A client with chemotherapy induced nausea receives a prescription for metoclopramide. Which adverse effect is most important for the nurse to report?

A. Administers onto the fleshy outer thigh: This is the recommended site for epinephrine auto-injection because it allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream. The outer thigh is a large muscle area, which helps in the rapid distribution of the medication.

B. Inserts the injection pen through clothing: It is generally acceptable to inject epinephrine through clothing in an emergency situation. This practice ensures that there is no delay in administering the life-saving medication, which is crucial during an anaphylactic reaction.

C. Cleanses the injection pen for re-use: Epinephrine auto-injectors are designed for single use only. Reusing the pen can lead to contamination and reduced effectiveness of the medication. It is important to dispose of the used injector properly and obtain a new one for future use.

D. Holds the pen in place after injection: Holding the pen in place for a few seconds after injection ensures that the full dose of medication is delivered. This practice helps in maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment during an anaphylactic emergency.

The correct answer is C. Instruct the client to request assistance when ambulating to the bathroom.

Choice A reason:

Advise the client that the medication should start to work in about 30 minutes.

While it is important to inform the client about the onset of action of the medication, this is not the highest priority. Codeine, an opioid, can cause dizziness and sedation, which increases the risk of falls. Therefore, safety measures take precedence over informing the client about the medication’s onset time.

Choice B reason:

Administer a stool softener/laxative at the same time as the analgesic.

Opioids like codeine can cause constipation, so administering a stool softener or laxative is a good practice. However, this action is not the highest priority when considering the immediate safety of the client. Ensuring the client’s safety from potential falls due to dizziness or sedation is more urgent.

Choice C reason:

Instruct the client to request assistance when ambulating to the bathroom.

This is the correct answer because codeine can cause dizziness, sedation, and orthostatic hypotension, increasing the risk of falls. Ensuring the client requests assistance when moving can prevent potential injuries, making it the highest priority nursing action.

Choice D reason:

Tell the client to notify the nurse if the pain is not relieved.

While it is important for the client to communicate about the effectiveness of pain relief, this is not the highest priority. The immediate concern is the client’s safety due to the sedative effects of codeine. Therefore, preventing falls and injuries takes precedence.