The nurse is caring for a client taking long-term hydrocortisone replacement therapy. Which assessment finding indicates a masked infection?

Question

1. A complaint of hiccups
2. Deformity of the left upper extremity
3. Purulent drainage from a puncture wound
4. A low-grade oral temperature

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: A complaint of hiccups is not indicative of a masked infection.
Rationale 2: Deformity of the upper left extremity does not indicate a masked infection.
Rationale 3: Purulent drainage is a direct sign of infection.
Rationale 4: Corticosteroids suppress the immune response. A low-grade fever in a client taking hydrocortisone replacement therapy is evidence that an infection is being masked.
Global Rationale: Corticosteroids suppress the immune response. A low-grade fever in a client taking hydrocortisone replacement therapy is evidence that an infection is being masked. Purulent drainage is a direct sign of infection. A complaint of hiccups and arm deformity are not indicative of a masked infection.