A nurse is assisting in the care of a client

Which of the following interventions should the nurse plan to implement? Select all that apply.

A) Tonic-clonic seizures: Tonic-clonic seizures are typically the result of a seizure disorder, but during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), a controlled seizure is intentionally induced to facilitate the therapeutic effects. After the procedure, there should not be uncontrolled tonic-clonic seizures. The goal is to induce a seizure under controlled conditions during the procedure itself, so this is not an expected finding 15 minutes post-ECT.

B) Paresthesias: Paresthesias (tingling or numbness) are not a common immediate side effect following ECT. While ECT can have some neurological effects, paresthesias are more commonly associated with other neurological conditions or nerve injuries, rather than as a direct result of the procedure itself.

C) Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is not a typical immediate consequence of ECT. While ECT can have a range of physical and psychological side effects, sleep apnea, which involves breathing interruptions during sleep, is not an expected finding following the procedure.

D) Disorientation: Disorientation is a common and expected finding following ECT. It typically occurs due to the temporary effects of anesthesia, the brain’s response to the electrical stimulation, and the stress of the procedure. Clients often experience confusion, memory loss, and disorientation for a short period, particularly in the first 15 minutes after the procedure, as the anesthesia wears off and they recover from the induced seizure. This is a normal part of the recovery process.

A) Mix the 2 medications together prior to administration: It is not recommended to mix medications together before administering them through an NG tube unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider or the pharmacy. Some medications can interact or precipitate when combined, which could reduce their effectiveness or cause harmful reactions. Therefore, it is safer to administer each medication separately, followed by a flush.

B) Add the medications to a small amount of the formula: Medications should not be mixed with enteral feeding formula, as it can affect the absorption of the medication and alter its effectiveness. Additionally, the medications could interact with components of the formula, leading to complications or reduced efficacy.

C) Flush the tube with at least 30 mL of sterile water prior to administering the medications: This is the correct action. Flushing the NG tube with 30 mL of sterile water before administering medications helps ensure the tube is clear and patent, preventing clogging. It also prepares the tube to receive the medications, ensuring proper delivery into the gastrointestinal tract.

D) Connect the NG tube to suction 10 minutes after administration of the medications: Connecting the NG tube to suction immediately after medication administration could remove the medications before they are absorbed. It is important to wait at least 30 minutes after administering medications before connecting the NG tube to suction to ensure the medication is absorbed adequately.