Question

A male client recently released from a correctional facility arrives at the clinic with a cough, fever, and chills. His history reveals active tuberculosis (TB) 10 years ago. What action should the nurse implement? (Select all that apply)

a) Schedule the client for the chest radiograph.
b) Obtain sputum for acid fast bacillus (AFB) testing.
c) Place a mask on the client until he is moved to isolation.

Answer 1

The nurse should schedule a chest radiograph, obtain sputum for AFB testing, and place a mask on the client until he is moved to isolation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given the male client's recent release from a correctional facility and his history of active tuberculosis (TB) 10 years ago, the nurse should implement the following actions:

1. Schedule the client for the chest radiograph: This will help evaluate the current status of the client's lungs and check for any signs of tuberculosis.
2. Obtain sputum for acid-fast bacillus (AFB) testing: This test will help confirm the presence of acid-fast bacilli, which are characteristic of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis.
3. Place a mask on the client until he is moved to isolation: This is to prevent the spread of infection to others in the clinic.