The nurse is caring for a patient who 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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