Question

A client is diagnosed as having the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The nurse reviews the client's health history for situations in which exposure may have occurred. Which event does the nurse determine is most likely the source of this infection?

A. The client received a small tattoo on the arm 3 months ago.
B. The client assisted in the emergency birth of a baby 2 weeks ago.
C. The client worked for a month in an undeveloped area in a foreign country 4 months ago.
D. The client attended an ecological conference in a large urban center 2 months ago.

Answer 1

The nurse would consider known modes of HBV transmission to determine that receiving a small tattoo is the most likely source of infection, especially if proper sterilization protocols were not adhered to, risking transmission through skin puncture.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering exposure events most likely leading to a hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, the nurse should assess each situation against known modes of HBV transmission, such as contact with infectious blood or body fluids. Given the events presented:

• A small tattoo might pose a risk if the equipment was contaminated.
• Assisting in the birth of a baby might expose the individual to blood and other body fluids.
• Working in an undeveloped area could involve risks, particularly if medical safety standards were not met.
• Attending an ecological conference has a lower risk, as it typically doesn't involve exposure to bodily fluids.

With these considerations, the nurse might determine that receiving a small tattoo is the most likely source of the infection, particularly if proper sterilization protocols were not followed, thereby posing a risk for transmission through skin puncture.