Question

Four days after exposure to the coronavirus a client has a negative COVID-19 test result. Eight days after the negative test result, the client presents with fever, fatigue, and cough and the nurse performs a second COVID-19 test. Which action is most important for the nurse to take?

Answer 1

The nurse should ensure patient isolation and implement infection control measures after the second COVID-19 test. This is due to symptoms suggesting an infection and the possibility of an initial false negative test result.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this case, the most important action for the nurse to take after the second COVID-19 test is performed is to ensure patient isolation and implement infection control measures as the client is presenting symptoms that are highly suggestive of a COVID-19 infection. Due to the possibility of a false negative on the initial test, the onset of symptoms highlights the need for the patient to be treated as if they are infected until proven otherwise, to prevent potential transmission to others.

Additionally, false negatives are possible in the early stages of infection, particularly before antibodies reach detectable levels. Immunocompromised patients may have an extended window period or may not generate sufficient antibodies to provide a positive result, necessitating further testing such as PCR to confirm the presence of the virus. Clinical guidelines suggest that patients with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should be managed accordingly, regardless of an initial negative test result.