A nurse is collecting data from a client who is taking levodopa-carbidopa to treat Parkinson's disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse document as an adverse effect of this medication?

• WBC count 6,700/mm³ is unchanged from previous readings, remaining within normal limits, indicating no new or worsening infection or inflammatory response.
• Hemoglobin 12 g/dL represents a significant increase from the previous value of 7.8 g/dL, demonstrating successful red blood cell transfusion and improvement in oxygen-carrying capacity.
• Hematocrit 36% is also markedly improved from 24%, further confirming correction of anemia following transfusion.

• Blood pressure 112/74 mm Hg has increased from a low of 76/45 mm Hg, indicating improved circulatory status and perfusion following fluid resuscitation and transfusion.
• Heart rate 95/min is a decrease from previous tachycardic values (121/min), suggesting stabilization of hemodynamics and resolution of compensatory response to anemia and hypotension.
• Oxygen saturation 100% on 2 L/min O₂ via nasal cannula confirms adequate oxygenation, demonstrating improved hemoglobin levels and effective oxygen delivery.

• Respiratory: bilateral breath sounds clear confirms stable respiratory function, showing no complications such as fluid overload or transfusion-related lung injury.

A. "Droplet precautions require that I wear a gown and gloves when providing client care." Droplet precautions require wearing a surgical mask when within three feet of the client, but gowns and gloves are only needed if direct contact with secretions is expected. Incorrect PPE use can lead to inadequate protection or unnecessary resource use. Understanding specific precaution types ensures proper infection control.
B. "Following a blood spill, I should use a bleach solution with a ratio of 1 to 20." Blood spills should be cleaned using a 1:10 bleach solution, not 1:20, to ensure effective decontamination. A stronger bleach concentration eliminates bloodborne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis B. The solution should be applied to the spill and left to sit before wiping. Using an incorrect dilution reduces disinfection effectiveness.
C. "Soiled dressings should be placed in a biohazard trash receptacle." Soiled dressings contain bodily fluids and potential pathogens, so they must be disposed of in a biohazard waste container. Regular trash does not provide adequate containment and increases the risk of contamination. Proper disposal protects healthcare workers and the environment from infection. Adhering to these protocols ensures compliance with infection control standards.
D. "For a client who has Clostridium difficile, I will cleanse my hands with an alcohol-based rub." Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are ineffective against Clostridium difficile spores, requiring handwashing with soap and water. The mechanical action of scrubbing is necessary to remove spores from the hands. Proper hand hygiene reduces transmission risks in healthcare settings. Infection control protocols emphasize soap and water for C. difficile prevention.