Reference no: EM133228425
Debra, age 56, comes to the clinic complaining of a cold she's had for several weeks that just won't go away. She states she has a dry hacking cough, muscle aches, and a headache. While it is very hot outside, she is shivering with a sweater on. She has tried many over-the-counter meds with no effect. She looks ill and is very fatigued. On chest auscultation, she has some inspiratory crackles and diminished breath sounds. You note some dullness on percussion over her left lower lobe. Her temp. is 100.5°.
1. What would you expect to hear on auscultation? On palpation? On percussion? Anything different on inspection?
2. What are your differential diagnoses?
3. What diagnostic tests would you order?
4. What is your final diagnosis? What are the key words in the case study that lead you to consider your diagnosis after a thorough examination?
5. What organisms are responsible for your final diagnosis? Which would be the appropriate antibiotic?
6. What patient education will you provide?
7. Is hospitalization necessary for this patient?