Influenza

Influenza is not just a fever-and-cough diagnosis. The bedside question is whether the client has uncomplicated viral illness or is developing hypoxemia, dehydration, secondary bacterial pneumonia, sepsis, or destabilization of a chronic condition. A previously independent older adult who suddenly becomes weak, confused, and unable to eat may have influenza even without a measured fever. That atypical presentation should trigger respiratory assessment and precautions rather than reassurance. The nurse's pattern-recognition anchor is the client's physiologic response: work of breathing, oxygenation, perfusion, hydration, and mental status.