Final answer:
Immediate orders for acute pericarditis include diagnostic tests such as a chest radiograph and ECG. Treatment options depend on the cause of pericarditis. Additional interventions may be necessary based on the patient's response and symptom severity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The immediate orders for a patient with acute pericarditis presenting with chest pain and respiratory distress would be to perform a chest radiograph, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and collect samples of blood, urine, and sputum for analysis. These diagnostic tests can help determine the cause of the pericarditis and guide treatment decisions.
After examining the results of the initial tests, the physician may prescribe antibacterial medications if the pericarditis is caused by a bacterial infection. If the pericarditis is due to a viral infection or other pathogens, appropriate treatment options will be considered.
Final orders may depend on the patient's response to treatment and the severity of symptoms. Additional interventions may include pain management, anti-inflammatory medications, or referral to a specialist for further evaluation and management.