Answer :
Final Answer:
The nurse should monitor the patient's temperature and assess for any signs of infection or underlying health issues.
Explanation:
In this scenario, the nurse's appropriate course of action is to carefully monitor the patient's temperature and assess for potential causes of the temperature change. A temperature increase from 96.8°F in the morning to 98.6°F in the afternoon could indicate an underlying health issue, especially in an elderly and frail individual.
The nurse should assess the patient for signs of infection, such as fever, as well as other symptoms that might suggest an illness. Additionally, they should review the patient's medical history, medications, and recent changes in their condition to identify any potential causes of the temperature change. The goal is to determine if there's an underlying health problem and take appropriate action, which may include notifying the healthcare provider, performing additional diagnostic tests, or adjusting the patient's care plan.
In summary, the nurse's role is to be vigilant and proactive when a frail elderly patient experiences a significant temperature change, as it can be indicative of an underlying health issue that requires attention and intervention.
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