A child who weighs 55 lb receives a prescription for cefotaxime 150 mg/kg/day IV in divided doses every 6 hours. How many mg should the nurse administer each day?

(Enter numerical value only.)

Potential condition: Opioid-induced constipation

Actions to take

Administer a stool softener: Opioids commonly cause constipation by slowing down bowel motility and increasing water absorption in the intestines. A stool softener can help by adding moisture to the stool, making it easier to pass.

Ask the client about their normal bowel routine: Understanding the client's typical bowel habits can provide insights into any deviations caused by the surgery or medication.

Parameters to monitor

Fluid intake: Monitoring the client's fluid intake is crucial as adequate hydration helps maintain bowel function and prevents constipation.

Serum potassium level: Constipation, especially if severe or prolonged, can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can have serious health implications.

Rationale

A. The client's friend may not legally be authorized to provide consent unless they hold medical power of attorney or legal guardianship for the client. Without documentation of such authority, the friend cannot sign the informed consent.

B. In emergency situations where a patient lacks decision-making capacity and there is no available legal guardian or next of kin to provide consent, hospitals may seek a court order to proceed with necessary treatment. However, this could delay emergency treatment.

C. This is based on the legal and ethical understanding that saving the patient's life takes precedence when immediate action is required and consent cannot be obtained.

D. Providing life support ensures that the client's immediate medical needs are addressed while efforts are made to locate a legal guardian. However, unavailability of next of kin should not delay definitive intervention