HESI RN Exit Exam 2024 Capstone Related

Review HESI RN Exit Exam 2024 Capstone related questions and content

A client presents with a suspected infection and has a fever of 102°F. What is the nurse's immediate priority?

  • A. Administer antipyretics as ordered
  • B. Take a blood culture before administering antibiotics
  • C. Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration
  • D. Monitor vital signs every hour
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The immediate priority for a client with a suspected infection and fever is to take a blood culture before administering antibiotics. This step is crucial to identify the causative organism and ensure appropriate treatment. Administering antipyretics or encouraging fluid intake are important but should come after obtaining the blood culture to avoid interfering with test results. Monitoring vital signs, although essential, is not the immediate priority compared to identifying the infectious agent.