A nurse is caring for a client who has acute gastritis and is NPO. The client has a new prescription to resume oral intake. Which of the following items should the nurse offer the client?

Choice A Reason

Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a marker of inflammation and is commonly elevated in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is not a direct adverse effect of NSAID therapy. NSAIDs are more likely to cause gastrointestinal issues, such as bleeding, which would be detected by a fecal occult blood test.

Choice B Reason

Elevated creatinine clearance is not typically associated with NSAID use. In fact, NSAIDs can potentially reduce kidney function, leading to decreased creatinine clearance. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

Choice C Reason

Increased serum potassium levels can occur with NSAID use, especially in patients with compromised kidney function. However, this is less common compared to gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a more direct and frequent adverse effect of NSAID therapy.

Choice D Reason

Positive fecal occult blood test is the correct answer. NSAIDs can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be detected through a fecal occult blood test. This is a well-documented adverse effect of NSAID therapy and is a significant concern for patients on long-term NSAID treatment.

Choice A Reason:

Provide assistance with ambulation: Patients with cerebellar tumors often experience ataxia, which is a lack of muscle coordination affecting voluntary movements such as walking and balance. Assisting with ambulation is crucial to prevent falls and ensure the patient’s safety. The cerebellum plays a significant role in motor control, and damage to this area can severely impair a patient’s ability to move safely. Therefore, providing assistance with ambulation is a priority to prevent injury and promote mobility.

Choice B Reason:

Facilitate retention of facts by repeating instructions: While repeating instructions can be beneficial for patients with cognitive impairments, it is not the primary concern for a patient with a cerebellar tumor. The main issues with cerebellar tumors are related to motor control and balance. Although cognitive support is important, ensuring physical safety through assistance with ambulation takes precedence.

Choice C Reason:

Place the client in a darkened room: Placing a patient in a darkened room might help with symptoms like photophobia (sensitivity to light), but it does not address the primary concerns associated with cerebellar tumors, such as balance and coordination. This action does not directly contribute to the patient’s immediate safety and mobility needs.

Choice D Reason:

Speak slowly and clearly: Clear communication is always important in nursing care, especially for patients who may have difficulty understanding due to neurological issues. However, for a patient with a cerebellar tumor, the immediate priority is to address motor dysfunction and prevent falls. Speaking slowly and clearly is supportive but not the primary action needed to ensure the patient’s safety.