A nurse is assessing an older client for the presence of infection.The client's temperature is 97.6° F (36.4° C).What response by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because older adults have decreased immune function,including reduced neutrophil function,fever may not be present during an episode of infection.The nurse should assess the client for specific signs of infection.Documentation needs to occur,but a more thorough assessment comes first.Blood cultures may or may not be needed depending on the results of further assessment.

A Nurse Is Assessing an Older Client for the Presence