An older patient is hospitalized for an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),for which the patient is on chronic steroid use.The patient also has a fresh dog bite on the arm,which is not reddened,swollen,and only slightly tender.The patient is afebrile,but the nurse finds the patient confused and agitated.What action by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Older adults have an age-related decrease in immune function,plus this patient is on medication that diminished immune responsiveness.With the fresh wound,the nurse would be concerned about sepsis.The patient may be septic without showing local or systemic signs of infection other than confusion.Fall precautions and bed alarms may be necessary.The rapid response team is not needed.

An Older Patient Is Hospitalized for an Exacerbation of Chronic