Which intervention should the nurse plan to include for a patient with pneumonia in the implementation phase of the nursing process?
Explanation & Rationale
Pneumonia is an acute inflammatory infection of the lung parenchyma, most commonly caused by bacterial pathogens, leading to alveolar consolidation, impaired gas exchange, hypoxemia, fever, and increased respiratory secretions due to infectious infiltration and immune response within the lower respiratory tract. Rationale: A. Monitoring intake and output is important for assessing hydration and renal perfusion but is an assessment activity rather than a direct implementation of treatment for pneumonia. It does not directly address infection or inflammation. B. Administration of prescribed antibiotics and antipyretics is a direct implementation of the treatment plan for pneumonia. Antibiotics target the infectious organism, while antipyretics reduce fever and metabolic demand, supporting recovery and improving oxygen utilization. C. Using alcohol-based mouthwash helps oral hygiene but does not significantly impact lower respiratory tract infection management. It is supportive care rather than a primary therapeutic intervention for pneumonia. D. Increasing physical activity may be inappropriate during acute infection due to increased oxygen demand and fatigue. Rest is typically prioritized in pneumonia to reduce metabolic stress and support healing.