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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. IgG: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most abundant antibody in the bloodstream and represents about 75% of all the antibodies in the body. It provides long-term immunity because it can persist in the bloodstream for a long time. IgG antibodies are involved in secondary immune responses and are capable of crossing the placenta, providing passive immunity to newborns.
B. IgE: Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is associated mainly with allergic reactions. When the body is exposed to an allergen, it triggers the release of IgE, leading to the symptoms of an allergic response, such as sneezing or itching.
C. IgM: Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is the largest antibody and is usually the first antibody produced during an initial exposure to an antigen. It is particularly effective at agglutination (clumping together) of pathogens.
D. IgA: Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is found in high concentrations in mucous membranes, particularly those lining the respiratory passages and gastrointestinal tract. It provides localized defense against pathogens. IgA antibodies are also found in saliva, tears, and breast milk, providing immunity to infants.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Tetracycline inhibits protein synthesis."
Explanation: Tetracycline antibiotics interfere with bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the bacterial ribosomes. This binding prevents the attachment of transfer RNA (tRNA) to the messenger RNA (mRNA) complex, effectively inhibiting the production of proteins that are crucial for bacterial growth and replication.
B. "Tetracycline blocks RNA synthesis."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline primarily affects protein synthesis, not RNA synthesis. It doesn't block the creation of RNA molecules in bacteria.
C. "Tetracycline degrades the bacterial cell wall."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline antibiotics do not target bacterial cell walls. Agents like penicillins and cephalosporins are examples of antibiotics that disrupt bacterial cell walls.
D. "Tetracycline binds to magnesium ions."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline does bind to certain metal ions, but it's not primarily through magnesium ions. The binding to bacterial ribosomes is a key mechanism of action for tetracyclines.
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