The nurse is monitoring the effectiveness or antiretroviral therapy (ART) for a patient with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). What laboratory study results indicates the medications are effective?
Increased viral load
Decreased neutrophil count
Decreased white blood cell count
Increased CD4-T-cell count
The Correct Answer is D
A) "Increased viral load":
An increased viral load would indicate that the HIV virus is actively replicating in the body. This suggests that the antiretroviral therapy (ART) is not effective, as it has failed to suppress the viral replication. The goal of ART is to lower the viral load to undetectable levels, indicating that the virus is well controlled.
B) "Decreased neutrophil count":
. A decreased neutrophil count (neutropenia) is not directly related to the effectiveness of ART in managing HIV. Neutropenia can occur due to various causes, such as certain medications (including some ART medications), infections, or other underlying conditions. While neutropenia could be a side effect of ART, it does not directly reflect the effectiveness of HIV treatment. Monitoring CD4-T-cell counts and viral load is a better indicator of ART effectiveness.
C) "Decreased white blood cell count":
. A decreased white blood cell count (leukopenia) is also not an indicator of ART effectiveness. While some ART medications may lead to a decrease in white blood cell count, especially in the early stages of treatment, a decrease in the white blood cell count is not a measure of how well the therapy is controlling HIV. The effectiveness of ART is primarily assessed by the viral load and CD4-T-cell count.
D) "Increased CD4-T-cell count":
. CD4-T-cell count is a critical marker for monitoring the immune system's function in patients with HIV. CD4-T-cells are a type of T lymphocyte (white blood cell) that are targeted and destroyed by the HIV virus. A higher CD4-T-cell count indicates that the immune system is recovering and functioning better, which is a sign that the ART is effective in controlling the virus. Ideally, ART should result in a higher CD4-T-cell count and lower viral load, showing that the treatment is effectively suppressing the virus and preserving the immune system.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. 2+ pedal edema bilaterally:
While 2+ pedal edema (a mild level of swelling in the feet and ankles) is concerning, it is not an immediate emergency in the context of hyponatremia. Edema can be seen in various conditions, including fluid retention associated with hyponatremia, but it does not require urgent intervention unless it is severe or worsening. This finding would warrant monitoring but does not require immediate action.
B. Blood pressure at 107/82:
A blood pressure reading of 107/82 mmHg is within normal limits, although on the lower end of the spectrum. This is not a concerning finding in this case and does not suggest a need for immediate intervention. The nurse should continue to monitor the client, but this blood pressure reading alone is not an emergency.
C. Urine output of 460 mL in 24 hours:
A urine output of 460 mL in 24 hours is low, indicating oliguria (decreased urine output), which can occur in cases of hyponatremia due to fluid retention. However, unless the urine output is worsening or associated with other signs of acute kidney injury or severe fluid overload, this finding alone does not require immediate intervention. It is something that should be monitored and further investigated.
D. Disorientation:
Disorientation in the elderly client with hyponatremia is a critical finding that requires immediate intervention. Hyponatremia can lead to cerebral edema (brain swelling), which results in altered mental status, including confusion, disorientation, or seizures. These symptoms indicate that the hyponatremia may be severe enough to affect neurological function and requires prompt correction to avoid further complications, such as coma or permanent brain damage. Immediate intervention to address the underlying cause of the hyponatremia and restore sodium balance is crucial.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Midazolam is a benzodiazepine commonly used for the emergency treatment of seizures, including tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures. It works by enhancing GABA activity in the brain, helping to stop seizure activity quickly. It can be administered intravenously (IV), intramuscularly (IM), or intranasally in emergencies.
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