Innate Immunity
Which barrier helps block germs before they enter the body?
The skin and mucous membranes act as physical barriers.
Can breast cancer be located in any part of the breast? What is the most common place it occurs?
What is the first stage of an infectious process?
What is the Incubation period.
What psychosocial concern might emerge in a homebound client with osteoarthritis?
Social isolation and risk of depression.
What do macrophages do when an invader is detected?
They engulf and digest pathogens (phagocytosis).
Which immune cells take part in the body's first line of defense?
Neutrophils, macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells
Which statement best helps a client assess breast cancer risk based on family history?
“Having a close relative with breast cancer may increase your risk but you can be tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations.
What infection control measure protects skin integrity?
Keep skin moisturized and avoid injuries or breakdown.
When should a client be referred to an allergist after a reaction?
Severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis with an unknown cause, in particular.
What causes the body's inflammation response to begin?
Pattern receptors on cell surfaces recognize harmful stimuli and this begins the inflammatory response.
Which of these is not part of the innate immune response?
B and T cells – they are part of adaptive immunity. And antibodies.
Why is pancreatic cancer often detected late?
Vague early symptoms that can be attributed to other illnesses and the deep location of the pancreas as well as lack of routine screenings.
A client touches a dirty towel and gets sick. How was the illness transmitted?
Indirect contact transmission.
A nurse gives cancer teaching at a fair. What info should be included?
Include signs, prevention tips, and screening information.
Are antibodies part of the innate immune response?
No. (components of this response include skin barrier, inflammatory response, and macrophages)
What sets innate immunity apart from adaptive immunity?
It acts quickly and non-specifically, while adaptive is slower and specific.
What does a nurse need to consider with medication doses and monitoring for an older adult with kidney cancer?
Remember that there will likely be impaired drug metabolism; you will need to monitor for toxicity and know that doses may need to be adjusted.
What infection defense involves the skin and mucous membranes?
These are part of innate immunity.
Which actions are priorities when caring for immunocompromised clients?
Wear protective gear, monitor for infection, limit exposure to crowds.
How do white blood cells contribute to defense?
They attack invaders and signal other cells.
Name two things that trigger the innate immune system's inflammatory response?
Damage to tissue or an infection
What safety measure should be used during oral chemo administration?
Handle with chemotherapy gloves, do not touch the pills with your skin, and wash hands after.
What teaching point helps clients reduce infection risk at home?
Maintain hygiene, stay hydrated, and eat nutritious foods.
How do nurses support clients receiving cancer treatment emotionally?
Offer emotional support, counseling referrals, and clear information.
What internal signals tell the body an infection is present?
Fever, increased white blood cell count, fatigue.