Which finding indicates that the patient's condition is improving?
Temperature of 101.8°F
WBC count of 17.500/mm3
Resp. rate of 28
Oxygen saturation of 94% on 2L/nasal cannula
The Correct Answer is D
A. Temperature of 101.8°F: A temperature above 100.4°F indicates continued fever and inflammation, suggesting the infection is still active. A persistent fever does not reflect clinical improvement and may warrant further assessment or intervention.
B. WBC count of 17,500/mm³: An elevated white blood cell count suggests ongoing infection or inflammation. Normal WBC counts typically range from 4,000 to 11,000/mm³. This elevated value indicates the body is still actively fighting an illness.
C. Respiratory rate of 28: A normal adult respiratory rate is 12–20 breaths per minute. A rate of 28 suggests the patient is still experiencing respiratory distress, possibly due to hypoxia or infection, which does not indicate improvement.
D. Oxygen saturation of 94% on 2L/nasal cannula: An SpO₂ of 94% on low-flow oxygen shows that the patient is maintaining adequate oxygenation with minimal support. This indicates an improving respiratory status and better gas exchange, reflecting clinical progress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Place a mask over the patient's nose and mouth:When a patient with active TB leaves the isolation room, they must wear a surgical mask to prevent airborne transmission. This protects others from inhaling Mycobacterium tuberculosisin shared spaces.
B. Notify the x-ray department that the test must be cancelled:There is no need to cancel the diagnostic test. Proper precautions like masking the patient enable safe transport and continuation of necessary medical care.
C. Place a gown and gloves on the patient:Gowns and gloves are used for contact precautions, not airborne. TB transmission is airborne, and a surgical mask is the appropriate protective measure for the patient not gowning or gloving.
D. Call the x-ray department to make sure the waiting room is empty:While minimizing exposure is ideal, it is not sufficient or necessary if the patient wears a mask. Standard protocol centers on masking the patient and notifying departments of isolation status, not on room occupancy control.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Sputum culture for AFB: A sputum culture for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) is the definitive diagnostic test for active tuberculosis. It confirms the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by identifying and culturing the bacteria from sputum, which is the most reliable confirmation of disease.
B. Chest x-ray: A chest x-ray can show lung abnormalities consistent with TB, such as cavitations or infiltrates, but it cannot confirm active infection. It is useful for supporting diagnosis but must be interpreted alongside microbiological tests.
C. Mantoux test: The Mantoux (PPD) test identifies TB exposure by measuring delayed hypersensitivity, but it does not distinguish between latent and active infection. A positive result requires further testing to confirm active disease.
D. Pulmonary function test: Pulmonary function tests assess lung capacity and airflow but are not used for diagnosing tuberculosis. They may be used later to evaluate lung impairment but have no role in confirming TB.
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