The nurse is caring for a patient that developed severe osteomyelitis after sustaining a hip fracture. The nurse would prioritize which physician order?

Explanation

• Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone, which is aggressively treated with IV antibiotics and sometimes surgical debridement. Antibiotic therapy usually lasts weeks or months

• Cultures should be obtained before initiation of antibiotic therapy

• The affected bone should be immobilized, and ambulation is not recommended until patient improves

• Oral intake does not neccessarily need to be restricted

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