A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for levothyroxine.

Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor?

A- "My partner will use condoms with spermicides": Using condoms with spermicides can increase the effectiveness of contraception by combining a barrier method with a chemical method to kill sperm.

B.Using two condoms simultaneously (also known as "double bagging") is not recommended because the friction between them can increase the chance of them tearing.

C- "I will be able to remove my contraceptive sponge immediately after intercourse": The contraceptive sponge is a barrier method that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse. It should be left in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse to ensure effectiveness. Removing it immediately after intercourse would decrease its contraceptive effectiveness.

D- "My partner and I will use petroleum jelly with latex condoms": Petroleum jelly, along with other oil-based lubricants, should not be used with latex condoms. Oil-based substances can degrade latex, making the condom more prone to breakage. Water-based lubricants are recommended for use with latex condoms to ensure their integrity and effectiveness.

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.