Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

For an immunocompromised patient, such as someone undergoing chemotherapy, the risk for infections and complications is significantly higher. In cases of fever and potential respiratory infection, immediately initiating broad-spectrum antibiotics is crucial to cover a wide range of possible infectious agents and prevent rapid deterioration. The use of cytotoxic drugs in chemotherapy can significantly depress the immune system, increasing the risk of severe infections. Detailed history and blood cultures, while important, are subsequent steps after addressing the immediate risk of severe infection with empiric antibiotic therapy. A chest X-ray, although useful for diagnosis, would not be the immediate priority before stabilizing the patient.