A patient with suspected bacterial sepsis has an intravenous antibiotic prescribed, but blood cultures have not yet been collected. Which action is most appropriate if it will not delay treatment?
Correct answer: A. Collect prescribed blood cultures first
- A. Collect prescribed blood cultures first
- B. Wait for the white cell count result
- C. Give an antipyretic before sampling
- D. Collect a urine sample instead of blood
Explanation
Blood cultures should be collected before antibiotics when this can be done promptly, because antibiotics may reduce culture yield. Cultures must not cause a significant delay in urgent antimicrobial treatment or resuscitation.
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About Critical Care and Emergency Nursing
Covers rapid assessment and stabilisation of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory failure, shock, cardiac arrest, sepsis, poisoning and major electrolyte disturbances. It includes triage, the ABCDE approach, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ventilator and monitor care, emergency medicines and distinguishing life-threatening deterioration from stable illness.
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