What nursing action should be taken for a patient suspected of having sepsis?

Obtaining blood cultures is a critical initial nursing action for a patient suspected of having sepsis. This step is essential because it allows for the identification of the specific pathogens causing the infection and helps guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. Early detection and treatment are vital in sepsis management, as this condition can rapidly progress to severe complications, including septic shock and organ failure.

By collecting blood cultures before initiating antibiotics, healthcare providers can better understand the infecting organism and provide targeted treatment, which can significantly improve patient outcomes. The timing of this action is crucial; delays in obtaining cultures can hinder appropriate management and increase morbidity and mortality.

Other options, although relevant in specific contexts, do not address the immediate needs of a patient suspected of sepsis in the same way. Administering pain medication may help with symptom management but does not address the underlying cause. Elevating lower limbs is not a standard or critical action for sepsis and may not provide any benefits in this context. Encouraging a high carbohydrate intake is unrelated to the immediate care needs of a patient with sepsis and does not prioritize the critical interventions required to manage this potentially life-threatening condition effectively.