Page 1585 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-
vac/pneumo/default.htm.

Teach clients that using proper hand-washing techniques,

disposing of respiratory secretions properly, and receiving vaccines will
assist in preventing the spread of infection.

X. Influenza

A. Description
1. Also known as the flu; highly contagious acute viral
respiratory infection
2. May be caused by several viruses, usually known as
types A, B, and C
3. Yearly vaccination is recommended to prevent the
disease, especially for those older than 50 years of
age, individuals with chronic illness or who are
immunocompromised, those living in institutions,
and health care personnel providing direct care to
clients (the vaccination is contraindicated in the
individual with egg allergies).
4. Additional prevention measures include avoiding
those who have developed influenza, frequent and
proper hand washing, and cleaning and disinfecting
surfaces that have become contaminated with
secretions.
5. Avian influenza A (H5N1)
a. Affects birds; does not usually affect
humans; however, human cases have
been reported in some countries.
b. An H5N1 vaccine has been developed
for use if a pandemic virus were to
emerge.
c. Reported symptoms are similar to those
associated with influenza types A, B,
and C.
d. Prevention measures include thorough
cooking of poultry products, avoiding
contact with wild animals, frequent
and proper hand washing, and
cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that
have become contaminated with
secretions.
6. Swine (H1N1) influenza
a. A strain of flu that consists of genetic
materials from swine, avian, and
human influenza viruses

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