A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has a newly applied fiberglass cast for a fractured tibia. Which of the following is the priority action for the nurse to take?

A. Divalproex: Divalproex is typically administered with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and enhance absorption. Administering it after breakfast or with a meal is recommended to reduce the risk of stomach upset and improve its bioavailability. Taking divalproex with food also helps to slow its absorption, which can decrease the incidence of adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting.
B. Mycostatin mouthwash: Mycostatin mouthwash is a topical antifungal medication used to treat oral candidiasis. Unlike systemic medications, its efficacy is not significantly influenced by food intake. Therefore, it can be administered before or after meals as prescribed, depending on the convenience of the patient. However, if the patient has oral lesions or discomfort, administering it after meals may be preferable to provide relief and ensure maximum contact time with affected areas.
C. Digoxin: Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside commonly used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It is typically administered on an empty stomach to facilitate optimal absorption. Giving digoxin before breakfast allows for consistent drug levels and reduces the risk of food interfering with its absorption. By administering it before meals, the nurse ensures that the medication is absorbed efficiently and its therapeutic effects are maximized.
D. Alendronate: Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication used in the treatment of osteoporosis to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. It requires administration on an empty stomach in the morning, usually at least 30 minutes before the first meal or beverage of the day, with a full glass of water. This timing ensures adequate absorption and minimizes the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration. Alendronate has poor oral bioavailability, and taking it with food, beverages, or medications can significantly decrease its absorption. Therefore, administering it before breakfast on an empty stomach is crucial to optimize its effectiveness and reduce the potential for adverse gastrointestinal effects.

A. CD4 T cell count 180 cells/mm3: In a client with HIV, monitoring the CD4 T cell count is crucial for assessing immune function and determining the progression of the disease. A CD4 T cell count of less than 200 cells/mm3 indicates severe immunosuppression and an increased risk of opportunistic infections, making it the priority laboratory value to monitor in this client.
B. Platelets 150,000/mm3: While platelet count is important for assessing clotting function, it is not the priority laboratory value in a client with HIV. Thrombocytopenia can occur in HIV but is often secondary to other factors such as medication side effects or opportunistic infections. However, a platelet count within the normal range of 150,000/mm3 is reassuring and does not require immediate intervention.
C. WBC 5000 mm3: White blood cell (WBC) count is essential for assessing overall immune function, but it is not the priority laboratory value in a client with HIV. A WBC count of 5000 mm3 is within the normal range and does not require urgent attention.
D. Positive Western blot test: While a positive Western blot test confirms HIV infection, it does not provide information about the client's current immune status or the need for immediate intervention. Confirmatory tests such as Western blot are important for diagnosis, but they do not provide ongoing monitoring of disease progression or immune function.