A nurse is planning teaching for a client who has a new diagnosis of HIV. Which of the following information should the nurse include about preventing the spread of the infection?

Rationale:

• Obtain daily weights: Daily weights are used to monitor fluid balance in conditions like preeclampsia or heart failure. In this acute preterm labor scenario, the priority is monitoring fetal well-being and uterine activity, not long-term fluid shifts.

• Administer terbutaline: Terbutaline is a tocolytic medication used to suppress preterm labor by relaxing uterine smooth muscle. Given the client’s regular, strong contractions at 33 weeks with cervical changes, terbutaline may be prescribed to delay labor and allow fetal maturation.

• Administer oxytocin: Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and is used to induce or augment labor. In a client experiencing preterm labor at 33 weeks, oxytocin is contraindicated because it could worsen labor progression and increase risk of preterm birth.

• Administer betamethasone: Betamethasone is a corticosteroid administered to accelerate fetal lung maturity when preterm birth is imminent. Since the client is 33 weeks gestation and showing signs of preterm labor, administration is anticipated to reduce neonatal respiratory complications.

• Maintain modified bed rest with bathroom privileges: Modified bed rest can help reduce uterine stimulation, conserve energy, and support uteroplacental perfusion in clients experiencing preterm labor. Limiting physical activity is a standard intervention for preterm labor management.

A. "This medication can cause nausea and drowsiness.": Gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, and central nervous system effects such as drowsiness or mild tremor are common early adverse effects of lithium. Clients should be monitored for symptom severity and reassured that these effects often diminish over time.

B. "You will be placed on a low-sodium diet while taking this medication": Lithium excretion is highly dependent on sodium levels; however, clients are advised to maintain a consistent, adequate sodium intake rather than restricting sodium. A low-sodium diet can increase lithium retention and risk toxicity.

C. "It will take at least a week before this medication reaches a therapeutic level.": Lithium requires several days to reach a steady-state concentration in the blood. Clients and caregivers should understand that therapeutic effects on mood stabilization may not be immediate, and monitoring serum levels is necessary.

D. "This medication can cause weight gain.": Weight gain is a recognized long-term adverse effect of lithium therapy, likely related to metabolic changes and fluid retention. Clients should be counseled on healthy diet and activity to help mitigate this effect.

E. "Blurred vision is an expected adverse effect of this medication": Blurred vision is not an expected or common side effect of lithium. If it occurs, it may indicate toxicity or another ophthalmologic issue, requiring immediate evaluation.