A nurse is caring for a client who is being treated for acute opioid toxicity. The client has a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) prescription, but the family would like to remove it. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Rationale:

• Sensation: Tingling indicates possible nerve irritation or mild neurovascular compromise. This is often seen in fractures when swelling or bone displacement compresses nerves near the injury site, especially in long bones like the radius.
• Edema: Swelling is a nonspecific but common response to tissue injury. It occurs with ligament strain (sprain), bone disruption (fracture), and joint trauma (dislocation), all of which lead to localized inflammation and fluid accumulation.
• Ecchymosis: Bruising results from soft tissue bleeding and is common in all three conditions due to trauma to blood vessels. Ligament tears (sprain), bone injury (fracture), and capsule damage (dislocation) can all lead to ecchymosis.
• Pain level: Moderate pain, such as a 4/10 rating, is consistent with both sprains and fractures. Sprains stretch or tear ligaments, while fractures disrupt bone structure. Dislocations usually present with severe, sharp pain that impairs joint movement entirely.

Rationale for correct choices

• Report to the provider immediately if a dry cough develops: ACE inhibitors or similar antihypertensive medications can cause a persistent dry cough as a side effect. Early reporting allows the provider to evaluate the need for medication adjustment or substitution to prevent further complications, such as noncompliance or worsening respiratory symptoms.

• Report to the provider immediately if the client experiences muscle aches: Muscle aches or myalgia can indicate statin-induced myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, particularly with elevated LDL and prescription of statins such as rosuvastatin. Early detection prevents severe muscle breakdown, renal impairment, or other complications.

Rationale for incorrect choices

• Increase sodium intake: The client has hypertension, and increasing sodium intake would exacerbate elevated blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications, including heart failure and stroke. Sodium restriction is essential to support blood pressure control and overall cardiovascular health.

• Take rosuvastatin only in the morning: Rosuvastatin can be taken at any time of day, unlike some other statins that are recommended in the evening. Restricting it to the morning is unnecessary and may reduce adherence if it conflicts with the client’s routine. Emphasis should be on consistent daily intake rather than timing.