A nurse is assessing a client with a temperature of 38.5°C (101.3°F) and a white blood cell count of 15,000/mm³. Which condition is the client most likely experiencing?
Bacterial infection.
Viral infection.
Fungal infection.
Parasitic infection.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Bacterial infection often leads to an elevated white blood cell count (15,000/mm³) and fever (38.5°C). The body’s immune response to bacterial pathogens results in these clinical manifestations.
Choice B rationale
Viral infections can cause fever, but they typically do not lead to a significant increase in white blood cell count.
Choice C rationale
Fungal infections can cause fever and elevated white blood cell count, but they are less common and usually occur in immunocompromised individuals.
Choice D rationale
Parasitic infections can cause fever and elevated white blood cell count, but they are less common and usually present with other specific symptoms.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Meningitis presents with fever, stiff neck, and photophobia. It is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often caused by infection.
Choice B rationale
Encephalitis involves inflammation of the brain itself, presenting with fever, headache, and altered mental status, but not specifically photophobia.
Choice C rationale
Migraine can cause photophobia and headache but is not typically associated with fever and stiff neck.
Choice D rationale
Sinusitis can cause fever and headache but not typically photophobia and stiff neck.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) and a stiff neck are classic signs of meningitis, indicating inflammation of the meninges.
Choice B rationale
Myocardial infarction typically presents with chest pain, not a stiff neck.
Choice C rationale
Appendicitis presents with abdominal pain, not a stiff neck.
Choice D rationale
Pneumonia presents with respiratory symptoms, not a stiff neck.