Patient Data

Exhibits

Which 2 prescriptions should the nurse complete first?

A. Acetaminophen 650 mg PO every 6 hours for temperature greater than 101.0° F (38.3° C): While managing fever is important, it is not as immediate a priority as ensuring the client's breathing and hydration.

B. Start a peripheral IV: Establishing a peripheral IV line is crucial for administering medications and fluids. This is essential for the client's hydration and potential intravenous medication needs.

C. Chest x-ray: Although a chest x-ray is important for diagnosing the cause of the symptoms, it can be done after the client’s immediate needs for oxygen and IV access are addressed.

D. NPO: Keeping the client NPO is necessary, but it doesn't require immediate action compared to oxygenation and IV access.

E. Start oxygen 3 L/minute via nasal cannula: The client is experiencing difficulty breathing, so providing supplemental oxygen is a priority to ensure adequate oxygenation and alleviate respiratory distress.

F. Sputum culture: Obtaining a sputum culture is important for diagnosis, but it can wait until after the client is stabilized with oxygen and IV access.

G. Place the client on a cardiorespiratory monitor: Monitoring the client's cardiac and respiratory status is important, but ensuring oxygenation and IV access takes precedence.

H. Run 0.9% sodium chloride IV infusion at 150 mL/hour: While starting the IV infusion is important, it follows the establishment of the IV line and oxygen administration.