A client enters the emergency department with suspected exposure to anthrax. The physician confirms this suspicion and orders the client an antibiotic. Which medication would the nurse expect the physician to order?

A. Prayer:

Prayer is a spiritual practice that involves communicating with a higher power or deity. It has been used for centuries across various cultures and religions as a means of seeking guidance, comfort, and healing. While the direct physical effects of prayer on the body may not be well understood, many people find that prayer can provide emotional support, reduce stress, and promote a sense of well-being. Additionally, some research suggests that prayer may have positive effects on mental health and overall quality of life.

B. Meditation:

Meditation is a practice that involves focusing the mind and cultivating awareness, often through techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or guided imagery. It has been practiced for centuries in Eastern traditions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, as well as in other cultures around the world. Meditation is known for its ability to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity. It has also been associated with numerous physical health benefits, including lower blood pressure, improved immune function, and better sleep.

C. Ointments with a steroid base:

Ointments with a steroid base are not typically considered CAM therapies. Instead, they are a form of conventional medical treatment commonly used to reduce inflammation and treat various skin conditions. These ointments contain corticosteroids, which are synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of hormones produced by the adrenal glands. They work by suppressing the body's immune response and reducing inflammation in the affected area. While steroid-based ointments can be effective for treating certain skin conditions, they are not part of traditional CAM practices.

D. Massage:

Massage therapy involves manipulating the body's soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments, to promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and improve circulation. It has been practiced for centuries in cultures around the world and is commonly used to alleviate stress, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. Massage therapy encompasses various techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and aromatherapy massage, each with its own benefits and applications. Research has shown that massage therapy can have numerous physical and mental health benefits, including reduced anxiety, improved mood, and enhanced immune function.

A. "Are you having any difficulty breathing?":

Difficulty breathing is a critical symptom that may indicate a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. It is essential to assess for difficulty breathing immediately as it requires urgent intervention to ensure the patient's airway is clear and to administer appropriate treatment.

B. "Have you noticed any blood in your stool?":

While blood in the stool could indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, it is not typically associated with allergic reactions to antibiotics. This symptom is more commonly associated with other conditions such as gastrointestinal ulcers, infections, or inflammatory bowel disease. While important to assess, it is not as immediately concerning as difficulty breathing in the context of a suspected allergic reaction.

C. "Are you having difficulty with your hearing?":

Difficulty with hearing is not a common symptom of allergic reactions to antibiotics. It may be associated with other conditions such as ear infections or ototoxicity from certain medications. While it is important to assess any changes in hearing, it is not typically an immediate concern in the context of a suspected allergic reaction.

D. "Do you have a headache?":

Headaches are a common symptom that can occur for various reasons, including stress, tension, dehydration, or as a side effect of medications. While headaches can sometimes occur as a side effect of certain drugs, they are not typically associated with severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis. Therefore, while it is important to assess for headaches, it is not as immediately concerning as difficulty breathing in the context of a suspected allergic reaction.