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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. "I have cared for patients who were able to have the tracheostomy reversed. While this may offer hope, it shifts the focus to long-term outcomes rather than addressing the patient's current emotional state. Not all tracheostomies are reversible, and offering this reassurance prematurely may set unrealistic expectations.

B. “I understand that you might be apprehensive." This statement acknowledges the patient's anxiety and fosters trust. Demonstrating empathy helps reduce emotional distress, encourages open communication, and supports emotional adaptation to the tracheostomy.

C. “I will be efficient and give care quickly." Although efficiency is important, this response may come off as dismissive of the patient's emotional needs. It prioritizes task completion over patient-centered care and fails to address the underlying anxiety.

D. "I will wait until your tracheostomy heals before teaching." Teaching should begin early, even in small steps, to help the patient gradually understand and adapt to tracheostomy care. Delaying education may increase fear, uncertainty, and dependence on others for care.

A. Physical therapy for homebound therapy services B. Occupational therapy for job retraining C. Community social worker for Meals on Wheels D. Visiting Nurses for directly observed therapy

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Physical therapy for homebound therapy services:Physical therapy is not routinely indicated in TB management unless the patient has specific mobility deficits. TB treatment focuses more on medication adherence and infection control rather than physical rehabilitation.

B. Occupational therapy for job retraining:There is no direct indication for job retraining in a TB patient unless the illness has caused long-term disability or affected occupational function, which is not suggested in this scenario.

C. Community social worker for Meals on Wheels:Meals on Wheels may assist with nutrition, but it is not specific to TB care. Social services do not directly ensure adherence to TB therapy, which is crucial for treatment success and public health safety.

D. Visiting Nurses for directly observed therapy:Directly observed therapy (DOT) ensures the client takes prescribed TB medications under supervision, which is essential to prevent noncompliance, reduce drug resistance, and promote cure. Visiting nurses are best positioned to provide this support during long-term outpatient TB treatment.

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Which finding indicates that the patient's condition is improving?

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