Which of the following is the most reliable early indicator of infection in a client with low WBC?
Fever
Chills
Tachycardia
Dyspnea
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Fever is the most reliable early indicator of infection in a client with low WBC because it is a direct physiologic response to the presence of pathogens. When the body detects an infection, it releases pyrogens, which act on the hypothalamus to raise the body's temperature. This elevated temperature helps to create an environment that is less hospitable to bacteria and viruses, and it also stimulates the immune system to fight the infection.
In clients with low WBC, the immune system is already compromised, so the fever response may be even more pronounced. It's important to note that even a slight elevation in temperature (as low as 100.4°F or 38°C) can be significant in these clients.

Choice B rationale:
Chills can also be a sign of infection, but they are not as specific as fever. Chills can occur for other reasons, such as exposure to cold or anxiety.
Choice C rationale:
Tachycardia, or increased heart rate, can also be a sign of infection, but it is not as reliable as fever. Tachycardia can occur for other reasons, such as dehydration, pain, or anxiety.
Choice D rationale:
Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is not a typical early sign of infection. It is more likely to occur in later stages of infection, when the infection has spread to the lungs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Loosening the patient's clothing around the neck and chest promotes easier breathing during the seizure. It also prevents potential injury from constrictive clothing that could restrict movement or circulation.
Choice B rationale:
Easing the patient to the floor if they are standing helps to prevent falls and injuries that could occur due to loss of consciousness and muscle control during the seizure. It's crucial to guide the patient gently to the floor to avoid abrupt movements that could trigger or worsen the seizure.
Choice C rationale:
Restraining the patient during a seizure is not recommended as it can cause harm. Attempting to restrain a patient's movements during a seizure can lead to muscle strains, joint injuries, or even fractures. It can also increase anxiety and agitation, potentially prolonging the seizure.
Choice D rationale:
Protecting the patient's mouth with a padded tongue blade is not necessary and can even be dangerous. It was once a common practice, but it's now discouraged as it can cause oral injuries, obstruct the airway, or induce vomiting.
Choice E rationale:
Providing privacy helps to protect the patient's dignity and reduce any potential embarrassment during the seizure. It also creates a calmer and less stimulating environment, which can be beneficial in managing the seizure.
Correct Answer is ["033"]
Explanation
Step 1 is to calculate the number of milliliters (mL) that contain the ordered dose of 300 mg of clindamycin.
Step 2 is to divide the total milliliters (mL) from Step 1 by the infusion time in minutes to get the flow rate in mL/hour. Here are the calculations:
Step 1:
900 mg of clindamycin is in 50 mL.
To find the mL that contain 300 mg, set up a proportion:
(300 mg / 900 mg) = (x mL / 50 mL) Cross-multiply and solve for x:
x = (300 mg * 50 mL) / 900 mg x = 16.67 mL
Step 2:
The infusion time is 30 minutes.
Divide the total mL (16.67 mL) by the infusion time in hours to get the flow rate in mL/hour: Flow rate = 16.67 mL / (30 minutes / 60 minutes/hour)
Flow rate = 33.33 mL/hour
Round to the nearest whole number, using a leading zero if it applies, and no trailing zero: Flow rate = 033 mL/hour
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