A college-aged student has influenza. At what stage of the ...

[schs14]

A college-aged student has influenza. At what stage of the infection is the student most infectious?
 
  A) Incubation period
  B) Prodromal stage
  C) Full stage of illness
  D) Convalescent period

Question 2

Of all possible nursing interventions to break the chain of infection, which is the most effective?
 
  A) Administering medications
  B) Providing good skin care
  C) Practicing hand hygiene
  D) Wearing gloves at all times

[aloop]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: B
A person is most infectious during the prodromal stage. Early signs and symptoms of disease are present, but these are often vague and nonspecific. During this phase, the person often does not realize that he or she is contagious. As a result, the infection spreads.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: C
Practicing hand hygiene is the most effective way to help prevent the spread of organisms. Nurses need to focus on this simple procedure that can interrupt the cycle of infection.