The nurse is assessing a patient complaining of a fever, chills, headache, and malaise with firm and tender cervical lymph nodes. What laboratory test is used to definitively confirm the diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis?
Explanation
•Mononucleosis is usually linked to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is rarely caused by other viruses such as cytomegalovirus (CMV). It causes severe fatigue and malaise. Swollen tonsils and lymph nodes, stomach ache, and flu-like symptoms are generally present.
•Epstein-Barr virus antibody test is used to confirm the diagnosis if the Monospot test is negative and the patient has symptoms of mononucleosis.
Incorrect options:
•The Monospot test, or heterophile antibody test, is a quick test that may be used to screen for mononucleosis, but it often produces false negatives.
•Leukocytosis and lymphocytosis are indicative of infection, but not specific to mononucleosis.