A nurse is assisting with discharge teaching for a client who requires oropharyngeal suctioning at home. The nurse should ensure that which of the following equipment is available for use at home?

The correct answer is choice D. Allow frequent rest periods.

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging fluids is not appropriate for a client with heart failure. Clients with heart failure often experience fluid overload due to the heart’s inability to pump effectively, leading to fluid retention.Encouraging additional fluid intake can exacerbate this condition, worsening symptoms such as edema and shortness of breath.

Choice B rationale:

Measuring vital signs every 8 hours may not be frequent enough for a client with heart failure, especially if they are experiencing acute symptoms.More frequent monitoring is often necessary to detect changes in the client’s condition promptly and to manage symptoms effectively.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining weight weekly is not sufficient for a client with heart failure. Daily weight monitoring is crucial as it helps in detecting fluid retention early.Sudden weight gain can indicate worsening heart failure and the need for adjustments in treatment.

Choice D rationale:

Allowing frequent rest periods is essential for clients with heart failure. These clients often experience fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance due to reduced cardiac output.Frequent rest periods help in managing fatigue and preventing overexertion, which can worsen heart failure symptoms.

The correct answer is choice B: Store opened insulin vials at room temperature for up to 4 weeks.

Choice B rationale: Opened insulin vials can be stored at room temperature (59°F to 86°F or 15°C to 30°C) for up to 4 weeks. After this period, the insulin may lose potency, and a new vial should be used.

Choice A rationale: Regular insulin is short-acting, and its peak effect occurs 2 to 3 hours after administration. Eating a snack 6 hours after insulin administration may not be necessary as the insulin would have already reached its peak effect, and blood glucose levels should be monitored accordingly.

Choice C rationale: Warming the insulin vial to dissolve crystals is not recommended. Insulin should be inspected before use, and if crystals or clumps are present, it should be discarded as this could indicate that the insulin has lost its effectiveness.

Choice D rationale: Unopened insulin vials should be stored in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F or 2°C to 8°C) and should not be frozen. Freezing can cause insulin to lose potency or become ineffective. Once opened, insulin vials can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 weeks, as mentioned in choice B.