An RN working in a general medical-surgical unit is caring for a 57-year-old female with a bladder infection. Two weeks prior to hospitalization, the patient was experiencing slight burning upon urination. She self-treated by increasing her intake of fluids, but her symptoms continued to worsen. One week later, she developed generalized abdominal pain and a fever. She presented to the hospital when the pain became unbearable and fever reached 104°F. She was admitted to the medical-surgical unit and started on multiple IV antibiotics with concern that she could be developing a kidney infection.
-Which line(s)of defense has/have been breached in this patient's case?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's second line of defense has been breached as she is now experiencing symptoms of generalized abdominal pain and fever, indicating that her lymphocytes are now being challenged by the infection. The first line of defense includes physical and chemical barriers such as skin and mucus membranes, which can prevent infection. However, in this case, the infection has already passed these barriers and is affecting the patient's internal organs. Option A and B are incorrect as the patient's second line of defense has been breached. Option D is incorrect as the body has multiple lines of defense against infections.

An RN Working in a General Medical-Surgical Unit Is Caring