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 B
Explanation
A full-thickness burn injury can result in fluid loss and low blood volume (hypovolemia), which can lead to hypotension.
Choice A, Urinary diuresis, is not the correct answer because it refers to increased production of urine and is not a common symptom of a full-thickness burn injury.
Choice C, Decreased respiratory rate, is not the correct answer because it refers to a decrease in the number of breaths per minute and is not a common symptom of a full-thickness burn injury.
Choice D, Bradycardia, is not the correct answer because it refers to a slow heart rate and is not a common symptom of a full-thickness burn injury.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
“I’m too tired to brush my teeth.” This statement indicates that the client is experiencing fatigue, which is a common symptom of heart failure.
Fatigue can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities and can be an indication that the client needs a referral for cardiac rehabilitation 1.
Choice A is not the correct answer because weighing oneself daily is a recommended self-monitoring technique for clients with heart failure.
Choice B is not the correct answer because while feeling unhappy can be a symptom of heart failure, it does not necessarily indicate a need for cardiac rehabilitation.
Choice D is not the correct answer because eating a low-sodium diet is a recommended dietary change for clients with heart failure.
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