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 C
Explanation
A. Delayed hypersensitivity reaction: This type of hypersensitivity reaction, also known as Type IV hypersensitivity, involves a delayed response by the immune system and is mediated by T cells. It does not necessarily involve a failure of self-tolerance.
B. Antibody-mediated reaction: This type of hypersensitivity reaction, also known as Type II hypersensitivity, involves antibodies targeting specific antigens on cell surfaces, leading to cell destruction. It doesn't directly indicate a failure of self-tolerance but rather an immune response against specific cells or tissues.
C. Autoimmune reaction: In autoimmune reactions, the immune system fails to recognize certain body tissues or substances as "self," leading to an immune response against the body's own cells or tissues. This results from a breakdown in self-tolerance, where the immune system mistakenly targets its own body.
D. Immediate hypersensitivity reaction: This type of hypersensitivity reaction, also known as Type I hypersensitivity, involves an immediate response by the immune system to an allergen. It includes conditions like allergies and anaphylaxis, where the immune system reacts strongly to substances that are normally harmless. This response does not necessarily indicate a failure of self-tolerance but rather an exaggerated response to specific antigens.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Reddened tongue and gums: This side effect is not typically associated with ampicillin. However, certain medications or medical conditions can cause changes in oral tissues, leading to redness in the tongue and gums.
B. Digit numbness and tingling: Ampicillin does not commonly cause numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes. These symptoms can be associated with neurological issues or circulatory problems.
C. Bruising and petechiae: These symptoms can indicate bleeding disorders or low platelet count and are not usually caused by ampicillin. It's essential to investigate further if a patient experiences unexplained bruising or petechiae.
D. Skin rash and loose stools: Skin rash is a known side effect of penicillin-type antibiotics, including ampicillin. Loose stools or diarrhea can also occur due to disruption of the gut flora caused by the antibiotic. Patients should be aware of these possibilities and report any severe or persistent symptoms to their healthcare provider.
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