Seventy-two hours after cardiac surgery,a young child has a temperature of 37.7° C (101° F).The nurse should initially implement which intervention?
A) Keep the child warm with blankets
B) Apply a hypothermia blanket
C) Record the temperature on nurses' notes
D) Report findings to physician

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery,the body temperature may increase to 37.7° C (100° F)as part of the inflammatory response to tissue trauma.If the temperature is higher or an elevated temperature continues after this period,it is most likely a sign of an infection and immediate investigation is indicated.Blankets should be removed from the child to keep the temperature from increasing.A hypothermia blanket is not indicated for this level of temperature.The temperature should be recorded,but the physician must be notified for evaluation.

Seventy-Two Hours After Cardiac Surgery,a Young Child Has a Temperature