Question

Which one of the following clients is most susceptible to the development of Legionnaire's disease? A. 21-year-old college freshman who lives in a dormitory B. 35-year-old automobile salesman who works outside C. 55-year-old teacher who frequently travels abroad D. 60-year-old coal miner who has a 2 PPD smoking history

Short answer

Answer: The most susceptible person is the 60-year-old coal miner who has a 2 PPD smoking history.

Step-by-step solution

Identify risk factors for Legionnaire's disease

Legionnaire's disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. The risk factors that make a person more susceptible to developing the disease include: - Age (being over 50 years old) - Smoking - Chronic lung conditions - Weakened immune system - Certain environments (such as hotels, hospitals, or buildings with complex water systems)

Analyze each option based on the risk factors

A. 21-year-old college freshman who lives in a dormitory: While living in a dormitory may expose this person to complex water systems, they are young and unlikely to have a weakened immune system or chronic lung conditions. B. 35-year-old automobile salesman who works outside: This person is also relatively young and primarily works outdoors, rather than in an environment with complex water systems. C. 55-year-old teacher who frequently travels abroad: This person is over 50 and frequently exposed to environments like hotels that may house Legionella bacteria. However, their profession does not indicate smoking or other risk factors. D. 60-year-old coal miner who has a 2 PPD smoking history: This person is over 50, works in an environment that potentially exposes them to poor air quality, and has a significant smoking history, all of which could contribute to the development of Legionnaire's disease.

Choose the person most susceptible to Legionnaire's disease

Option D, the 60-year-old coal miner with a 2 PPD smoking history, has the highest number of risk factors for developing Legionnaire's disease. This person's age, smoking history, and work environment all make them more susceptible to the illness compared to the other options presented.

Key concepts

Legionnaire's disease risk factors

Legionnaire's disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. These bacteria thrive in water systems, and infections often occur after inhaling tiny droplets of water that contain the bacteria. Several factors can increase a person's susceptibility to Legionnaire's disease:

• Age: Individuals over 50 years old are at higher risk.
• Smoking: Smoking damages the lungs, making them more vulnerable to infections like Legionnaire's disease.
• Chronic lung conditions: Those with existing lung diseases have reduced defenses against respiratory infections.
• Weakened immune system: People with compromised immune systems, possibly due to underlying illnesses or certain medications, are more at risk.
• Certain environments: Places like hotels, hospitals, or any building with complex water systems can harbor the bacteria.

Understanding these risk factors helps in identifying individuals who might need more protective measures against infection.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, leading to symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing shortness of breath and phlegm production.

Pneumonia can be caused by various infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Among bacterial causes, Legionella stands out due to its severity and waterborne transmission. Recognizing pneumonia symptoms quickly is crucial for obtaining timely treatment and reducing complications.

Pneumonia is typically more dangerous for older adults, infants, and those with pre-existing health issues. Vaccines can help prevent certain types of pneumonia. Health professionals aim to address pneumonia aggressively, as it can quickly become life-threatening if not managed properly.

Nursing examination preparation

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam requires a solid understanding of various diseases, including Legionnaire's disease. Nurses need to be familiar with symptoms, risk factors, and treatment protocols. Here are some preparation tips:

• Study risk factors: Understand why certain people are more prone to certain diseases.
• Know the symptoms: Recognize the early signs of infections such as pneumonia.
• Treatment plans: Learn the standard care procedures for common illnesses.
• Practice questions: Use NCLEX practice tests to check your understanding.

A comprehensive review of these elements helps ensure success on the exam and enhances nursing practice, ensuring high-quality patient care. Using these strategies enables nursing candidates to study effectively and feel confident during their examination.

Disease susceptibility analysis

Disease susceptibility analysis involves evaluating individuals or populations to determine their risk of developing certain diseases. This process takes into account various factors like age, lifestyle, environment, and genetic predisposition.

• Age: Some diseases are more common in specific age groups due to physiological changes.
• Lifestyle choices: Factors such as smoking or diet can significantly impact susceptibility to diseases like pneumonia.
• Environmental exposure: Living or working conditions, such as exposure to pollutants or crowded spaces, play a major role.
• Genetic factors: Family history of certain illnesses can highlight potential hereditary risks.

By conducting a thorough disease susceptibility analysis, healthcare providers can better target preventive measures and tailor treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes.