The quality and risk nurse in the local hospital is performing a hospital survey on sentinel events. Which statement would the nurse use to best describe a sentinel event?

Choice A reason: A temperature of 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit is a sign of fever, which is a common symptom of infection. Clients with AIDS have a weakened immune system and are more susceptible to opportunistic infections. Fever indicates that the body is trying to fight off an infection.

Choice B reason: An oxygen saturation of 97% on room air is within the normal range and does not indicate infection. Oxygen saturation measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is bound to oxygen in the blood. A low oxygen saturation may indicate respiratory problems, such as pneumonia, which is a common infection in clients with AIDS.

Choice C reason: A respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute is slightly above the normal range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute, but it does not necessarily indicate infection. Respiratory rate may vary depending on factors such as activity level, stress, pain, or anxiety. A high respiratory rate may indicate respiratory distress, which could be caused by infection or other conditions.

Choice D reason: Purulent drainage is a thick, yellowgreen, or brown pus that indicates infection. It may come from a wound, an abscess, or a body cavity. Purulent drainage is a sign of inflammation and infection and should be reported to the health care provider.

Choice E reason: A client's ability to ambulate 20 feet is not related to infection. Ambulation is a measure of mobility and function and may be affected by factors such as pain, fatigue, or muscle weakness. Ambulation does not reflect the presence or absence of infection.

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.