N213: Health Differences Across the Life Span 3

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide If patients are sick with an influenza type virus, they may be overly concerned with possible Avian Influenza due to recent pandemic scares. Be sure to reassure patients that this infection can be rare and only increases with travel to Asian countries or African countries. Signs and symptoms of avian influenza (H5N1): • Fever • Headache • Body aches • Chills • Congestion • Cough • Runny nose • Diarrhea • Vomiting • Malaise Nursing assessment for avian influenza (H5N1): • Head to toe general assessment o Check respiratory status, breath sounds, and presence of cough o Check pulse oximetry o Assess skin for cyanosis o Inquire about duration of symptoms and severity o Inquire about recent travel to other countries • Evaluate laboratory and radiology reports o Molecular influenza testing from nasal swabbing (must be done early in illness) o Cultures of nasal swabbing o Antibody testing for avian influenza type A Nursing diagnosis for avian influenza (H5N1): • Risk for ineffective breathing pattern related to respiratory virus and cough • Risk for altered body temperature related to fever and infection • Risk for activity intolerance related to fatigue • Risk for altered nutritional status related to gastrointestinal complains • Knowledge deficit related to transmission of virus Nursing interventions for avian influenza (H5N1): • Evaluate respiratory status often; check for labored breathing, tachypnea, and dyspnea • Assess skin often for new onset cyanosis • Encourage increased fluids • Offer small, frequent, and soft, bland meals or clear liquids in case of GIdistress • Encourage increased rest ©2017 Achieve Test Prep Page 35 of 204