A nurse is assessing a 28-year-old client with HIV who has been admitted with pneumonia. Which of the following observations should the nurse prioritize?

Choice A rationale:
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication that is typically used long-term to control seizures. It is not a medication that can be stopped abruptly, as this can lead to the recurrence of seizures or even status epilepticus, a life-threatening condition characterized by continuous seizure activity.
The client's statement, "I'll be glad when I can stop taking this medicine," indicates a lack of understanding about the long- term nature of phenytoin therapy and the potential risks associated with stopping the medication prematurely.
Further teaching is needed to emphasize the importance of medication adherence and the potential consequences of non- adherence.

Choice B rationale:
Phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of gum tissue), so it is important for clients taking this medication to see a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
The client's statement, "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week," indicates an understanding of this potential side effect and the need for regular dental care.

Choice C rationale:
Phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that there is a small difference between the effective dose and the toxic dose.
Switching brands of phenytoin can lead to changes in blood levels of the medication, which could potentially result in therapeutic failure or toxicity.
The client's statement, "I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication," indicates an understanding of this important safety consideration.

Choice D rationale:
Phenytoin can interact with many other medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.
It is important for clients taking phenytoin to notify their doctor before taking any other medications to avoid potential drug interactions.
The client's statement, "I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications," indicates an understanding of this potential risk.

Choice A:
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. Activity intolerance is a common symptom, resulting in patients experiencing increased fatigue, pain, and decreased function with exertion.
A program of regular mild to moderate exercise is considered the cornerstone of management for fibromyalgia. Exercise improves physical fitness, reduces pain intensity, and enhances sleep quality. It also decreases fatigue and depression, and improves overall well-being and quality of life. The key is to start with low-impact activities, gradually increase intensity and duration over time, and listen to the body's signals to avoid overexertion.
Here's how exercise benefits patients with fibromyalgia:
Pain reduction: Exercise releases endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals in the brain. It also strengthens muscles and improves joint flexibility, leading to decreased pain intensity and frequency.
Improved physical fitness: Regular exercise increases cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and endurance, allowing patients to tolerate activity better and perform daily tasks with less fatigue.
Enhanced sleep quality: Exercise can regulate sleep patterns, promoting deeper sleep and reducing nighttime pain, leading to improved energy levels and mood throughout the day.
Reduced fatigue and depression: Exercise triggers the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and fatigue commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
Improved overall well-being: Regular physical activity enhances self-efficacy, reduces stress, and promotes social interaction, contributing to a better quality of life for patients with fibromyalgia.
Therefore, a program of regular mild to moderate exercise is the most effective recommendation for patients with fibromyalgia to address activity intolerance and improve their overall well-being.
Rationale for other choices:

Choice B: While daily meditation and guided imagery can be helpful for managing stress and improving sleep in fibromyalgia, they are not as effective as exercise in directly addressing activity intolerance and improving physical fitness and function.

Choice C: Referral to physical therapy for an assistive device may be necessary in some cases with severe limitations, but it is not the first-line intervention for addressing activity intolerance in most patients with fibromyalgia. Exercise should be the initial focus, with assistive devices considered later if needed.

Choice D: NSAID medications can offer temporary pain relief, but they do not address the underlying cause of activity intolerance in fibromyalgia and can have side effects like gastritis and kidney problems. NSAIDs should be used cautiously and only as a complementary therapy alongside exercise in managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
Remember, a tailored exercise program, starting with low-impact activities and gradually increasing intensity, is the key to managing activity intolerance and improving function in patients with fibromyalgia.