Today’s NCLEX-RN® question of the day focuses on an infection control nurse who is reviewing the schedule of client appointments for the day. Which client(s) is/are at high-risk for developing tuberculosis (TB)? Can you figure it out?
The infection control nurse is reviewing the schedule of client appointments for the day. Which client(s) is/are at high-risk for developing tuberculosis (TB)? Select all that apply.
A. An elderly client recently diagnosed with cancer
B. A client experiencing homelessness with limited access to medical treatment
C. A nursing assistant who works in a long-term care facility
D. A client who has been taking prednisolone for two yearsE. A 30-year-old client who recently had a knee replacement
Scroll down for the correct answer!
The correct answers to today’s NCLEX-RN® Question are…
A. An elderly client recently diagnosed with cancer
Rationale: Older or immunocompromised clients are at an increased risk of developing TB. As the body ages, the immune system is unable to fight infection as effectively as before. Clients who are immunocompromised, such as those with cancer, have an altered immune system, increasing the risk of infection.
B. A client experiencing homelessness with limited access to medical treatment
Rationale: Clients who are homeless or those with limited access to medical treatment are at an increased risk of developing TB. The lack of medical treatment and living in harsh conditions impacts the client’s immune system, thus increasing the risk for infection.
C. A nursing assistant who works in a long-term care facility
Rationale: People who live or work in crowded areas or health care facilities are at an increased risk of developing TB. Increased numbers of clients in one area can contribute to the risk of TB infection spreading.
D. A client who has been taking prednisolone for two years
Rationale: Clients who take long-term immunosuppressive medications, like prednisolone, are at an increased risk of developing TB. These medications decrease the normal inflammatory and immune response, increasing the likelihood of an infection spreading.
Major Takeaway
Risk factors for tuberculosis (TB) include close contact with an infected individual, as well as living in crowded areas, working in a healthcare facility, having limited access to healthcare; not being vaccinated; experiencing homelessness, and alcohol or intravenous (IV) drug abuse. In addition, children and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for TB. These individuals include clients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cancer, malnutrition, diabetes, elderly clients, or those taking immunosuppressant medications, like corticosteroids.
Incorrect answer explanation
E. A 30-year-old client who recently had a knee replacement
Rationale: A 30-year-old with a recent surgery is not at an increased risk of developing TB.
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