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
Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to infection, often characterized by fever (temperature of 38°C or higher) and tachycardia (heart rate of 120 beats per minute or higher). These symptoms indicate the body’s response to a severe infection.
Choice B rationale
Hypovolemic shock is caused by significant fluid loss, leading to decreased blood volume and perfusion. It typically presents with hypotension and tachycardia, but not necessarily fever.
Choice C rationale
Myocardial infarction (heart attack) is characterized by chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, but fever and tachycardia are not primary indicators.
Choice D rationale
Pulmonary embolism involves a blockage in the pulmonary arteries, leading to symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate, but not typically fever.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by severe hypoxemia and respiratory distress, often requiring mechanical ventilation. It is not typically associated with a mild fever and increased respiratory rate.
Choice B rationale
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic condition characterized by airflow limitation and respiratory symptoms, but not typically associated with a mild fever.
Choice C rationale
Pulmonary edema involves fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to respiratory distress and hypoxemia, but not typically associated with a mild fever.
Choice D rationale
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs causing fever (37.5°C), increased respiratory rate (28 breaths per minute), and other respiratory symptoms. It is the most likely condition given the symptoms.