Question

While changing a client's postoperative dressing, the nurse observes a red and swollen wound with a moderate amount of yellow and green drainage and a foul odor. Given there is a positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which is the most important action for the nurse to take?

A. Force oral fluids.
B. Request a nutrition consult.
C. Administer prescribed antibiotics.
D. Reapply a sterile non-adhesive dressing.

Answer 1

The most important action for the nurse to take upon noticing signs of an infection in a patient with a positive MRSA is to administer prescribed antibiotics promptly. This is critical due to MRSA's resistance to many antibiotics and potential for worsening the infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

Observing a red and swollen wound with a yellow and green discharge and a foul odor in a postoperative patient, especially with a positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) finding, indicates a likely infection that could quickly become serious. Given these symptoms, the most important action for the nurse to take would be C. Administer prescribed antibiotics. It is essential to begin antibiotic treatment promptly, as MRSA is notorious for being resistant to many common antibiotics, and delayed treatment can result in the spread of infection or further complications. After administering antibiotics, the nurse should also ensure the wound is properly dressed with a sterile non-adhesive dressing to prevent further contamination.