2. What health teaching should be included for a client being discharged home from an emergency department with an infection?
2. What health teaching should be included for a client being discharged home from an emergency department with an infection?
. Take an extra antibiotic tablet as needed if the temperature is over 38.5°C.
. If chills occur after 24 hours, check temperature and call provider if over 38.5°C.
. Do not take acetaminophen for 24 hours after starting antibiotic.
. Use cooling measures for temperature over 37°C.
Test-Taking Tip
Only one option indicates a worsening of the client's condition.
Content Area: Adult Health, Infection Control; Integrated Process: Teaching and Learning; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Vital Signs Changes/Abnormalities
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Answer 1 is incorrect because antibiotics are taken on a routine schedule, not prn for symptom management. Answer 2 is correct because chilling is an indication that the hypothalamus "thermostat" has been reset at a higher level, and the body feels cold until metabolism increases the temperature to the new "fever" level. Twenty-four hours after antibiotics have been started, the client should be feeling better. Chilling and fever may indicate that the antibiotic is not effective against the organism. Answer 3 is incorrect because it is generally safe to take acetaminophen with an antibiotic, even in the first 24 hours. Answer 4 is incorrect because fever does not usually require cooling until over 38.3°C (101°F). Antipyretics are the preferred treatment. A cool cloth on the forehead will not cool internal tissues.