A nurse is caring for a client who has a contusion of the brainstem and reports thirst. The client's urinary output was 4,000 mL over the past 24 hours. The nurse should anticipate a prescription for which of the following intravenous (IV) medications?

Choice A reason: The statement that a DNR prescription means the client will only receive pain medication is incorrect. A DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order does not affect the provision of treatments other than those required to resuscitate the patient if their heart stops or they stop breathing. Patients with a DNR can still receive all other medical treatments and interventions aimed at managing symptoms and improving quality of life, including pain management.

Choice B reason: A DNR prescription does not limit the current treatment regimen in terms of ongoing treatments for the patient's condition. The DNR order specifically refers to not performing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if the patient's breathing or heart stops. All other aspects of the patient's care plan, including aggressive treatments, can continue if they align with the patient's wishes and medical advice.

Choice C reason: This is the correct statement. A DNR prescription allows the patient to continue with their current treatment regimen. It is a directive that applies only in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, indicating that CPR should not be performed. However, it does not preclude the patient from receiving other medical treatments or interventions.

Choice D reason: A DNR prescription does not inherently limit the ability to receive invasive procedures. The decision to pursue or avoid invasive procedures would be based on the patient's overall treatment goals, prognosis, and personal preferences, not solely on the presence of a DNR order.

Choice A reason: Injecting the medication into the abdomen above the level of the iliac crest is not recommended. The preferred sites for subcutaneous injections are the fatty tissue over the triceps, the abdomen from below the costal margin to the iliac crests, and the anterior aspects of the thighs. The area above the iliac crest may not have sufficient subcutaneous tissue, which could affect the absorption of the medication.

Choice B reason: Using a 1-inch needle can be appropriate depending on the client's body mass. For most adults, a 5/8-inch to 1-inch needle is recommended for subcutaneous injections to ensure the medication is delivered to the subcutaneous tissue and not into the muscle.

Choice C reason: Using a 25-gauge needle is the appropriate action when administering heparin subcutaneously. A smaller gauge needle, such as 25-gauge, is typically used for subcutaneous injections to minimize discomfort and tissue trauma.

Choice D reason: Massaging the injection site after administration of the medication is not recommended when administering heparin subcutaneously. Massaging the site can cause the medication to be absorbed more quickly than intended and may increase the risk of bleeding.