A nurse is assisting with the plan of care for a 10-month-old infant who has HIV. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

Explanation

D. Muscle cramps

Hyponatremia is a condition characterized by low levels of sodium in the blood. Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and nerve and muscle function. When sodium levels are low, it can lead to imbalances in fluid levels and cause muscle cramps and weakness.

Constipation in (option A) is incorrect because it is more commonly associated with other conditions such as dehydration or electrolyte imbalances like hypercalcemia.

Blurred vision in (option B) is not a typical finding in hyponatremia. Visual disturbances may occur in severe cases, but they are not a consistent symptom.

Hypertension (high blood pressure) in (option C) is not typically associated with hyponatremia. In fact, hyponatremia can sometimes lead to low blood pressure (hypotension) due to the fluid imbalances it causes.

Therefore, the nurse should expect muscle cramps (option D) as a finding in a client with hyponatremia due to the disruption of fluid balance and its impact on muscle function.

Explanation

B. Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward

Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis.

Wiping any excess medication from the inner canthus outward, is important to prevent the accumulation of excessive ointment, which can cause discomfort and affect vision. Using a clean, sterile cotton ball or tissue, the nurse should gently wipe any excess ointment from the inner corner of the eye (inner canthus) and then move outward to remove the excess ointment.

Gently massaging the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication in (option A) is not recommended. It can potentially cause discomfort or further irritation to the affected eye, especially in a young child. The ointment will naturally spread across the eye as the child blinks.

Placing an occlusive dressing on the affected eye in (option C) is not necessary for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. It may impede proper air circulation and potentially worsen the infection. It is important to promote hygiene and prevent the spread of infection by encouraging proper handwashing and avoiding touching or rubbing the affected eye.

Instructing the guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days in (option D) is not appropriate in this case. Erythromycin is an alternative antibiotic commonly used for conjunctivitis, but since the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment, the appropriate course of treatment would be to follow the prescribed medication as directed by the healthcare provider.