The patient is restless with a temperature of 102.2° F (39° C). One of the first things the nurse should do is
a. Place the patient on oxygen.
b. Restrict fluid intake.
c. Increase patient activity.
d. Increase patient's metabolic rate.
ANS: A
During a fever, cellular metabolism increases and oxygen consumption rises. Myocardial hypoxia produces angina. Cerebral hypoxia produces confusion. Interventions during a fever include oxygen therapy. Dehydration is a serious problem through increased respiration and diaphoresis. The patient is at risk for fluid volume deficit. Fluids should not be restricted. Increasing activity would increase the metabolic rate further, which would not be advisable.
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