Question

1. The nursing students are reviewing assessment of immune function in preparation for an upcoming examination. How would the nursing students best summarize the difference between natural immunity and acquired immunity? 2. A patient goes to an urgent care center and complains of symptoms of the flu. What assessment parameters does the nurse use for determining the status of the patient's immune function? 3. The local public health department is providing a free update on vaccines and immunity to the nurses in the community. The education day includes discussions about different types of immunity and the differences between vaccines and immune serum. (Learning Objectives 1 and 5) a. What is the difference between active immunity and passive immunity? b. What are the key nursing considerations in the implementation of vaccines? C. What is the difference between a patient receiving a vaccine and immune serum?

Answer 1

1. Natural immunity is the type of immunity which an individual gets by birth whereas acquired immunity is not present at the time of birth rather acieved in the lifespan of the individual.

2. Nurse will assess white blood cells count as they increase in number to fight with the virus causing flu.

3.a. active immunity is immunity resulted from the production of antibodies in response to antigen whereas in passive immunity, it is related to ready made antibodies gained from other person or animals.

B. key nursing considerations in administering vaccines:

• Obtain a medication order from the medical team.
• Ensure the vaccine(s) indicated, including any previously missed vaccine doses
• Check for  any contraindications or precautions to the vaccines.
• Ensure the age of the patient to be appropriate for vaccination.
• Reconstitute the vaccine as needed immediately before administration
• Use a sterile 19 gauge needle for reconstitution and a separate 23 gauge needle, 24 mm in length for administration of the vaccine
• Use only the diluent supplied with the vaccine; do not use sterile water .
• Administer reconstituted vaccines as soon as reconstituted.
• Dispose of clinical and sharps waste, including vaccine vial
• Cover the injection site quickly with cotton wool and tape as needed
• Gently apply pressure for 1-2 minutes
• Inform patient to remain on the ward for a minimum of 15 minutes to oserve for signs of anaphylaxis.
• All vaccines administered to infants and children should be documented with details.

C. Serums are used in patient with low immunity like suffering from TB, cancer etc and required immediate treatment whereas vaccines are contraindicated in low immunity individuals .