Question

Mary Barkley, a 74-year-old female, has been admitted to your floor with a respiratory infection and has tested positive for COVID19. She resides in an assisted living facility that has seen four deaths related to COVID19. She is exhibiting the same initial signs and symptoms as the other patients, including a low-grade fever of 99.8, a sore scratchy throat causing an unproductive cough, chills, muscle pain, and headache. She is an at-risk patient due to her age and also suffers from Lupus. She is already taking Hydroxychloroquine, a first-line lupus therapy, but there is no conclusive evidence of its benefits for coronavirus yet. She is very fearful and is requesting to see her family, stating that she does not want to die alone. What is the primary concern for Mary Barkley?

1) Respiratory distress
2) Isolation precautions
3) Hydration
4) Family visitation

Answer 1

The primary concern for Mary Barkley is respiratory distress.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary concern for Mary Barkley, a 74-year-old female who has tested positive for COVID-19 and is exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection, is respiratory distress.

Given that she has tested positive for COVID-19 and is at risk due to her age and underlying health condition (Lupus), it is important to closely monitor her respiratory status. COVID-19 can cause severe respiratory complications, especially in older adults and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Prompt intervention and close monitoring of respiratory symptoms can help prevent further complications and ensure appropriate care for Mary Barkley.

Isolation precautions are necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but respiratory distress is the primary concern for her at this time.