A nurse is caring for a client who has lung cancer and has a sealed radiation implant. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

Rationale:

A. Provide a quiet environment for the client: Minimizing noise and stimulation helps reduce stress and prevents spikes in intracranial pressure (ICP). A calm environment is essential for neurologically compromised clients.

B. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe: Coughing can increase thoracic pressure and, consequently, ICP. In clients with elevated ICP, activities that increase intrathoracic or intra-abdominal pressure should be avoided to prevent worsening brain injury.

C. Obtain client vital signs every 8 hr: Clients with increased ICP require frequent monitoring, often hourly or every 2–4 hours, to detect changes in neurologic status or signs of Cushing's triad. Every 8 hours is insufficient for early intervention.

D. Maintain the head of the bed at a 30 degree angle: Elevating the head promotes venous outflow from the brain without compromising perfusion. A 30-degree elevation is a commonly recommended position to help control ICP levels.

E. Administer stool softeners to the client: Straining during bowel movements increases intra-abdominal pressure and can elevate ICP. Stool softeners reduce this risk and are a supportive intervention in the management of increased ICP.

Rationale:

A. Alkaline phosphatase: This enzyme is typically used to assess liver or bone disorders, not renal function. Although some values may rise due to medications or illness, it is not a primary marker for kidney health in transplant clients.

B. Amylase: Amylase is used to evaluate pancreatic function and is not directly related to kidney function. It may be elevated in pancreatitis or abdominal conditions, but it does not provide information about renal performance.

C. Creatinine: Serum creatinine is a key indicator of renal function and is commonly monitored alongside BUN in clients taking nephrotoxic drugs like cyclosporine. Elevations may signal impaired kidney function or transplant rejection.

D. Bilirubin: Bilirubin reflects liver function and bile metabolism rather than kidney function. Although important in overall health assessment, it is not used to evaluate renal function in clients post-transplant.