A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is suspected of having septicemia.
Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?
Obtain a WBC count with differential.
Obtain a blood specimen for culture and sensitivity testing.
Obtain a history to determine recent injuries.
Obtain a broad-spectrum antibiotic for rapid administration.
The Correct Answer is B
The priority action for a nurse caring for an older adult client who is suspected of having septicemia is to obtain a blood specimen for culture and sensitivity testing.
This test will help identify the specific microorganism causing the infection and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.
Choice A is incorrect because while a WBC count with differential can provide information about the presence of an infection, it does not identify the specific microorganism causing the infection.
Choice C is incorrect because while obtaining a history to determine recent injuries can provide useful information, it is not the priority action.
Choice D is incorrect because while administering a broad-spectrum antibiotic may be necessary, it should not be done before obtaining a blood specimen for culture and sensitivity testing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should apply new gloves when alternating between wound care sites.
This is to prevent cross-contamination and infection.
Choice A, cleaning the equipment in the client’s room once per week, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with full-thickness burns on the lower extremities.
Choice B, providing a diet of fresh fruits and vegetables for the client, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with full-thickness burns on the lower extremities.
Choice C, limiting visitation time for the client’s children to 40 min per day, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with full-thickness burns on the lower extremities.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because serum ammonia levels can be elevated in liver disease and are used to monitor the progression of liver disease.
Choice A is incorrect because glucose levels are not typically used to monitor liver disease.
Choice C is incorrect because serum troponin levels are used to diagnose heart attacks, not liver disease.
Choice D is incorrect because phosphate levels are not typically used to monitor liver disease.
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