The nurse is caring for a patient on a medical-surgical unit who has a fever of unknown origin. The prescriber has ordered a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Which intervention is the priority?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is essential that samples of exudates and body fluids (in this case, blood cultures) be obtained for culture before initiation of treatment. Administration of the antibiotic is important but not more important than obtaining specimens for culture. Antipyretics may be indicated, but the priority is obtaining specimens for culture. Treatment may be initiated before the test results are available.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient on a Medical-Surgical