A nurse is administering heparin subcutaneously to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Assist the client to a left lateral position. The preferred position for vaginal suppository insertion is the dorsal recumbent (lying on the back with knees bent) or the lithotomy position. The left lateral position is typically used for rectal suppository administration, not vaginal medication insertion.

B. Insert the suppository along the posterior wall of the vaginal canal. The suppository should be inserted along the posterior vaginal wall, as this allows for proper absorption and helps ensure the medication remains in place. The client should be advised to lie down for at least 10-15 minutes after insertion to prevent the suppository from slipping out.

C. Apply a light coating of petroleum jelly to the suppository. Petroleum jelly should never be used as it can interfere with medication absorption and may break down the suppository. If lubrication is needed, a small amount of water-soluble lubricant (e.g., KY Jelly) can be applied to facilitate insertion.

D. Put on sterile gloves before handling the suppository. Clean gloves (not sterile gloves) are sufficient for vaginal suppository administration. The vaginal canal is not a sterile environment, so strict aseptic technique is not required. However, proper hand hygiene and glove use are essential to prevent contamination and infection.

A. "If my pain is not relieved in 20 minutes, I will take a second tablet." Sublingual nitroglycerin should be taken at 5-minute intervals, up to a maximum of three doses within 15 minutes. If chest pain persists after three doses, emergency medical assistance is necessary, as this may indicate a myocardial infarction. Delaying a second dose for 20 minutes may lead to worsening of the condition and delay appropriate treatment.

B. "I will keep my tablets on a shelf in the bathroom." Nitroglycerin is highly sensitive to heat, light, and moisture, which can cause it to lose potency. Storing it in the bathroom, where temperature and humidity fluctuate, can degrade the medication. It should be kept in its original dark glass container with the lid tightly closed and stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat sources.

C. "I should be sure to swallow the tablet whole." Sublingual nitroglycerin is designed to dissolve under the tongue for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. Swallowing it whole delays its effect because it would need to pass through the digestive system before being absorbed, reducing its ability to quickly relieve angina. Clients should be instructed to place the tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve completely without chewing or swallowing.

D. “If my mouth is dry, I will take a sip of water before I take the tablet.” A dry mouth can slow the dissolution of the sublingual tablet, delaying its absorption and effectiveness. Taking a sip of water before administration ensures the tablet dissolves properly under the tongue, allowing for rapid relief of angina symptoms. However, clients should avoid drinking excessive amounts of water that might wash the tablet down before it dissolves.