A nurse is caring for a client who is 16 hr postoperative and is experiencing abdominal gas pains. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Isoniazid (INH) can cause liver toxicity, so it is important for the client to have regular liver function tests while taking the medication to monitor for any potential liver damage.

B. Isoniazid is typically prescribed for a longer duration, often 6 to 9 months, for the treatment of tuberculosis. A 1-week course is not sufficient for tuberculosis treatment.

C. Isoniazid does not typically cause an increase in blood pressure. This statement is not accurate regarding the medication’s side effects.

D. Isoniazid should not be taken with antacids because antacids can interfere with the absorption of the medication. Therefore, the client should avoid taking antacids with INH.

A. Anticipate client to be prepped for cardiac catheterization.
The client is presenting with signs and symptoms indicative of acute myocardial infarction (MI), including chest pain radiating to the left arm, nausea, diaphoresis, tachycardia, and abnormal diagnostic results such as elevated troponin and myoglobin levels. The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) showing ST segment elevation and T wave changes is also suggestive of an acute MI. Cardiac catheterization is commonly used to diagnose and treat acute coronary syndrome, particularly if there is a suspicion of a blockage in the coronary arteries. This is the most appropriate intervention at this time.
B. Assist with a continuous heparin infusion.
Heparin is often used in the management of acute coronary syndrome to prevent further clot formation. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take without a provider's prescription. Heparin may be indicated depending on the clinical scenario and provider's orders, but it should not be administered without a specific prescription.
C. Encourage the client to ambulate.
Encouraging ambulation is contraindicated in this situation. The client is likely experiencing an acute MI, and ambulation could increase myocardial oxygen demand, worsening the condition. Rest and monitoring are essential in this phase of care.
D. Anticipate an increased dosage of metoprolol.
Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that may be used to control heart rate and reduce myocardial oxygen demand in the setting of an MI. However, the dosage adjustment should be based on the provider's orders and the client's hemodynamic status. The nurse should monitor the client closely for signs of bradycardia or hypotension, which could necessitate adjusting the dosage, but this is not the immediate action.
E. Obtain a prescription for client to be NPO.
The client is likely to require diagnostic tests and possibly interventions such as cardiac catheterization or surgery. In preparation for these procedures, the client should be NPO (nothing by mouth) to reduce the risk of aspiration and to ensure that the client is ready for potential interventions. However, this is not the first action but should be anticipated soon after assessment.
F. Request a prescription for an antibiotic.
An antibiotic is not indicated at this time as there is no evidence of infection in the client's presentation. The focus should be on managing the acute myocardial infarction, not treating an infection.