A nurse is caring for a child who has a penicillin allergy.
Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse verify with the provider?

Choice A rationale:

Administering the medications using a 3-mL medication syringe is not the best practice. While it is possible to use a 3-mL syringe for medication administration, it is not the most efficient or safest method. A larger syringe allows for easier administration and reduces the risk of creating too much pressure which could potentially damage the PEG tube.

Choice B rationale:

Applying firm pressure on the syringe’s piston to infuse the medication is not recommended. This can create too much pressure in the PEG tube and could potentially cause damage. It is generally advised to allow the medication to flow into the tube via gravity. Choice C rationale:

Flushing the tubing with 30 mL of saline after the medication has been given is the correct technique. This helps to ensure that all of the medication has been administered and also helps to keep the tube clear of any potential blockages.

Choice D rationale:

Using the barrel of the syringe, allowing the medication to flow via gravity into the tube is a common practice. However, it is not the only step in the process. It is also important to flush the tube before and after medication administration to ensure all medication is delivered and to maintain the patency of the tube.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to soak his feet daily is not recommended for individuals with diabetes. Soaking the feet can increase the risk of foot problems, particularly if the person has nerve damage or poor blood flow. It can lead to dry and cracked skin, which can increase the risk of infection. Therefore, this intervention should not be included in the care plan.

Choice B rationale:

Assisting the client in developing an individualized meal plan is a crucial intervention for managing type 2 diabetes. Meal planning is the first step in healthy eating and is especially important for people with diabetes because food directly impacts blood glucose levels. An individualized meal plan considers the person’s goals, tastes, lifestyle, and any medicines they’re taking. Therefore, this intervention should be included in the care plan.

Choice C rationale:

Checking the client’s blood glucose level before meals and at bedtime is an essential part of managing diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels can help track the effect of diabetes medicines, understand how diet and exercise affect blood glucose levels, and detect if blood glucose levels are high or low. Therefore, this intervention should be included in the care plan.

Choice D rationale:

Administering an extra dose of insulin if the client’s blood glucose level drops to 50 mg/dl is not recommended. If a person’s blood glucose level is already low, administering additional insulin can lead to an insulin overdose, which can be lifethreatening. Therefore, this intervention should not be included in the care plan.