A nurse is completing a medical interview with a client who has elevated cholesterol levels and takes warfarin. The nurse should recognize that which of the following actions by the client can potentiate the effects of warfarin?

Choice A reason: Client report of a headache is not the nurse's priority to report to the provider. A headache is a common and mild side effect of vancomycin, which is an antibiotic used to treat serious infections. A headache may be caused by dehydration, stress, or other factors, and can be relieved by drinking fluids, resting, or taking analgesics.

Choice B reason: Audible inspiratory stridor is the nurse's priority to report to the provider. Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound that occurs when breathing in, and indicates a narrowing or obstruction of the airway. Stridor may be a sign of a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, to vancomycin, which can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis can also cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and shock. The nurse should stop the infusion, administer epinephrine, and monitor the client's vital signs.

Choice C reason: Client report of tinnitus is not the nurse's priority to report to the provider. Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, and may be a rare and serious side effect of vancomycin. Tinnitus may indicate damage to the inner ear, or ototoxicity, which can lead to hearing loss. The nurse should check the client's hearing and report any changes to the provider. The provider may adjust the dose or frequency of vancomycin, or switch to another antibiotic.

Choice D reason: Localized redness at the catheter insertion site is not the nurse's priority to report to the provider. Redness at the catheter insertion site may indicate irritation, inflammation, or infection of the skin or vein, and may be caused by the needle, the catheter, or the medication. The nurse should inspect the site, clean it with antiseptic, and apply a sterile dressing. The nurse should also monitor the site for signs of phlebitis, such as pain, swelling, warmth, or pus. The nurse may need to change the catheter or the infusion site if the redness persists or worsens.

Choice A reason: Giving the medication in the morning daily is a correct instruction, as it helps to prevent asthma attacks throughout the day and night. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks the inflammatory response and bronchoconstriction caused by leukotrienes. Montelukast has a long duration of action and can be given once a day, preferably in the evening or at bedtime. However, for children who have exercise-induced asthma, the medication can be given in the morning to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Choice B reason: Administering the granules mixed with 20 oz of water is not a correct instruction, as it may reduce the absorption and effectiveness of the medication. Montelukast granules should be administered within 15 minutes of opening the packet and can be mixed with a small amount of soft food, such as applesauce, mashed carrots, or ice cream. The granules should not be mixed with liquids, such as water, juice, or milk, as they may dissolve and lose their potency.

Choice C reason: Giving the medication at the onset of wheezing is not a correct instruction, as it may not provide immediate relief of the symptoms and may delay the use of a rescue inhaler. Montelukast is not a bronchodilator and does not work quickly to open the airways. Montelukast is a preventive medication that should be taken regularly to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. The child should use a short-acting beta-agonist, such as albuterol, for the quick relief of wheezing.

Choice D reason: Administering the medication 2 hr before exercise is not a correct instruction, as it may not prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm and may interfere with the daily dosing schedule. Montelukast should be taken once a day, preferably in the evening or at bedtime, to provide consistent protection against asthma triggers. However, for children who have exercise-induced asthma, the medication can be given in the morning to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. The child should also use a short-acting beta-agonist before exercise, as needed.