Which intervention should the nurse prioritize for a client with a suspected influenza infection?
Administer antiviral medication within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
Offer decongestants to suppress cough and reduce fever.
Advise the client to take antihistamines for symptom relief.
Prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Administer antiviral medication within the first 48 hours of symptom onset: Neuraminidase inhibitors like oseltamivir are most effective when started early to inhibit viral replication and reduce the duration of symptoms. This intervention directly targets the pathogen and can prevent severe complications. Timely administration is a hallmark of evidence-based influenza management.
B. Offer decongestants to suppress cough and reduce fever: Decongestants primarily treat nasal congestion and do not affect viral replication or the underlying disease process. While they may provide temporary symptomatic relief, they are not a priority over antiviral therapy. They also do not possess antipyretic properties for fever reduction.
C. Advise the client to take antihistamines for symptom relief: Antihistamines are indicated for allergic reactions and have little therapeutic value in the management of viral influenza. They may cause unwanted side effects like sedation or drying of the respiratory mucosa. Their use in influenza is generally not supported by clinical guidelines.
D. Prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections: Influenza is a viral illness, and antibiotics have no effect on viruses. Prescribing them prophylactically is an inappropriate use of medication that contributes to antibiotic resistance. They are only indicated if a secondary bacterial pneumonia is clinically confirmed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Provide information about therapeutic touch and consult with the care team regarding its implementation:The nurse should respect patient autonomy and investigate evidence-based non-pharmacological options. Consulting with the multidisciplinary team ensures the therapy is safe and integrated into the overall clinical plan. This promotes patient-centered care while maintaining professional standards and safety.
B. Include therapeutic touch in the care plan without consulting the patient:Implementing any therapy without patient consent violates the ethical principle of autonomy and the legal requirement for informed consent. The care plan must be a collaborative effort between the provider and the client. Nurses must discuss all interventions before they are added to the chart.
C. Discourage the patient from pursuing non-conventional methods:Dismissing a patient's interest in complementary therapies can damage the therapeutic relationship and cause the patient to withhold information. If the therapy is safe, it can be a valuable adjunct to conventional pain management. The nurse should be an objective resource rather than a barrier.
D. Refer the patient to seek advice outside of the health care system:This approach fragments care and may lead the patient to seek unsafe or unregulated practitioners. The nurse's role is to facilitate safe integration within the healthcare system whenever possible. Directing the patient away prevents the clinical team from monitoring for interactions or outcomes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Physical or body-based and manipulation: Reflexology involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears that correspond to different body organs. This manual manipulation of soft tissue places it in the same category as massage and chiropractic therapy. It relies on physical contact to stimulate a physiological response.
B. Energy healing therapies: Energy therapies, such as Reiki or therapeutic touch, focus on manipulating invisible biofields or energy channels around the body. Reflexology is based on the physical stimulation of anatomical zones rather than the transfer of energy. It is a tactile, pressure-based modality rather than an energetic one.
C. Mind-body therapies: These therapies, like meditation or guided imagery, use cognitive techniques to influence physical health. While reflexology promotes relaxation, its primary mechanism is the physical stimulation of reflex points by a practitioner. It does not require specific mental exercises or cognitive focus from the patient.
D. Biological-based therapies: This category includes the use of natural substances such as herbs, vitamins, and special diets to treat illness. Reflexology does not involve the ingestion or topical application of biological agents. It is a manipulative technique performed on the external surface of the body.
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