A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is suspected of having septicemia.
Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?
Obtain a WBC count with differential.
Obtain a blood specimen for culture and sensitivity testing.
Obtain a history to determine recent injuries.
Obtain a broad-spectrum antibiotic for rapid administration.
The Correct Answer is B
The priority action for a nurse caring for an older adult client who is suspected of having septicemia is to obtain a blood specimen for culture and sensitivity testing.
This test will help identify the specific microorganism causing the infection and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.
Choice A is incorrect because while a WBC count with differential can provide information about the presence of an infection, it does not identify the specific microorganism causing the infection.
Choice C is incorrect because while obtaining a history to determine recent injuries can provide useful information, it is not the priority action.
Choice D is incorrect because while administering a broad-spectrum antibiotic may be necessary, it should not be done before obtaining a blood specimen for culture and sensitivity testing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"xRanges":[101.765625,141.765625],"yRanges":[263.609375,303.609375]}
Explanation
A pericardial friction rub is highly specific for acute pericarditis and is generally heard over the left sternal border.
It is often louder at inspiration but sometimes can be better heard on forced expiration while the patient bends forward.
Choice A is not the answer because it does not correspond to the left sternal border.
Choice B is not the answer because it does not correspond to the left sternal border.
Choice D is not the answer because it does not correspond to the left sternal border.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A pneumothorax is a collapsed lung that occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall.
This can cause diminished breath sounds on the affected side. Distended neck veins are not a symptom of pneumothorax.
B) Itching over the incision is not a symptom of pneumothorax.
C) Irregular heart rate is not a symptom of pneumothorax.
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