A nurse is caring for a client who consumed alcohol 2 days after taking disulfiram. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following findings?

Choice A reason: Applying suction while inserting risks trauma to nasal mucosa, as continuous pressure can tear delicate tissues or cause bleeding. Proper technique involves inserting without suction, then applying it on withdrawal to safely remove secretions, minimizing injury and ensuring effective clearance without damaging the airway lining.

Choice B reason: Intermittent suction for 30 seconds exceeds safe limits; guidelines recommend 10-15 seconds to avoid hypoxia. Prolonged suction depletes oxygen in the airway, especially in nasopharyngeal suctioning, where ventilation is obstructed, risking respiratory distress or cardiac complications in an adult client with compromised breathing.

Choice C reason: Inserting the catheter 10 cm (4 in) is too shallow for nasopharyngeal suctioning in adults, where 16-20 cm reaches the pharynx. Insufficient depth fails to clear secretions effectively, leaving mucus in lower airways, potentially worsening obstruction or infection, as the catheter must target the secretion source accurately.

Choice D reason: Waiting 1 minute between attempts allows oxygen levels to stabilize, preventing hypoxia during nasopharyngeal suctioning. This interval ensures the client reoxygenates after airway occlusion, reducing risks of desaturation or arrhythmia, aligning with safe practice to maintain respiratory stability while clearing mucus effectively in adults.

Choice A reason: Cantaloupe is potassium-rich, about 400 mg per cup, due to its fruit sugar content. It’s unsuitable for low-potassium diets, as it elevates serum levels significantly.

Choice B reason: Orange juice contains around 500 mg potassium per cup, a high amount. Its citric nature doesn’t offset this, making it inappropriate for potassium restriction.

Choice C reason: Sweet potato has over 500 mg potassium per serving, concentrated in its starchy flesh. It’s a poor choice for minimizing potassium in electrolyte imbalances.

Choice D reason: Baked chicken breast offers less than 300 mg potassium per serving, far lower than fruits or tubers. It’s the best option for a low-potassium diet here.