A nurse is collecting data from a 3-month-old infant who is 6 hr postoperative following a cleft palate repair.

Which of the following pain rating tools should the nurse use?

The correct technique for using an albuterol MDI involves closing the mouth around the mouthpiece to create a seal. This helps ensure that the medication is delivered directly into the lungs and maximizes its effectiveness. It also helps prevent the medication from escaping and being wasted.

"Exhale immediately after inhaling": This instruction is not accurate. After closing the mouth around the mouthpiece and activating the inhaler to release the medication, the client should inhale slowly and deeply through the mouth, holding their breath for about 10 seconds if possible. Exhaling immediately after inhaling would not allow enough time for the medication to be absorbed effectively.

"Tilt your head forward while inhaling": Tilted head position is not necessary when using an albuterol MDI. The client should hold the inhaler in an upright position, with the mouthpiece directed toward their mouth. This allows for proper delivery of the medication.

"Take three quick breaths while depressing the canister": This instruction is not accurate for using an albuterol MDI. The correct technique involves taking a slow and deep breath in through the mouth, while simultaneously depressing the canister to release the medication. Taking three quick breaths may not allow enough time for adequate medication delivery.

Answer: C

Rationale:

A) Encourage strength-training exercise: Strength-training exercises can be beneficial in building muscle mass and improving overall strength. However, for a client with leukemia experiencing chronic fatigue, this may be too strenuous and could exacerbate their fatigue rather than alleviate it. It is better to encourage light to moderate activities based on their tolerance.

B) Increase the client's fluids to 4 L per day: While adequate hydration is important, increasing fluids to 4 L per day may not be suitable for all clients and could pose risks, particularly if there are concerns about fluid balance or renal function. This recommendation should be tailored to the client's specific needs and medical condition.

C) Increase protein in the diet: Increasing protein in the diet can help improve energy levels and support the body's repair and regeneration processes. For clients with leukemia who are experiencing chronic fatigue, a high-protein diet can aid in maintaining muscle mass and overall nutritional status, helping to combat fatigue.

D) Encourage the client to have continual bed rest: Encouraging continual bed rest can lead to deconditioning and further exacerbate fatigue. It is important to balance rest with periods of gentle activity to maintain some level of physical function and avoid complications such as muscle atrophy or deep vein thrombosis.