NCLEX RN Questions Medical Surgical Nursing Related

Review NCLEX RN Questions Medical Surgical Nursing related questions and content

A client with bacterial pneumonia is to be started on I.V. antibiotics. Which of the following diagnostic tests must be completed before antibiotic therapy begins?

  • A. Urinalysis.
  • B. Sputum culture.
  • C. Chest radiograph.
  • D. Red blood cell count.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A sputum culture identifies the causative organism and its antibiotic sensitivity, guiding effective therapy. Urinalysis, chest radiographs, and red blood cell counts provide supportive data but are not required before starting antibiotics.