The nurse notes that a client has been receiving hydromorphone every six hours for four days. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to complete?
Count the apical and radial pulses simultaneously.
Observe for edema around the ankles.
Auscultate the client’s bowel sounds.
Measure the client’s capillary glucose level.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Counting the apical and radial pulses simultaneously can help detect pulse deficits, which may indicate cardiac issues. However, this is not the most critical assessment for a client receiving hydromorphone.
Choice B reason:
Observing for edema around the ankles is important for assessing fluid retention and potential heart failure. While relevant, it is not the primary concern for a client on hydromorphone.
Choice C reason:
Auscultating the client’s bowel sounds is crucial because hydromorphone, like other opioids, can cause constipation and potentially lead to paralytic ileus, a serious condition where the intestines stop moving food through. Monitoring bowel sounds helps detect early signs of this complication.
Choice D reason:
Measuring the client’s capillary glucose level is important for diabetic patients or those at risk of hyperglycemia. However, it is not directly related to the administration of hydromorphone.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Using relaxation techniques to reduce excessive anxiety is a beneficial practice for managing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can complement medication therapy and help reduce anxiety symptoms1. This statement does not require additional instruction as it aligns with recommended practices.
Choice B Reason:
Avoiding alcohol and other sedatives while taking lorazepam is crucial. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that can cause sedation and depress the central nervous system. Combining it with alcohol or other sedatives can enhance these effects, leading to dangerous levels of sedation, respiratory depression, or even overdose2. This advice is appropriate and does not need further instruction.
Choice C Reason:
Moving slowly from a sitting position to a standing position is important to prevent dizziness or lightheadedness, which can be side effects of lorazepam3. This precaution helps reduce the risk of falls and injuries, making it a suitable recommendation that does not require additional instruction.
Choice D Reason:
Stopping the medication if the intended effect is not immediate requires additional instruction. Lorazepam, like other benzodiazepines, may not produce immediate effects, especially in the context of anxiety management. It is important for clients to understand that medication may take some time to achieve the desired therapeutic effect and that abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a potential rebound in anxiety4. The nurse should instruct the client to follow the prescribed regimen and consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Depression screening is important for overall health and well-being, especially in weight management programs where mental health can significantly impact outcomes. However, it is not the primary measure for determining the effectiveness of orlistat. Orlistat works by inhibiting the absorption of fats from the diet, leading to weight loss. Therefore, while mental health monitoring is crucial, it does not directly measure the medication’s effectiveness.
Choice B Reason:
Daily calorie count is a useful tool in weight management programs to ensure that clients are adhering to a calorie-restricted diet. However, it is not a direct measure of the effectiveness of orlistat. While calorie counting can help manage weight, the primary goal of orlistat is to reduce fat absorption, which is better reflected in changes in body weight and BMI.
Choice C Reason:
Body mass index (BMI) is a key indicator of weight management and is directly related to the effectiveness of orlistat. BMI is calculated based on height and weight, providing a clear measure of changes in body weight over time. Monitoring BMI helps determine if the client is losing weight as expected, making it the most appropriate assessment for evaluating the effectiveness of orlistat.
Choice D Reason:
Serum protein levels are important for assessing nutritional status and overall health. However, they do not directly measure the effectiveness of orlistat in a weight management program. Orlistat’s primary function is to reduce fat absorption, and its effectiveness is better assessed through changes in body weight and BMI rather than serum protein levels.