A blood culture is ordered for a client with pneumonia to discover the presence of bacteria in the blood and to choose an antibiotic. Which is a key nursing intervention when this test is ordered?
A) Notify the laboratory when the client's temperature elevates.
B) Start antibiotic therapy before obtaining a blood culture.
C) Notify the physician if the client's condition worsens.
D) Ensure that the client lies still when the test is being performed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Blood cultures should ideally be drawn when the client's temperature is elevated, as this is when bacteria are most likely to be present in the bloodstream.

A Blood Culture Is Ordered for a Client with Pneumonia