A patient was diagnosed with Bell's Palsy.
Which intervention should the nurse include in the care of this patient?

Choice A rationale

While increased protein intake is beneficial for tissue repair and overall healing, it is not the immediate priority in acute osteomyelitis. The primary concern is eradicating the bacterial infection, which causes systemic inflammation and bone destruction. Nutritional support is supportive therapy, not the initial life-saving intervention.

Choice B rationale

Acute osteomyelitis is a severe bone infection, often bacterial. Administering antibiotics directly targets the causative microorganisms, preventing further bone destruction, systemic sepsis, and potentially life-threatening complications. Prompt antimicrobial therapy is crucial for controlling the infection and preserving bone integrity, making it the highest priority intervention.

Choice C rationale

Pain management is important in osteomyelitis, but teaching relaxation breathing, while helpful for comfort, does not address the underlying pathology. The infection itself poses a greater immediate threat than the pain. Effective pain relief often follows successful treatment of the infection and reduction of inflammation.

Choice D rationale

Antipyretic therapy addresses fever, a symptom of infection, but does not treat the infection itself. While important for comfort and reducing metabolic demands, it is a supportive measure. The priority is to eliminate the bacterial pathogen causing the fever and bone destruction through targeted antibiotic therapy.

Choice A rationale

Having the client identify specific smells assesses the function of the olfactory nerve, which is Cranial Nerve I. This nerve is responsible for the sense of smell and is tested independently of the facial nerve, which governs motor functions of the face and taste sensation.

Choice B rationale

Checking the client's visual acuity using a Snellen chart assesses the optic nerve, Cranial Nerve II. This nerve transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. Its function is distinct from that of Cranial Nerve VII, which controls facial muscle movements and taste.

Choice C rationale

Observing for facial symmetry while the client smiles directly assesses the motor function of Cranial Nerve VII, the facial nerve. This nerve innervates the muscles of facial expression. Asymmetry or weakness indicates potential damage or dysfunction of this specific cranial nerve. Normal range includes symmetrical movement.

Choice D rationale

Whispering in one of the client's ears while occluding the other assesses the vestibulocochlear nerve, Cranial Nerve VIII. This nerve is responsible for hearing and balance. It is not involved in controlling facial expressions or taste sensation, which are functions of Cranial Nerve VII.