A nurse is caring for a client with numerous episodes of watery diarrhea. The client reports eating some spoiled deli meat earlier in the day. The client asks if they should take loperamide (Imodium) to stop the diarrhea. What would be an appropriate response from the nurse?

Step-by-Step Calculation:

Step 1: Determine the dose required.

• Dose required = 1.5 mg

Step 2: Determine the dose available per tablet.

• Dose available per tablet = 0.5 mg

Step 3: Calculate the number of tablets needed.

• Number of tablets = Dose required ÷ Dose available per tablet
• Number of tablets = 1.5 mg ÷ 0.5 mg/tablet

Step 4: Perform the division.

• 1.5 ÷ 0.5 = 3

Result: The nurse should administer 3 tablets.

Therefore, the nurse should administer 3 tablets.

Choice A Reason:

“Call the provider” is important but not the first priority. The immediate concern is to maintain the client’s intravenous access to ensure they can receive any necessary medications or fluids promptly. Once the line is secured, the provider should be notified to receive further instructions and manage the client’s condition.

Choice B Reason:

“Notify the blood bank” is also crucial but comes after ensuring the client’s immediate safety. The blood bank needs to be informed to investigate the cause of the reaction and prevent further issues, but this step follows the initial emergency interventions.

Choice C Reason:

“Collect a urine specimen” is necessary to check for hemolysis, which can occur during a transfusion reaction. However, this is not the first step. The priority is to stabilize the client by maintaining IV access with normal saline.

Choice D Reason:

“Keep the line open with 0.9% NS through new tubing” is the correct first intervention. This action ensures that the client remains hydrated and that the IV line is available for any emergency medications or treatments. Using new tubing prevents any contamination from the transfusion set.