Infection Control
Why should nurses encourage residents with the flu to drink plenty of fluids?
To prevent dehydration and thin mucus for easier clearance.
A client reports vertigo, tinnitus, and unsteady gait. What disorder might this indicate?
Inner ear disorder.
Sinus infections can spread to which nearby area, causing a secondary infection?
The middle ear → otitis media.
List one nursing recommendation for clients with dry eyes.
Use artificial tears as needed.
A patient is prescribed 1,000 mL of 0.9% NaCl to run over 8 hours. At what rate should the IV be set in mL/hr?
A. 100 mL/hr
B. 110 mL/hr
C. 120 mL/hr
D. 125 mL/hr
D. 125 ml/hr
Which treatment helps reduce inflammation after a muscle strain?
Apply cold packs intermittently for the first 24 hours.
Name one way nurses can prevent flu transmission in long-term care facilities.
Encourage mask use or frequent hand hygiene.
Which part of the ear controls balance and equilibrium?
The vestibular apparatus (semicircular canals).
What symptoms may indicate that a sinus infection has worsened?
Severe ear pain, hearing loss, or persistent fever.
Why should clients with photophobia wear sunglasses outdoors?
To protect sensitive eyes from bright light and UV rays.
Calculate: 50 mL over 30 minutes = ______ mL/hr.
100 mL/hr.
Why should clients avoid applying continuous heat immediately after injury?
It increases swelling and inflammation.
Why should nurses cluster care and close the resident’s door during flu season?
To reduce exposure and limit droplet spread to others.
Seeing flashes of light and floaters may indicate what medical emergency?
Retinal detachment.
Which PPE should a nurse wear when caring for a client with pneumonia?
Gloves and a surgical mask.
Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to what part of the eye?
The retinal blood vessels.
Why is it important to infuse antibiotics over the correct time?
Prevents underdosing or overdosing and ensures effectiveness.
Slurred speech and one-sided weakness are signs of what emergency?
A stroke (CVA).
What type of precautions are used for clients with C. difficile infection?
Contact precautions — gown and gloves required.
Why is retinal detachment considered an emergency?
It can cause permanent vision loss if not treated quickly.
Why isn’t an N95 respirator required for pneumonia?
Pneumonia spreads by droplets, not airborne particles.
What two health conditions must be controlled to slow diabetic retinopathy?
Blood glucose and blood pressure.
Which insulin is drawn up first — NPH or regular?
Regular insulin is drawn up before NPH (“clear before cloudy”).
What is the nurse’s first action if stroke symptoms appear?
Notify the provider or activate emergency response immediately.
What hand hygiene method must be used with C. difficile and why?
Wash hands with soap and water — alcohol rubs don’t kill spores.
Cataracts cause vision changes because the lens becomes _______.
Cloudy or opaque, leading to blurry vision and glare.
What comfort measure helps relieve ear pain in otitis media?
Apply warm compresses to the affected ear.
Why is regular eye screening important for clients with diabetes?
It helps detect early damage and prevent further vision loss.
Why should insulin glargine (Lantus) not be mixed with other insulins?
It’s long-acting and chemically incompatible with other types.
Why should nurses teach diabetic clients to inspect their feet daily?
To detect injuries early and prevent infection due to neuropathy.