Question

A client is being treated in the ED for respiratory distress coupled with pneumonia. The client has no medical history. However, the client works in a coal mine and smokes 10 cigarettes a day. The nurse anticipates which order based on the client's immediate needs?

a) Completion of a 12-lead ECG
b) Client education: avoidance of irritants like smoke and pollutants
c) Administration of antibiotics
d) Administration of corticosteroids and bronchodilators

Answer 1

The nurse anticipates administration of antibiotics as the most likely immediate medical intervention for a client in the ED with respiratory distress and pneumonia. The client's work in a coal mine and smoking habits all support the likelihood of a bacterial infection that requires antibiotic treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client in the ED who is experiencing respiratory distress and has pneumonia likely requires immediate medical intervention to address his symptoms. The nurse anticipates administration of antibiotics based on the client's immediate needs, considering the clinical evidence of a bacterial infection suggested by the presence of gram-negative rods in John's case as mentioned in your reference. Furthermore, the client's occupation and smoking habit, which have led to acute respiratory distress and pneumonia, strongly support the decision to provide antibiotic treatment to target the bacterial infection.

In addition to administering antibiotics, other potential orders might include the use of corticosteroids and bronchodilators to manage inflammation and improve breathing. However, since the priority is to treat the underlying bacterial infection, antibiotics are more anticipated. Client education regarding the avoidance of irritants such as smoke and pollutants would be vital as well, but it is not an immediate medical intervention.