Question

A nurse caring for a client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is monitoring the client for signs of complications. Which of the following would cause the nurse to suspect infection with Pneumocystis jirovec? SATA

a. Diarrhea
b. Tachypnea
c. Pedal edema
d. Intermittent fever
e. Dyspnea with ambulating
f. Expectoration of frothy mucus

Answer 1

For a patient with AIDS, symptoms suggesting an infection with Pneumocystis jirovecii include tachypnea, intermittent fever, dyspnea upon ambulation, and expectoration of frothy mucus. Diarrhea and pedal edema are not typically signs of PCP.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and monitoring for signs of complications such as infections, a nurse should be alert for specific symptoms associated with Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii. Signs that would raise suspicion of PCP infection include:

• Tachypnea: An abnormally rapid rate of respiration.
• Intermittent fever: Fluctuations in body temperature, generally spiking at various times.
• Dyspnea with ambulating: Difficulty or shortness of breath that occurs during movement or exercise.
• Expectoration of frothy mucus: Coughing up mucus that is frothy in texture, possibly indicating fluid accumulation in the lungs.

Diarrhea and pedal edema are not typically associated with PCP infection. PCP is a serious opportunistic infection seen in AIDS patients, and without effective treatment, it can be fatal. This type of pneumonia presents with respiratory symptoms rather than gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea or symptoms related to the circulatory system, such as pedal edema.