The nurse is preparing communication for a provider. The client is experiencing acute pain in the anterior forearm. Distal to the injury, he is experiencing a "pins and needles" sensation. The pulse is weak and the skin is pale. The nurse suspects an emergent condition. What is it?

Choice A reason: A susceptible host is not an infectious disease, but a factor that influences the transmission of an infectious disease. A susceptible host is a person who is vulnerable to infection due to factors such as age, health status, immunization, or genetic predisposition. A susceptible host may become infected by a communicable disease, but it is not the disease itself.

Choice B reason: A communicable disease is an infectious disease that can be transmitted directly from one person to another. A communicable disease is caused by a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite, that can spread through contact, droplet, airborne, vector, or vehicle transmission. Examples of communicable diseases are influenza, tuberculosis, measles, malaria, and HIV/AIDS.

Choice C reason: A portal of entry to a host is not an infectious disease, but a factor that influences the transmission of an infectious disease. A portal of entry to a host is a route through which a pathogen can enter the body of a susceptible host and cause infection. A portal of entry to a host may be a break in the skin, a mucous membrane, or a body opening, such as the mouth, nose, eyes, or genitals. A portal of entry to a host may facilitate the transmission of a communicable disease, but it is not the disease itself.

Choice D reason: A portal of exit from the reservoir is not an infectious disease, but a factor that influences the transmission of an infectious disease. A portal of exit from the reservoir is a route through which a pathogen can leave the body of an infected person or animal and reach another susceptible host. A portal of exit from the reservoir may be a body fluid, such as blood, saliva, urine, or feces, or a body part, such as the skin, hair, or nails. A portal of exit from the reservoir may enable the transmission of a communicable disease, but it is not the disease itself.

Choice A reason: This is the priority nursing intervention because it helps to prevent infection, which is a major complication and risk factor for mortality in clients with lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues. Steroids are used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, but they also increase the susceptibility to infection. The nurse should wash their hands before and after contact with the client and follow standard precautions to reduce the transmission of microorganisms.

Choice B reason: This is not the priority nursing intervention, but it is a good intervention to promote the psychosocial health of the client. Lupus can affect the client's selfesteem, mood, and social relationships, especially during a flareup, which is a period of increased symptoms and activity of the disease. The nurse should assist with the enhancement of social wellbeing by providing activities that are appropriate for the client's physical and mental condition, such as reading, listening to music, or talking with friends and family.

Choice C reason: This is not the priority nursing intervention, but it is a good intervention to evaluate the client's coping and support resources. Lupus can be a chronic and unpredictable disease that can cause stress, anxiety, and depression in the client. The nurse should assess the client's support system, such as family, friends, or community groups, that can provide emotional, practical, and financial assistance to the client. The nurse should also refer the client to counseling, support groups, or other services as needed.

Choice D reason: This is not the priority nursing intervention, but it is a good intervention to respect the client's dignity and autonomy. Lupus can affect the client's appearance, mobility, and independence, which can make them feel vulnerable and embarrassed. The nurse should ensure privacy by keeping the door always closed, unless the client requests otherwise, and by knocking and asking for permission before entering the room. The nurse should also cover the client with a blanket or gown and expose only the necessary body parts during assessment or procedures.