A nurse is collecting data from a client who has atrial fibrillation. When documenting the quality of the client's pulse, which of the following terms should the nurse use?

a. Blood glucose 150 mg/dL: While elevated blood glucose may be a concern, potassium levels are more critical in the context of acute gastroenteritis, which can lead to fluid and electrolyte

imbalances.

b. Urine specific gravity 1.035: Elevated urine specific gravity indicates concentrated urine and possible dehydration. However, the low potassium level takes precedence as it can lead to

serious cardiac complications.

c. Weight loss of 3% of total body weight: Weight loss is a concern, but the immediate risk of hypokalemia (low potassium) takes priority.

d. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This low potassium level is a critical finding that requires prompt attention, as it can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and other serious complications.

Rationale for A: Taking enteric-coated pills with meals is generally acceptable as food does not affect the integrity of the enteric coating. The coating is designed to withstand the acidic environment of the stomach and dissolve in the more neutral pH of the intestine.
Rationale for B: Enteric-coated tablets should not be crushed as this destroys the coating designed to protect the stomach lining from the medication's potentially irritating effects, ensuring the medication is released in the intestine.
Rationale for C: This statement is correct; enteric-coated medications are formulated to bypass the stomach and dissolve in the intestine, which can help minimize gastric side effects and irritation.
Rationale for D: It is common for anti-inflammatory medications like naproxen to take several weeks to reach full efficacy. This statement reflects a correct understanding of the medication's expected onset of action.