An 80-yeаr-оld wоmаn with diаbetes presents with a 3-week histоry of progressively worsening thoracic back pain. She developed chills and a headache yesterday but is unsure whether she had a fever. In clinic, her temperature is 101°F (38.3°C). Examination reveals focal tenderness over the mid-thoracic spine without erythema or swelling. She has no lower extremity weakness, numbness, or bowel/bladder dysfunction. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step for the Nurse Practitioner to take in the evaluation of this patient?