Final answer:
The correct step of action for the patient with back pain, fever, and inability to move legs after having an epidural catheter is to stop the epidural and perform an emergent MRI to diagnose potential serious conditions such as an epidural abscess or hematoma.
Step-by-step explanation:
The symptoms described for the diabetic patient with a continuous epidural catheter in place after an exploratory laparotomy indicate a potentially serious condition, such as an epidural abscess or epidural hematoma, both of which require immediate action. Additionally, the patient's fever suggests an infectious process, and the inability to move his legs raises concerns for a neurological complication. Therefore, the appropriate next step of action is D. Stop the epidural and perform an emergent MRI. An MRI will provide detailed images of the spine and can help diagnose conditions like abscesses, hematomas, or other spinal pathology. The epidural should be stopped to prevent further potential neurologic damage or spread of infection.