An older male client complains to the practical nurse (PN) during his annual physical exam that he is too tired to mow the lawn. Which response should the PN offer?

The correct answer is choiceB. Culture for sensitive organisms.

Choice A rationale:

C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are indicative of inflammation in the body and can help identify the presence of an infection. However, CRP levels do not provide specific information about the type of organism causing the infection, which is crucial for targeted treatment.

Choice B rationale:

A culture for sensitive organisms is essential in this scenario because it identifies the specific bacteria or other pathogens present in the wound. This information is critical for selecting the appropriate antibiotic therapy to treat the infection effectively.

Choice C rationale:

Serum albumin levels are important for assessing nutritional status and overall health, which can impact wound healing. Low albumin levels can indicate poor nutritional status and delayed wound healing, but they do not provide immediate information about the infection itself.

Choice D rationale:

Serum blood glucose (BG) levels are crucial for managing diabetes and can affect wound healing. High blood glucose levels can impair the immune response and slow down the healing process. However, like CRP, BG levels do not provide specific information about the type of infection present in the wound.

The PN should not prioritize bringing a glucometer to the room in this situation. The client's unresponsiveness indicates a potential medical emergency that requires immediate action, and checking blood glucose levels is not the primary concern at this moment.

Choice C rationale:

Feeling for a carotid pulse is an essential step in assessing the client's circulation. However, it is not the first priority when the client is unresponsive. The PN should focus on obtaining emergency help first to ensure timely intervention.

Choice D rationale:

Checking the blood pressure can provide valuable information about the client's condition, but it is not the most critical step when dealing with an unresponsive client. Promptly seeking emergency assistance is more important to address the immediate concern.