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.