A client with intestinal obstruction has a nasogastric tube to low intermittent suction and is receiving an intravenous (IV) infusion of lactated Ringer's at 100 mL/hour.
Which finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider? Reference Range: Potassium (3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L).

Choice A rationale:

Assessment of tobacco use geared toward adolescents is an important topic, but it may not directly address the immediate concerns related to the increase in suicides in the community. While substance abuse can be a risk factor for mental health issues, focusing on stress self-management techniques may be more relevant in this context as it can help adolescents cope with various stressors and emotions that could contribute to suicidal thoughts.

Choice C rationale:

Showing statistics on suicide rates may be informative but may not be the most engaging and effective approach to teaching adolescents about mental health. Statistics alone may not provide them with practical tools and strategies to manage their mental well-being.

Choice D rationale:

Providing handouts for local substance abuse treatment centers is important if substance abuse is a concern, but it may not address the broader issue of mental health and suicide prevention. The primary focus should be on teaching adolescents how to manage stress and emotions in a healthy way, as this can be a preventive measure for various mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts.

Stomatitis refers to the inflammation of the mouth and oral mucosa, which can cause pain and difficulty swallowing. In the context of a client receiving chemotherapy, stomatitis is a common side effect that can occur due to the effects of chemotherapy on rapidly dividing cells, including those in the oral cavity. When a client develops stomatitis, it is important for the practical nurse (PN) to obtain information about the client's ability to swallow during a focused assessment. This is because stomatitis can significantly impact a client's ability to eat and drink comfortably, which can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Assessing the client's ability to swallow helps determine the extent of the issue and guides appropriate interventions and support.

Let's briefly evaluate the other options:

a) Urinary output.
Urinary output is not directly related to stomatitis. Stomatitis primarily affects the oral cavity, and its impact on urinary output is minimal or nonexistent. While monitoring urinary output is important for assessing hydration status, it is not the priority in this situation.

c) Frequency of bowel movements.
The frequency of bowel movements is unrelated to stomatitis. Stomatitis primarily affects the mouth, and its presence does not directly influence bowel movements. Assessing bowel movements may be relevant for other concerns, but it is not specifically related to stomatitis.

d) Blood pressure while standing.
Blood pressure while standing, also known as orthostatic blood pressure, is not directly relevant to stomatitis. Stomatitis primarily affects the oral cavity and does not typically have a direct impact on blood pressure. Assessing blood pressure while standing may be appropriate for other health concerns, such as orthostatic hypotension, but it is not the priority in this situation.

In summary, when a client receiving chemotherapy develops stomatitis, the practical nurse should focus on assessing the client's ability to swallow as it directly relates to the impact of stomatitis on the client's nutrition and hydration.