Saunders Respiratory Practice 2026 - Free Respiratory Practice Questions and Study Guide

The first nursing intervention for a client with pneumonia upon admission to the hospital is to obtain a culture and sensitivity of sputum. This step is crucial because it helps identify the causative organism of the pneumonia, which informs the most effective antibiotic treatment for the patient. Prompt identification of the pathogen allows for targeted therapy, which can lead to improved patient outcomes.

While administering prescribed antibiotics and providing supplemental oxygen are important components of pneumonia management, these interventions rely on accurate identification of the bacteria involved. A respiratory assessment is also vital for determining the severity of the condition and the client's baseline status; however, collecting sputum for culture and sensitivity directly contributes to ensuring that treatment is appropriately tailored. Thus, obtaining sputum cultures takes precedence as it sets the foundation for subsequent nursing interventions and treatment plans.