A nurse is caring for a client who has pneumonia and has been receiving oxygen therapy for several days.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of an adverse effect of oxygen therapy?

Choice A rationale:

Caffeinated beverages are known to cause diarrhea. Caffeine naturally occurs in many foods and drinks, including coffee and chocolate. It speeds up the digestive system and can cause loose stools. In addition, caffeine can irritate the stomach lining during digestion. Therefore, it’s important for the nurse to educate the patient about the potential effects of caffeinated beverages on their digestive system.

Choice B rationale:

Low-fiber cereal is not typically associated with triggering diarrhea. In fact, foods that are low in fiber can actually help firm up stools and are often recommended for individuals experiencing diarrhea. Therefore, while it’s not harmful, it’s not a primary concern for patients with diarrhea.

Choice C rationale:

White rice is another food that does not typically cause diarrhea. Similar to low-fiber cereal, white rice can help firm up stools and is often recommended for individuals experiencing diarrhea. It’s not a primary concern for patients with diarrhea.

Choice D rationale:

Ripe bananas do not typically cause diarrhea. They are actually part of the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), which is often recommended for individuals experiencing diarrhea. Therefore, it’s not a primary concern for patients with diarrhea.

In conclusion, when educating a patient about food and drinks that can trigger diarrhea, the nurse should include caffeinated beverages as they can potentially cause diarrhea. However, low-fiber cereal, white rice, and ripe bananas are not typically associated with triggering diarrhea.

Choice A rationale:

Hypertension is not typically a sign of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can cause symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, digestive problems, and frequent urination. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not commonly associated with hypokalemia.

Choice B rationale:

Cerebral edema, or swelling in the brain, is not a common symptom of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is more likely to cause symptoms related to muscle function and digestion, as potassium is an essential mineral that helps regulate muscle contractions, maintain healthy nerve function, and regulate fluid balance.

Choice C rationale:

Muscle weakness is a common symptom of hypokalemia. Potassium helps regulate muscle contractions. When blood potassium levels are low, your muscles produce weaker contractions. This can result in symptoms like muscle weakness and fatigue.

Choice D rationale:

Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can cause digestive problems, but these are more likely to be issues like constipation rather than increased bowel sounds.