HESI Medical Surgical Exam Related

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An adult client is admitted with flank pain and is diagnosed with acute pyelonephritis. What is the priority nursing action?

  • A. Monitor hemoglobin and hematocrit
  • B. Encourage turning and deep breathing
  • C. Administer IV antibiotics as prescribed
  • D. Auscultate for presence of bowel sounds
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The priority nursing action for a client diagnosed with acute pyelonephritis is to administer IV antibiotics as prescribed. Acute pyelonephritis is a serious kidney infection that requires prompt antibiotic therapy to prevent systemic complications and worsening of the infection. While monitoring hemoglobin and hematocrit (Choice A) is important, it is not the priority in the acute phase of infection. Encouraging turning and deep breathing (Choice B) and auscultating for bowel sounds (Choice D) are relevant aspects of care but do not take precedence over initiating antibiotic treatment to address the infection promptly.