A patient is diagnosed with pneumonia after an abrupt onset of fever, cough, and malaise. The patient is started on antibiotic therapy and is expected to improve in 2 to 3 weeks. The nurse correctly identifies this illness as:
a. acute.
b. chronic.
c. remission.
d. exacerbation.
ANS: A
Acute illness is typically characterized by an abrupt onset and short duration (<6 months). Clinical manifestations of acute illness appear quickly. They may be severe or lethal, or they may soon resolve because they respond to treatment or are self-limiting. Chronic illness is characterized by a loss or abnormality of body function that lasts longer than 6 months and requires ongoing long-term care. Chronic health conditions may be controlled with lifestyle management or drug therapy, but they are considered to be irreversible. Chronic illness may be characterized by periods of wellness (i.e., remission) and exacerbation (worsening) of clinical manifestations, which can be life threatening. Individuals learn to adjust their lifestyles accordingly.
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