NCLEX RN Exam Questions Related

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A 24-year-old female contracts hepatitis from contaminated food. During the acute (icteric) phase of the patient's illness, what would serologic testing most likely reveal?

  • A. antibody to hepatitis D (anti-HDV).
  • B. hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg).
  • C. anti-hepatitis A virus immunoglobulin G (anti-HAV IgG).
  • D. anti-hepatitis A virus immunoglobulin M (anti-HAV IgM).
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the oral-fecal route. During the acute phase of hepatitis A, serologic testing typically reveals anti-hepatitis A virus immunoglobulin M (anti-HAV IgM). This antibody appears early in the course of the infection. The presence of anti-HAV IgM indicates an acute infection with hepatitis A. Choices A and B are incorrect as hepatitis D and hepatitis B antigens are not typically associated with acute hepatitis A. Choice C, anti-hepatitis A virus immunoglobulin G (anti-HAV IgG), would indicate a past infection and lifelong immunity, which is not expected during the acute phase of the illness.