A 45 year old man is admitted to the Medical/Surgical floor. He has a history of diabetes, He states he was cleaning leaves out of the gutters and felt a sharp stabbing pain to the middle of his right hand. He states " in 24 hours it was red, warm and swollen." The diagnosis is possible osteomyelitis.
1. What diagnostic and laboratory testing would you anticipate being ordered and evaluated? Why?
2. What type of IV access would you anticipate for this patient? Why?
3. Discuss the anticipated needs of this patient as he transitions to home. How could a multidisciplinary approach assist you in planning this care?