A nurse is checking the apical pulse of a client who is taking several cardiovascular medications. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: When a patient has an elevated temperature, the body is attempting to cool down through vasodilation, which is why the skin may appear flushed and feel warm. Removing excess blankets can help facilitate the body's natural cooling process. Offering fluids is also crucial as fever can lead to dehydration, especially if there is sweating. Adequate hydration helps regulate body temperature and replaces fluids lost through sweating. The normal body temperature range is typically between 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F). When the body temperature rises above this range, interventions such as removing blankets and providing fluids can be effective in reducing fever.

Choice B reason: Increasing the patient's activity is not advisable when they have an elevated temperature and are experiencing severe fatigue. Activity generates heat and can raise body temperature further, exacerbating the fever. Rest is recommended to conserve energy and reduce metabolic demand, which can help lower the body temperature.

Choice C reason: The use of ice bags can be a rapid cooling measure but must be used with caution. Direct application of ice to the skin can cause vasoconstriction and shivering, which can actually increase the body's core temperature. It is generally reserved for hyperthermia or heatstroke when immediate cooling is necessary. For a simple fever, less aggressive cooling measures are usually preferred.

Choice D reason: Decreasing the patient's intake is not appropriate unless there is a specific contraindication, such as vomiting or risk of aspiration. Adequate nutrition supports the immune system and provides the energy needed for the body to combat the underlying cause of the fever.

Choice A reason: Protective precautions are used to shield immunocompromised patients from infections, not typically for patients with meningococcal pneumonia.

Choice B reason: Contact precautions are used for infections that are spread by direct contact with the patient or the patient's environment. Meningococcal pneumonia is not primarily spread this way.

Choice C reason: Airborne precautions are for diseases that are spread through the air over long distances, such as tuberculosis. Meningococcal pneumonia is not spread in this manner.

Choice D reason: Droplet precautions are recommended for meningococcal pneumonia. This infection can be spread through droplets from the respiratory tract when the infected person coughs or sneezes. Therefore, droplet precautions, including the use of masks, are necessary to prevent the spread of this infection.