Which of the following precautions should be used for a patient who is immunocompromised and suspected of having cryptococcal meningitis?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Standard Precautions for family and staff. In the case of a patient who is immunocompromised and suspected of having cryptococcal meningitis, Standard Precautions are the most appropriate. Standard Precautions are used for all patients and involve basic infection prevention measures such as hand hygiene, using personal protective equipment when necessary, and proper handling and disposal of contaminated items. Using Airborne Precautions (Option A) for cryptococcal meningitis is not necessary as the infection is not transmitted through the airborne route. Wearing a mask within 3 feet from the bed (Option B) is more relevant for diseases spread via droplet transmission, which is not the case with cryptococcal meningitis. Contact Precautions (Option D) are not required for this particular infection as it is not typically spread through direct contact. Educationally, understanding the appropriate precautions for specific infectious diseases is crucial for healthcare professionals to prevent the spread of infections and protect vulnerable patients. By adhering to Standard Precautions, healthcare workers can provide safe and effective care while minimizing the risk of transmitting infections to patients with compromised immune systems.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Facility 5-year strategic plan. Employee education for infection prevention is not typically included in a facility's long-term strategic plan. The strategic plan focuses on high-level goals and objectives for the organization's growth and development over a 5-year period, whereas infection prevention education is more operational and directly related to daily practices within the facility. A) Facility IP risk assessment is essential in identifying potential areas of risk for infection transmission within the facility. This assessment helps in developing strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure a safe environment for patients and staff. B) Facility IP program plan outlines the specific protocols, procedures, and practices that need to be implemented to prevent and control infections within the facility. Employee education is a crucial component of this plan to ensure compliance and effectiveness. C) Annual facility budget and allocation of resources are important for supporting the implementation of infection prevention measures, including employee education. Adequate resources must be allocated to training programs, materials, and staff to ensure a comprehensive approach to infection control. In an educational context, understanding the importance of employee education in infection prevention is vital for healthcare professionals, especially for those preparing for the NCLEX RN exam. By grasping the significance of ongoing training and education in this area, nurses can contribute to maintaining a safe healthcare environment and preventing the spread of infections among patients and staff.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Bacterial meningitis. This can be deduced from the CSF report that shows decreased glucose, elevated protein, and high white blood cell counts (1,000/mm³). In bacterial meningitis, the bacteria consume glucose in the CSF, leading to decreased levels, while the immune response increases protein and white blood cell levels. Option B) Viral meningitis typically presents with normal glucose levels, slightly elevated protein, and lower white blood cell counts compared to bacterial meningitis. Fungal meningitis (Option C) may show similar CSF findings to bacterial meningitis but is less common. Tuberculosis (Option D) meningitis usually presents with elevated protein and lymphocytic pleocytosis in the CSF. Educationally, understanding the CSF findings in different types of meningitis is crucial for nurses taking the NCLEX RN exam as it tests their ability to analyze and apply clinical data to identify specific conditions. This knowledge is essential for providing timely and appropriate care to patients with meningitis, as different types require distinct treatment approaches.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Empiric antibiotic usage. Empiric therapy is initiated based on clinical judgment and knowledge of likely pathogens before laboratory confirmation. This approach is crucial in critically ill patients to start treatment promptly and improve outcomes. Option B) Prophylactic antibiotics are given to prevent infection, not treat an existing one. Option C) Therapeutic antibiotics are chosen based on culture results and specific pathogen identification, which is not the case in this scenario. Option D) Pathogen-directed therapy is similar to therapeutic but involves tailoring antibiotics to the identified pathogen. Educationally, understanding when to use empiric therapy is vital for nurses, especially in high-acuity settings like ICUs. It requires a balance of clinical judgment, knowledge of common pathogens, and patient condition to provide timely and appropriate care. This question highlights the importance of quick decision-making in infection control, emphasizing patient safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Meningococcal. Meningococcal immunization is categorized as a 'required' immunization for international travel because of the risk of meningococcal disease in certain regions. Meningococcal disease can be severe and potentially life-threatening, especially in crowded or close-quarter settings like dormitories or military barracks, which travelers may encounter. A) Typhoid is typically a 'recommended' immunization for international travel to areas where typhoid fever is prevalent, but it is not considered a required immunization. B) Japanese encephalitis immunization is also usually 'recommended' for travel to regions where the disease is endemic but is not classified as a required immunization. C) Rabies immunization is generally not considered a required immunization for international travel unless a person is at high risk of exposure, such as veterinarians or animal handlers. Educationally, understanding the categorization of immunizations for international travel is crucial for healthcare providers and travelers to ensure proper preparation and protection against preventable diseases. Meningococcal vaccination is essential for travelers going to regions where the disease is prevalent, highlighting the significance of appropriate immunization strategies based on travel destinations and individual health considerations.