What should a nurse do first when a client presents with signs of infection?

When a client presents with signs of infection, the most appropriate initial action for the nurse is to collect cultures for laboratory analysis. This step is crucial because it allows for the identification of the causative organism responsible for the infection. By obtaining cultures, the healthcare team can ensure that the prescribed treatment is targeted and appropriate, which can lead to better patient outcomes. Collecting specimens is often time-sensitive, as it needs to be done before antibiotics are administered to avoid interfering with test results.

Identifying the specific pathogen through cultures provides critical information on sensitivity to various antibiotics, which in turn aids in selecting the most effective therapy. This approach aligns with clinical guidelines that emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment for infections.

While administering antibiotics is vital once the organism is identified or if the clinical condition demands it, doing so before collecting cultures can compromise the effectiveness of the cultures. Notifying the healthcare provider is also an important action after obtaining cultures but should follow the collection process. Isolating the client may be necessary depending on the type of infection and its contagiousness, but this does not take precedence over obtaining necessary diagnostic information.