A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who is at 36 weeks of gestation and is in preterm labor. The nurse should expect a prescription for which of the following medications for the client?

Rationale:

A. "You can apply counterpressure to your back with each position change.": Counterpressure is commonly used during labor to relieve back pain caused by fetal positioning. It is not relevant for postoperative cesarean pain, which is abdominal.

B. "You should change positions as little as possible.": Limiting movement after surgery can increase the risk of complications such as pneumonia and venous thromboembolism. Frequent, supported movement is encouraged to promote recovery and circulation.

C. "You should use patterned-paced breathing when changing positions.": Patterned-paced breathing is typically used during labor for pain management. While breathing techniques may offer mild comfort, they do not provide adequate support for incisional pain during movement.

D. "You can splint the incision with a pillow when changing positions.": Splinting the incision with a pillow provides support to the abdominal muscles, helping reduce tension and pain during movement. This is a safe and effective nonpharmacological strategy for post-cesarean clients.

Rationale:

A. Removing an NG tube: Removing a nasogastric tube is a task that can be safely delegated to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) under appropriate supervision, as it is considered a stable, routine procedure that does not require complex assessment.

B. Administering a subcutaneous insulin injection: LPNs are trained and authorized to administer subcutaneous injections, including insulin, as long as the client's condition is stable and the dose is clearly prescribed.

C. Providing discharge teaching about home IV medication therapy: Discharge education involving IV therapy requires comprehensive teaching, clinical judgment, and evaluation of understanding, which falls within the scope of practice of a registered nurse (RN).

D. Collecting a sputum culture: Collecting a sputum specimen is a basic nursing task that can be performed by an LPN or even by trained assistive personnel, depending on facility policy. It does not require the expertise of an RN.