A nurse is planning care for a client who has a fever due to an infection. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Encourage fluid intake of 2,500 mL/day.
Maintain the environmental temperature at 16°C to 18°C (60°F to 65°F).
Immerse the client in cold water.
Assist the client to ambulate.
The Correct Answer is A
Choosing the best intervention for a client with fever due to infection:
The most appropriate intervention for a client with fever due to infection depends on various factors, including the severity of the fever, the client's age and overall health, and their individual preferences. Let's analyze each option and explain its rationale:
a. Encourage fluid intake of 2,500 mL/day.
Rationale:
- Pros: Fever often leads to increased sweating and fluid loss through respiration. Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial to prevent dehydration, which can worsen discomfort and potentially lead to complications like organ dysfunction. Encouraging a fluid intake of 2,500 mL/day is generally recommended for adults with fever, although individual needs may vary based on factors like body size and activity level.
- Cons: While hydration is essential, forcing fluids on a client who experiences nausea or vomiting can be counterproductive. Additionally, some clients with certain medical conditions, like heart failure, may require fluid restriction, making this option inappropriate.
b. Maintain the environmental temperature at 16°C to 18°C (60°F to 65°F).
Rationale:
- Cons: Excessively cool environments can trigger shivering, which actually increases body heat production and can worsen the fever. Additionally, maintaining such a low room temperature can be uncomfortable for the client and may increase their risk of chills.
c. Immerse the client in cold water.
Rationale:
- Cons: Immersing a client in cold water, like a bath, can be a dangerous and counterproductive intervention. The sudden chill can trigger violent shivering, significantly increasing body heat production and potentially causing shock. Moreover, rapid cooling can be uncomfortable and even risky for people with certain health conditions like heart disease.
d. Assist the client to ambulate.
Rationale:
- Cons: While ambulation is generally encouraged for healthy clients, it may not be suitable for everyone with a fever. Depending on the severity of the fever and the client's overall condition, ambulation could be tiring and even unsafe. In some cases, rest may be more appropriate to promote comfort and recovery.
Therefore, the most appropriate intervention for a client with fever due to infection is:
a. Encourage fluid intake of 2,500 mL/day.
Remember:
- Individualize care based on the client's specific needs and preferences.
- Monitor the client's response to interventions and adjust as needed.
- Consult with the healthcare provider for guidance on managing the fever and addressing any underlying infection.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A. 30° lateral.
Choice A rationale:
The 30° lateral position is recommended to reduce pressure on the client’s bony prominences. This position helps distribute the client’s weight more evenly and reduces the risk of pressure injury formation.
Choice B rationale:
The lateral semi-prone recumbent position may not be as effective in reducing pressure on bony prominences as the 30° lateral position. It could potentially increase pressure on certain areas, depending on the client’s body shape and condition.
Choice C rationale:
The supine position can increase pressure on the sacrum and heels, which are common sites for pressure injuries. Therefore, it is not the best position for a client at risk for pressure injury formation.
Choice D rationale:
The 45° supported Fowler’s position can increase pressure on the sacrum and ischial tuberosities, another common site for pressure injuries. Therefore, it is not the most effective position for reducing pressure on bony prominences for a client at risk for pressure injury formation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Selecting a site at least 5 cm (2 in) away from the umbilicus is essential because the tissue around the navel is often tougher and has altered vascularity, which can lead to inconsistent medication absorption.
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Choice B rationale: Air bubbles in prefilled syringes, such as those used for enoxaparin, should not be expelled. The air bubble is designed to be injected last to seal the medication within the subcutaneous tissue and prevent leakage.
Choice C rationale: Aspiration is no longer recommended for subcutaneous injections. There are no large blood vessels in the subcutaneous layer, and aspiration increases the risk of tissue trauma, hematoma formation, and client discomfort.
Choice D rationale: Subcutaneous injections should be administered at a 45° to 90° angle, depending on the amount of subcutaneous fat available. A 15° angle is used specifically for intradermal injections, such as TB skin tests.
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