An adult client is admitted to the critical care unit with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) as a result of a postburn infection. The client has a long line peripherally inserted IV catheter for fluid and medication administration and current vital signs include temperature 102.8°F (39.3°C., heart rate 108 beats/minute, respirations 32 breaths/minute. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Provide bedside equipment for transmission and protective precautions.
Evaluate daily serum electrolytes and hydration status.
Culture sputum, urine, burn wound, and all intravenous access sites.
Implement central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) protocols.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Providing bedside equipment for transmission and protective precautions is not the first action that the nurse should implement, as this is a standard precaution that should be already in place for all clients in the critical care unit. This is a distractor choice.
Choice B: Evaluating daily serum electrolytes and hydration status is not the first action that the nurse should implement, as this is a routine assessment that can be done later after addressing the immediate problem of infection. This is another distractor choice.
Choice C: Culturing sputum, urine, burn wound, and all intravenous access sites is the first action that the nurse should implement, as this can help identify the source and type of infection, which can guide the appropriate antibiotic therapy and prevent further complications. Therefore, this is the correct choice.
Choice D: Implementing central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) protocols is not the first action that the nurse should implement, as this is a preventive measure that may not be applicable for this client who already has SIRS. This is another distractor choice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Support stockings may help with peripheral edema, but they are not the priority intervention for this client. The client's low serum albumin level indicates malnutrition and increased risk of infection and poor wound healing.
Choice C reason: Evaluating patency of the AV graft is not the priority intervention for this client because the client is receiving peritoneal dialysis, not hemodialysis. The AV graft may be used in the future if peritoneal dialysis fails, but it is not an immediate concern.
Choice D reason: Instructing the client to follow fluid restriction amounts is important for peritoneal dialysis patients, but it is not the priority intervention for this client. The client's low serum albumin level indicates that fluid restriction alone is not sufficient to manage fluid balance and prevent edema.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Increasing oral fluids may help with hydration, but it will not reduce skin flushing caused by lisinopril. Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE. inhibitor that dilates blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Flushing occurs due to increased blood flow to the skin.
Choice B: Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator that relaxes smooth muscle in blood vessels and reduces chest pain caused by angina. It is not indicated for skin flushing caused by lisinopril. Moreover, nitroglycerin can lower blood pressure further and cause hypotension, headache, dizziness, and fainting.
Choice C: Going to an emergency department is not necessary for skin flushing caused by lisinopril. Flushing is not a sign of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, which would require immediate medical attention. Flushing is also not a symptom of a heart attack or stroke, which would present with other signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, arm numbness, or slurred speech.
Choice D: Reassuring the client that facial flushing is a common side effect of lisinopril is the best action for the nurse to take. Flushing is not harmful or dangerous, and it usually subsides within a few hours. The nurse should explain the mechanism of action of lisinopril and its benefits for lowering blood pressure and preventing angina. The nurse should also advise the client to monitor his blood pressure regularly and report any signs of hypotension, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
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