The client recovering from bowel surgery has developed a systemic infection. The most recent laboratory report indicates a "left shift" in the differential. What is the nurse's best action?
A. Prepare to administer antipyretics for severe fever.
B. Document the information as the only action.
C. Discontinue the intravenous antibiotics.
D. Notify the health care provider.
D
A left shift is an ominous clinical sign. It represents a failure of the inflammatory and immune responses to keep pace with the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. It also represents a failure of treatment. Prompt intervention is needed to prevent death by sepsis.
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The nurse in the long-term care facility is aware that fire is particularly hazardous when:
1. Anesthetic gases are used 2. Heating appliances are used 3. People are incapacitated 4. Children have access to matches 5.
In addition to prior treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexual orientation, which of the following is a pertinent part of a client history when screening for sexually transmitted diseases?
a. year of first sexual intercourse b. racial origin c. attendance at sex education classes d. number of sexual partners over the last 6 months
A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client taking a benzodiazepine. Which client statement would indicate a need for further follow-up instructions?
A. "I will need scheduled bloodwork in order to monitor for toxic levels of this drug." B. "I won't stop taking this medication abruptly, because there could be serious complications." C. "I will not drink alcohol while taking this medication." D. "I won't take extra doses of this drug because I can become addicted."
Which is the priority nursing assessment when providing care for an infant at risk for dehydration?
1. Urine output 2. Urine specific gravity 3. Vital signs 4. Daily weight