how should a nurse assess a patient with a suspected infection

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020

1. How should a healthcare professional assess a patient with a suspected infection?

A. Monitor temperature and check for elevated white blood cells
B. Monitor blood pressure and check for fever
C. Assess for changes in mental status and monitor urine output
D. Administer antibiotics and monitor for changes in mental status

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When assessing a patient with a suspected infection, it is crucial to monitor temperature and check for elevated white blood cells. Elevated temperature indicates a potential infection, and increased white blood cells are a sign of inflammation and the body's response to an infection. Monitoring blood pressure (choice B) and checking for fever (choice B) are not as specific indicators of infection as monitoring temperature and white blood cell count. Assessing changes in mental status and monitoring urine output (choice C) are important aspects of patient assessment but may not directly indicate a suspected infection. Administering antibiotics (choice D) should only be done after a confirmed diagnosis of a bacterial infection, as unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to antibiotic resistance and other adverse effects.

2. How should a healthcare professional care for a patient with a central venous catheter?

A. Monitor for infection and change the dressing regularly
B. Ensure the catheter is patent and flush as needed
C. Educate the patient on self-care and proper hygiene
D. Monitor blood glucose levels and administer IV fluids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Regular monitoring for infection and dressing changes are essential aspects of caring for a patient with a central venous catheter. Infections are a significant risk with these catheters, so vigilant monitoring and timely dressing changes help prevent complications. Choice B is important too, but ensuring catheter patency and flushing are more focused on maintaining the functionality of the catheter rather than infection prevention. Choice C is also important for patient education, but the immediate concern for a healthcare professional is monitoring and preventing infections related to the catheter. Choice D is not directly related to the care of a central venous catheter.

3. A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is to start taking digoxin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I should take this medication with food.
B. I will contact my provider if my heart rate is below 60 beats per minute.
C. I should take an antacid with this medication to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
D. I will need to take this medication for 14 days.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client should contact their provider if their heart rate drops below 60 beats per minute, as this could indicate digoxin toxicity.

4. What are the key differences between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia?

A. Hypoglycemia: Sweating, trembling; Hyperglycemia: Frequent urination, thirst
B. Hypoglycemia: Increased thirst; Hyperglycemia: Sweating, confusion
C. Hypoglycemia: Increased appetite; Hyperglycemia: Blurred vision
D. Hypoglycemia: Dizziness; Hyperglycemia: Low blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hypoglycemia typically presents with sweating and trembling, while hyperglycemia is characterized by frequent urination and thirst. Therefore, the correct key differences between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are that hypoglycemia includes symptoms like sweating and trembling, while hyperglycemia involves symptoms such as frequent urination and thirst. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the characteristic symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, as stated in the question.

5. What are the common signs and symptoms of dehydration in the elderly?

A. Dry mouth, confusion, and decreased skin turgor
B. Increased heart rate and muscle cramps
C. Fever, rapid breathing, and increased urine output
D. Increased thirst and difficulty walking

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Dehydration in the elderly is often signaled by dry mouth, confusion, and decreased skin turgor due to reduced fluid intake. Choice A is the correct answer as these are common signs and symptoms of dehydration in the elderly.\nIncorrect Rationales: Option B (Increased heart rate and muscle cramps) are more associated with conditions like hyperthyroidism or electrolyte imbalances rather than dehydration. Option C (Fever, rapid breathing, and increased urine output) are signs of other medical conditions such as infections or diabetes insipidus. Option D (Increased thirst and difficulty walking) can be seen in various situations but are not specific signs of dehydration in the elderly.