A client with a malabsorption syndrome has a low serum calcium level. The practical nurse should monitor the client for which problem?

A. Use a client-specific stethoscope.
Indicated: Using a client-specific stethoscope helps prevent the spread of MRSA between patients. Each client should have dedicated equipment to reduce cross-contamination.
B. Wipe the medication cart with bleach after bringing it into the room.
Not Indicated: While disinfection of surfaces is important, the cart should be cleaned according to hospital protocol, which may involve different cleaning agents. Bleach is not typically used for medication carts and might not be the standard protocol.
C. Measure the client's temperature with a disposable thermometer.
Indicated: Using a disposable thermometer or single-use covers for thermometers prevents the transmission of MRSA to other patients. This practice helps maintain infection control.
D. Change gloves between different clients.
Indicated: Gloves should be changed between patients to prevent the spread of MRSA. This is a standard infection control practice to avoid cross-contamination.
E. Pad the client's side rails with clean linens.
Not Indicated: While padding the side rails may be done for client comfort or safety, it does not specifically address the control of MRSA spread and is not a direct infection control measure for MRSA.

A. Acetaminophen 600 mg PO every 6 hours PRN for pain or temperature greater than 100° F (37.7° C)
While acetaminophen is necessary for managing fever or pain, it is a PRN medication, meaning it is only given based on specific symptoms (temperature greater than 100°F or pain). Immediate administration is not required unless the client’s symptoms meet these criteria.
B. Contact precautions
Contact precautions are crucial for preventing the spread of MRSA, a highly contagious pathogen. Immediate implementation is necessary to protect both the client and others in the healthcare setting from infection.
C. Vancomycin 500 mg IV piggyback every 6 hours
Vancomycin is prescribed to treat the MRSA infection. It should be administered as ordered to manage the infection effectively and prevent complications from the surgical site infection.
D. Place peripheral IV
The peripheral IV has already been placed, as indicated by the notes. This action would have been necessary before starting the IV medication orders but is not an immediate task at this time.
E. Change turban dressing by cleansing with sterile water, patting dry, applying dry gauze over incision, and wrapping head with kerlix
Changing the turban dressing is necessary to manage the infection at the surgical site. This must be done according to the prescribed procedure to maintain sterile conditions and support healing.
F. Strict intake and output
While monitoring intake and output is important, it does not need to be done immediately but should be started as per the order to monitor the client’s fluid balance over time.
G. Clear liquid diet
Initiating a clear liquid diet is important for nutritional support, but it does not need to be started immediately. It is part of the general care plan but does not have the same urgency as infection control and medication administration