What should be prioritized in a client diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia?

In the context of a client diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia, the most critical and immediate intervention is to start antibiotics as quickly as possible to address the underlying infection. Bacterial pneumonia is characterized by an infection in the lungs, which can lead to significant respiratory distress, complications, and even sepsis if not treated promptly. Antibiotic therapy directly targets the bacteria causing the infection, helping to reduce inflammation, eradicate the pathogen, and ultimately improve the patient's respiratory function and overall prognosis.

While repeating arterial blood gases can provide useful information about the patient's respiratory status, it is not as urgent as initiating treatment for the infection itself. Increasing IV normal saline infusion may be necessary for hydration, but it does not address the immediate threat posed by the pneumonia. Administering albuterol may help with bronchospasm, but inhaled bronchodilators are generally not the primary treatment for bacterial pneumonia unless there’s an underlying asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation.

Thus, starting antibiotics immediately is the most appropriate priority for managing bacterial pneumonia, as it directly targets the cause of the illness.