A nurse is assessing a client who has a heart rate of 40/min. The client is diaphoretic and has chest pain. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?

Choice A Reason

Review the client’s Hgb level prior to administration. This is the correct action. Monitoring hemoglobin (Hgb) levels is crucial before administering epoetin because it helps determine the appropriate dosage and ensures the treatment is safe and effective. Epoetin is used to stimulate red blood cell production, and administering it without checking Hgb levels can lead to complications such as hypertension or thromboembolic events if the Hgb level is too high.

Choice B Reason

Use the Z-track method when administering the medication. This statement is incorrect. The Z-track method is used for intramuscular injections to prevent medication from leaking into subcutaneous tissues. Epoetin is typically administered subcutaneously or intravenously, not intramuscularly, so the Z-track method is not applicable.

Choice C Reason

Shake the vial for 30 seconds prior to withdrawing the medication. This statement is incorrect. Shaking the vial of epoetin can damage the protein structure of the medication, rendering it ineffective. The vial should be gently swirled if necessary, but not shaken.

Choice D Reason

Ensure the client is not taking iron supplements while on this medication. This statement is incorrect. Iron supplements are often necessary when administering epoetin because iron is required for the production of hemoglobin. Ensuring adequate iron levels helps maximize the effectiveness of epoetin therapy.

Choice A Reason

“Lie on your left side.” This statement is incorrect. After a liver biopsy, the client should lie on their right side to apply pressure to the biopsy site and help prevent bleeding.

Choice B Reason

“Lie on your right side.” This is the correct instruction. Lying on the right side helps compress the liver biopsy site, reducing the risk of bleeding and promoting clot formation.

Choice C Reason

“Increase your fluid intake.” This statement is not specifically related to post-liver biopsy care. While staying hydrated is generally good advice, it is not a primary instruction for post-biopsy care.

Choice D Reason

“Decrease your fluid intake.” This statement is incorrect. There is no need to decrease fluid intake after a liver biopsy. Proper hydration is important for overall health and recovery.