A client reports, “I have not had a bowel movement in 4 days and I have vomited once or twice.”. Given the client’s cardiovascular and gastrointestinal status, and social history, what should the nurse plan to do first?

Choice A rationale

A physical therapist focuses on improving a client’s movement, mobility, and function, and relieving pain. They may not specialize in helping clients with difficulties using utensils during meals.

Choice B rationale

A recreational therapist uses a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient’s physical, social, and emotional well-being. However, they may not be the best fit for a client having difficulty using utensils during meals.

Choice C rationale

An occupational therapist specializes in helping people regain, develop, and build skills that are important for independent functioning, health, and well-being. They can provide strategies and make recommendations for adaptive equipment, such as specially designed utensils, to

help the client with Parkinson’s disease eat more independently. Therefore, referring the client to an occupational therapist would be the most beneficial.

Choice D rationale

A speech therapist specializes in the evaluation and treatment of communication disorders and swallowing disorders. While they could assist if the client had difficulties with swallowing, they may not be the best fit for a client having difficulty using utensils during meals.

Choice A rationale

Keeping unopened insulin vials in the freezer is not recommended. Freezing can disrupt the insulin molecule and affect its efficacy.

Choice B rationale

Planning to eat a snack 6 hours after insulin administration is not a standard recommendation. The timing of meals and snacks should be individualized based on the type of insulin, blood glucose levels, and lifestyle.

Choice C rationale

Storing opened insulin vials at room temperature for up to 4 weeks is a correct practice. Insulin stored at room temperature causes less discomfort on injection than cold insulin.

Choice D rationale

Warming the insulin vial to dissolve any crystals that develop is not a standard practice. Insulin should not be used if it appears cloudy or discolored.