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NCLEX Question of the Day
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A client with leukopenia due to chemotherapy develops a fever of 101.2°F (38.4°C). Which action should the nurse take first?
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Request a chest x-ray
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Correct answer Initiate neutropenic precautions
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Administer acetaminophen
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Draw blood cultures
Rationale
A client with leukopenia (low white blood cells) is at high risk for infection. A fever in a leukopenic client is a medical emergency. The priority action is to initiate neutropenic precautions to minimize exposure to pathogens, including placing the client in a private room and using strict isolation techniques.
Acetaminophen may mask a fever without treating the underlying infection. Blood cultures and a chest x-ray may be ordered but are not the first intervention.
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