An older adult patient sought care for the treatment of a swollen, painful knee joint. Diagnostic imaging and culturing of synovial fluid resulted in a diagnosis of septic arthritis. The nurse should prioritize which of the following aspects of care?
A) Administration of oral and IV corticosteroids as ordered
B) Prevention of falls and pathologic fractures
C) Maintenance of adequate serum levels of vitamin D
D) Intravenous administration of antibiotics
Ans: D
Feedback:
IV antibiotics are the major treatment modality for septic arthritis; the nurse must ensure timely administration of these drugs. Corticosteroids are not used to treat septic arthritis and vitamin D levels are not necessarily affected. Falls prevention is important, but septic arthritis does not constitute the same fracture risk as diseases with decreased bone density.
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