A nurse is caring for four clients for whom she has to administer oral medications in the morning. The nurse should administer which of the following medications before breakfast?

A. Assess the bowel sounds:

Bowel sounds are not directly related to the assessment of ascites. Bowel sounds are more relevant in assessing gastrointestinal function and peristalsis. While bowel changes could potentially be a sign of complications, monitoring abdominal girth is more specific to tracking ascites.

B. Frequently ambulate child:

While ambulation is important for overall health, it's not a direct assessment method for monitoring ascites. Ambulating a child might have benefits, but it won't provide specific information about the presence or progression of ascites.

C. Weigh child weekly:

Weekly weighing can provide some information about overall fluid balance, but it might not be as sensitive as measuring abdominal girth when it comes to detecting changes in ascites. Additionally, monitoring weight alone might not give insight into the distribution of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

D. Monitor and measure the abdominal girth.

Explanation: The presence of ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) in a child with nephrotic syndrome could indicate worsening kidney function and fluid balance. Monitoring and measuring the abdominal girth is a reliable way to assess changes in the amount of fluid accumulation over time. An increase in abdominal girth could suggest a worsening condition.

A) Place a tongue depressor in the client's mouth:

Incorrect. Placing a tongue depressor in the client's mouth is not recommended during a seizure. Doing so can lead to injury, as the child may bite down on the depressor and cause harm to their teeth or mouth.

B) Restrain the client:

Incorrect. Restraining a person during a seizure can be extremely dangerous. It can lead to physical harm to both the person experiencing the seizure and the person trying to restrain them. Restraining can increase the risk of fractures, dislocations, and other injuries.

C) Assess the client's airway patency:

Correct. Assessing the client's airway patency is essential during a seizure. The nurse should ensure that the child's airway is clear and open to maintain proper breathing. This involves observing for any obstruction or difficulty in breathing and taking appropriate measures to keep the airway open.

D) Remove objects from the client's bed:

Correct. Removing objects from the client's bed is a necessary action to prevent injury during a seizure. Objects on the bed can pose a risk of harm to the child if they were to strike them during the seizure. Creating a safe environment by removing potential hazards is important.

E) Place the client in a side-lying position:

Correct. Placing the client in a side-lying position is recommended during a seizure. This position helps prevent aspiration and maintains a clear airway. It also reduces the risk of choking and allows any fluids to drain from the mouth, minimizing the risk of choking.

In summary:

Choice A is incorrect because placing a tongue depressor can cause injury.

Choice B is incorrect because restraining can lead to harm.

Choice C is correct because assessing the airway ensures proper breathing.

Choice D is correct because removing objects reduces the risk of injury.

Choice E is correct because placing the client in a side-lying position helps maintain a clear airway and prevents aspiration.