A patient is diagnosed with valvular heart disease after experiencing rheumatic heart fever. The nurse understands this disorder is caused by what action?
1. molecular mimicry
2. release of hidden antigens into the circulation
3. biologic changes that cause self-antigens to produce autoantibodies
4. autoimmune response by slow-growing mycobacteria
Correct Answer: 1
The introduction of an antigen whose properties closely resemble those of host tissue results in the production of antibodies that target not only the foreign antigen but also normal tissue. This is considered molecular mimicry. Heart damage in rheumatic fever is an example of the development of antibodies against normal tissue. The other choices are explanations for the development of autoimmune disorders, but they do not describe the physiology of heart damage after rheumatic heart fever.
You might also like to view...
The nurse counsels parents that the early school years create nervous tension in the child manifested by which abnormal behavior(s)? (Select all that apply.)
a. Masturbation b. Food fads c. Stuttering d. Aggressive behavior e. Nonnutritive sucking
Developing sound clinical judgment is a professional responsibility of the nurse. Which statements indicate behaviors that improve clinical judgment? (Select all that apply.)
a. "I always assess before acting and make changes as needed." b. "I work the shifts I am assigned." c. "I look for research findings to support my nursing actions." d. "I believe that every patient deserves my very best efforts." e. "I have read the professional nursing standards."
What is the most consistent concern of the nurse as manager?
a. To develop long-range career goals b. To coordinate patient care while meeting the agency goals c. To maintain harmony within the agency d. To organize the subordinates to meet agency goals
Which assessment is most important for the nurse to perform after administering the first dose of dipivefrin (Propine) to a patient with glaucoma?
a. Compare urine output with fluid intake. b. Listen to breath sounds bilaterally. c. Assess level of consciousness. d. Check pupil size.