A nurse is collecting data from a client who has recently stopped smoking.
Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as a manifestation of acute nicotine withdrawal?

Clean the cannula prongs daily.

This is because the nasal cannula can become contaminated with bacteria and mucus, which can cause infection and irritation of the nasal mucosa. Cleaning the cannula prongs daily with soap and water can prevent these complications.

Choice A is wrong because humidifiers can help moisten the dry oxygen and prevent nasal dryness and bleeding. Humidifiers should be used for oxygen flow rates higher than 4 L/min.

Choice B is wrong because the cannula prongs should be positioned curving downward in the nose, not upward. This allows for better alignment with the natural direction of airflow and reduces the risk of dislodgement.

Choice D is wrong because keeping the oxygen tubing off the floor is not a specific action for nasal cannula use. It is a general safety measure to prevent tripping and contamination of the tubing.

Keep your environment well ventilated. This can help reduce nausea and vomiting by eliminating odors that might trigger them.

Some additional explanations are:

Choice B is wrong because eating three large meals each day can increase nausea and vomiting by overloading the stomach. It is better to eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy, greasy, or strong-smelling foods.

Choice C is wrong because restricting intake of high-carbohydrate foods can lead to ketosis, which can worsen nausea and vomiting. High-carbohydrate foods can also help settle the stomach and provide energy.

Choice D is wrong because brushing your teeth immediately after eating can stimulate the gag reflex and cause nausea and vomiting. It is better to rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after eating and brush your teeth at least an hour later.

Normal ranges for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are:

• Nausea and vomiting usually start around 6 weeks of gestation and peak around 9 weeks. They usually subside by 16 to 20 weeks, but some women may experience them throughout pregnancy.
• Nausea and vomiting are considered mild if they do not interfere with daily activities or nutrition. They are considered moderate if they cause some difficulty with daily activities or nutrition. They are considered severe if they prevent adequate intake of fluids and nutrients, cause weight loss, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or ketonuria.
• Nausea and vomiting that are severe or persist beyond 20 weeks of gestation may indicate a complication such as hyperemesis gravidarum, molar pregnancy, multiple gestation, or infection.