The nurse is caring for a patient with the sexually transmitted infection (STI) gonorrhea. The patient reports having multiple sexual partners.
What response should the nurse provide?

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale

Anthrax is a serious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a bacterium that forms spores. Certain occupations, such as those involving livestock or animal products, may increase the risk of exposure to anthrax spores.

Choice B rationale

While it’s important to identify personal contacts in the case of some infectious diseases, anthrax is not spread from person to person. Therefore, identifying personal contacts over the past week would not necessarily help to rule out exposure to anthrax spores.

Choice C rationale

A twenty-four-hour diet history would not typically be useful in ruling out exposure to anthrax spores. Anthrax is not usually spread through food or water.

Choice D rationale

Inquiring about previous vaccination for smallpox would not help to rule out exposure to anthrax spores. Smallpox and anthrax are caused by different organisms, and the smallpox vaccine does not provide protection against anthrax.

Answer and explanation

The correct answers are Choices A, B, C, D, and E.

Choice A rationale

Feeding assistance may be necessary for an older adult with Parkinson’s disease due to motor symptoms like tremors or stiffness that can make self-feeding difficult. Special utensils and other dining aids can help these individuals maintain their independence during meals.

Choice B rationale

People with Parkinson’s disease can experience changes in their skin, such as becoming oily or flaky. While the term “fragile skin” is not typically used in the context of Parkinson’s, these individuals may have skin that is more susceptible to damage due to these changes.

Choice C rationale

Parkinson’s disease often leads to motor symptoms such as stiff muscles and balance impairment, which can increase the risk of falls. Therefore, measures to prevent falls should be a key part of the care plan for an older adult with Parkinson’s disease.

Choice D rationale

Chronic pain is twice as common in people with Parkinson’s disease as it is in people without the condition. This pain can be caused by various factors, including muscle stiffness and dystonia (painful muscle spasms), and should be addressed in the client’s care plan.

Choice E rationale

Depression is more common in people with Parkinson’s disease compared to the general population. It’s important to monitor for signs of depression in these individuals and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.