A nurse is caring for a client who is complaining of thick respiratory secretions that are difficult to clear. What should the nurse encourage the client to do to help clear those secretions?

We know:

• The prescribed dose is 25 mg.
• The available concentration is 125 mg per 5 mL.

Step 2 is to set up the calculation.

We will use the formula: (Desired Dose in mL) = (Prescribed Dose in mg × Volume Available in mL) ÷ Concentration Available in mg

Step 3 is to plug in the values into the formula.

(Desired Dose in mL) = (25 mg × 5 mL) ÷ 125 mg

Step 4 is to perform the multiplication first.

25 mg × 5 mL = 125

Step 5 is to perform the division.

125 ÷ 125 mg = 1 mL

Step 6 is the result.

The nurse should administer 1 mL per dose.

Choice A reason: Encouraging the patient to drink more fluids is a primary intervention for managing thick respiratory secretions. Adequate hydration helps to thin the mucus, making it easier to expectorate. Fluids such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths are particularly effective. The normal daily fluid intake for an adult is about 2-3 liters, depending on individual needs and health conditions.

Choice B reason: Getting a prescription for an antitussive agent is not the best initial approach for managing thick respiratory secretions. Antitussive agents are used to suppress coughing, which can be counterproductive when trying to clear mucus from the respiratory tract. Instead, expectorants or mucolytics are more appropriate as they help to thin and loosen the mucus.

Choice C reason: Teaching effective deep breathing is beneficial for overall lung health and can help in mobilizing secretions. However, it is not as immediately effective as increasing fluid intake for thinning thick secretions. Deep breathing exercises can be part of a comprehensive respiratory care plan but should be combined with other interventions like hydration.

Choice D reason: Changing the patient’s position every 2 hours is a good practice for preventing complications such as pressure ulcers and promoting lung expansion. However, it is not specifically targeted at thinning thick respiratory secretions. Positional changes can aid in the drainage of secretions but are secondary to ensuring adequate hydration.