Mr. J., a 90-year-old resident of a long-term care facility,…
Mr. J., a 90-year-old resident of a long-term care facility, is usually alert and oriented. Today, the nurse notices he is slightly confused and more withdrawn than usual. He denies pain, but his appetite is decreased and he appears more fatigued. His vital signs are: Temp: 97.2°F (36.2°C) HR: 92 bpm RR: 20 BP: 130/76 There are no obvious signs of infection, but a urinalysis is pending due to mild suprapubic tenderness. The nurse considers age-related changes in temperature regulation and immune response. Which of the following best describes why further assessment is needed despite the absence of a fever?