mouth. On inspection, the nurse notes bright red oral mucous membranes with some white patches. The primary care provider is notified immediately because these symptoms may be caused by:
a Vitamin C deficiency
dehydration
poor oral hygiene
a superinfection
The Correct Answer is D
A. A Vitamin C deficiency:
While a Vitamin C deficiency can lead to oral health issues such as bleeding gums or scurvy, it is less likely to present with bright red oral mucous membranes and white patches. Vitamin C deficiency typically manifests with other symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and joint pain.
B. Dehydration:
Dehydration can cause dry mouth and oral discomfort, but it is less likely to present with bright red oral mucous membranes and white patches. Dehydration may also result in a dry, sticky feeling in the mouth rather than soreness with white patches.
C. Poor oral hygiene:
Poor oral hygiene can lead to various oral health problems, including gingivitis and dental caries, but it is less likely to cause bright red oral mucous membranes with white patches. Poor oral hygiene typically results in plaque accumulation, gum inflammation, and dental decay rather than the specific symptoms described.
D. A superinfection:
This is the correct option. A superinfection occurs when opportunistic microorganisms, such as fungi or resistant bacteria, proliferate and cause infection following antibiotic therapy. Penicillin, like other antibiotics, can disrupt the normal balance of microorganisms in the mouth, allowing opportunistic pathogens to flourish and lead to conditions such as oral thrush (caused by Candida albicans) or oral candidiasis. The presence of bright red oral mucous membranes with white patches suggests the possibility of a superinfection, which warrants immediate attention from the primary care provider for further evaluation and management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. 36 months:
This duration is longer than typical treatment courses for TB. While treatment for drug-resistant TB may require an extended duration, standard treatment for drug-sensitive TB typically lasts for a shorter period.
B. 6-12 months:
This duration is within the typical range for the treatment of drug-sensitive TB. Standard treatment regimens for drug-sensitive TB usually involve a combination of multiple antibiotics taken for 6 to 9 months, sometimes extending up to 12 months depending on factors such as the severity of the disease and the patient's response to treatment.
C. 2-4 weeks:
This duration is too short for the treatment of TB. TB treatment requires a prolonged course of antibiotics to ensure the complete eradication of the bacteria and to prevent the development of drug resistance.
D. 7-10 days:
This duration is too short for the treatment of TB. TB treatment typically lasts for several months rather than days, as it involves a combination of antibiotics taken for an extended period to effectively treat the infection.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. BP 98/62:
A blood pressure of 98/62 mmHg is within the normal range for an adult, although it's slightly lower than the average blood pressure. While monitoring blood pressure is important, this reading doesn't indicate a critical condition and doesn't require immediate intervention.
B. Urticaria:
Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash characterized by raised, itchy welts. While it can be uncomfortable and may indicate an allergic reaction, it's not immediately life-threatening. However, it does warrant attention and further assessment.
C. Wheezing:
Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs during breathing and can indicate airway obstruction, such as in an allergic reaction or asthma exacerbation. Wheezing can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, which requires immediate intervention to ensure the patient's airway remains open and to administer appropriate treatment.
D. Pulse rate 104/min:
A pulse rate of 104 beats per minute (bpm) is slightly elevated but within the normal range for an adult. While it's important to monitor heart rate, this finding alone doesn't indicate an immediate threat to the patient's life.
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