The nurse is caring for a patient on a medical-surgical unit who has a fever of unknown origin. The prescriber has ordered a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Which intervention is the priority?
Obtaining all cultures before the antibiotic is administered
Delaying administration of the antibiotic until the culture results are available
Administering antipyretics as soon as possible
Administering the antibiotic immediately
The Correct Answer is D
A. Obtaining all cultures before the antibiotic is administered: While obtaining cultures is important for identifying the specific pathogen causing the infection and guiding targeted antibiotic therapy, waiting for culture results can take time. During this time, the infection can progress. Therefore, it's generally recommended to initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics first and then adjust the treatment based on culture results.
B. Delaying administration of the antibiotic until the culture results are available: Delaying antibiotics until culture results are available can be risky, as it allows the infection to progress, potentially leading to sepsis or other severe complications.
C. Administering antipyretics as soon as possible: Administering antipyretics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and make the patient more comfortable. However, the primary intervention for a suspected infection is antibiotic therapy, as it targets the underlying cause of the fever.
D. Administering the antibiotic immediately: When dealing with a patient with a fever of unknown origin and a suspected infection, the priority is to start appropriate antibiotic therapy promptly. Delaying antibiotic administration can allow the infection to worsen, leading to serious complications.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
A. Hypertension: Anaphylaxis often leads to a rapid drop in blood pressure (hypotension) rather than hypertension. Hypotension is a more common symptom because of the severe vasodilation that occurs during anaphylactic reactions.
B. Angioedema: Yes, angioedema is a common clinical manifestation of anaphylaxis. Angioedema involves swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often around the eyes and lips. It can also affect the throat, which can be life-threatening due to airway obstruction.
C. Petechiae: Petechiae are small red or purple spots that appear on the skin and are caused by bleeding into the skin's tissues. They are not a typical manifestation of anaphylaxis.
D. Bronchospasm: Yes, bronchospasm is a hallmark clinical manifestation of anaphylaxis. It involves the sudden constriction of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing and wheezing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ceftaroline (Teflaro) is a fifth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is effective against MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus). It's the first cephalosporin in its class with this capability, making it a valuable choice in treating MRSA infections.
B. Cefepime (Maxipime) is a fourth-generation cephalosporin that does not have specific activity against MRSA.
C. Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) is a third-generation cephalosporin, effective against a wide range of bacteria, but not specifically targeted at MRSA.
D. Cephalexin (Keflex) is a first-generation cephalosporin, primarily effective against Gram-positive bacteria, but not effective against MRSA.
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