Which patients are at an increased risk for developing a hospital-acquired infection? (Select all that apply)
An 80-year-old patient admitted from a long-term care facility
A 36-year-old patient from a group home recently diagnosed with HIV
A 40-year-old patient with a history of depression
An 86-year-old patient admitted from home who has been sick multiple times this year
A 55-year-old patient admitted for elective knee surgery with no comorbidities
Correct Answer : A,B,D
Choice A reason: Elderly patients admitted from long-term care facilities are at high risk for hospital-acquired infections due to frequent exposure to healthcare environments, colonization with resistant organisms, and age-related immune decline. Long-term care residents often have indwelling devices such as catheters or feeding tubes, which further increase infection risk. Their frailty and comorbidities make them more susceptible to complications once infected.
Choice B reason: Patients with HIV have compromised immune systems, making them more vulnerable to opportunistic infections and hospital-acquired pathogens. Even if they are on antiretroviral therapy, their immune defenses may be weakened, especially during acute illness or hospitalization. Living in a group home also increases exposure to communal environments where infections can spread more easily.
Choice C reason: A history of depression alone does not increase the risk of hospital-acquired infections. While depression may affect self-care or adherence to treatment, it is not a direct immunocompromising condition. Unless combined with other risk factors such as malnutrition or chronic disease, depression does not inherently predispose a patient to hospital-acquired infections.
Choice D reason: An elderly patient admitted from home who has been sick multiple times in the year is at increased risk because recurrent illness suggests weakened immunity or chronic disease. Frequent infections may indicate underlying conditions such as diabetes, COPD, or heart failure, all of which compromise the body’s ability to fight new pathogens. Advanced age further reduces immune response, making hospital-acquired infections more likely.
Choice E reason: A patient admitted for elective knee surgery with no comorbidities is generally low risk. While any surgical patient faces some risk of infection, elective procedures in otherwise healthy individuals carry far fewer complications compared to elderly or immunocompromised patients. With proper sterile technique and postoperative care, their risk remains minimal compared to the other groups listed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The “S” in ISBAR stands for Situation, which describes the immediate problem or concern. Reporting new onset dyspnea and chest pain directly communicates the urgent situation requiring physician attention.
Choice B reason: A history of heart failure belongs in the “Background” section of ISBAR, not the situation. Background provides context but does not describe the current issue.
Choice C reason: Stating that the patient will be sent to the ED is part of “Recommendation,” not situation. Recommendation outlines the next steps or requests.
Choice D reason: Reporting that the patient is alert and oriented is part of “Assessment,” not situation. Assessment describes the patient’s current status after evaluation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: An oatmeal bath is used to relieve itching and skin irritation, not to reduce fever.
Choice B reason: A tepid bath (lukewarm water) helps lower body temperature by promoting heat loss through conduction and evaporation. It is the appropriate intervention for fever reduction.
Choice C reason: A Sitz bath is used for perineal or rectal conditions, such as hemorrhoids or postpartum care. It does not reduce systemic fever.
Choice D reason: A medicated bath may be used for skin conditions requiring antiseptic or therapeutic agents, but it is not indicated for fever reduction.
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