Question

A nurse is preparing a presentation on bioterrorism. Which of the following findings should the nurse include as an indication of potential bioterrorism?

A. Nationwide incidence of pneumonia is higher than the prior year.
B. A large number of otherwise healthy adults are dying from sepsis
C. A health department reports cases of influenza in October
D. Most of the clients' diagnoses with pneumonia have an elevated white blood cell count

Answer 1

A large number of otherwise healthy adults dying from sepsis is the most indicative sign of potential bioterrorism among the provided options, as bioterrorism-related pathogens can cause severe infections leading to sepsis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided regarding the indication of potential bioterrorism, B. A large number of otherwise healthy adults are dying from sepsis would be the most indicative sign. Bacterial pneumonia, commonly associated with bioterrorism concerns, is a notable cause of sepsis. Bacterial agents, like Yersinia pestis which causes pneumonic plague, and Bacillus anthracis which causes inhalation anthrax, can be used as bioterrorism agents and could present with widespread sepsis in otherwise healthy adults if released into a population. In contrast, a higher incidence of pneumonia or influenza cases during peak seasons or the presence of elevated white blood cell counts in pneumonia patients are not unusual findings and would not necessarily indicate bioterrorism.