A nurse is planning to administer medications to a client. Which of the following information should the nurse use to identify the client? (Select all that apply.)

A. Add liquid to foods to thin consistency.: Thin liquids are actually the most difficult to swallow and increase the risk of aspiration. Foods should be thickened to a "nectar" or "honey" consistency as prescribed.

B. Tilt the client's head slightly backward.: This opens the airway. For safe swallowing, the client should use the "chin-tuck" method (tilting the head forward/down) to help close the trachea and open the esophagus.

C. Encourage socialization with others during meals.: Clients with dysphagia should focus entirely on chewing and swallowing to prevent aspiration; talking while eating increases risk.

D. Provide mouth care before the client eats.: Oral hygiene before meals stimulates the appetite and removes bacteria from the mouth. If a client does aspirate, they are less likely to develop pneumonia if their oral cavity is clean.

A. Store the oxygen cylinder wrench with the oxygen tank.: The wrench is necessary to open the oxygen tank in an emergency or when changing tanks. Keeping it with the tank ensures it is immediately available for the client or caregiver.

B. Take steroid medication in the morning.: Prednisone (a corticosteroid) can cause insomnia and restlessness. Taking it in the morning aligns with the body's natural circadian rhythm of cortisol production and helps prevent sleep disturbances.

C. Decrease the steroid dose each day.: The prescription states "40 mg PO daily for 5 days." The nurse should instruct the client to take the full dose as prescribed. While steroids are often tapered, the client should not self-taper unless specifically directed by the provider's prescription.

D. Take antibiotic medication with or without food.: Cephalexin can be taken without regard to meals. However, if the medication causes GI upset, taking it with food can help mitigate nausea.

E. Adjust the oxygen flow rate as needed to ease breathing.: Oxygen is considered a medication. The client must maintain the prescribed flow rate (3 L/min) and should never adjust it without a provider's order, as excessive oxygen can be harmful to some patients.

F. Ensure the oxygen delivery system is at least 8 feet from any heat source.: Oxygen supports combustion. To prevent fires, tanks and concentrators must be kept away from open flames, space heaters, candles, or gas stoves. Standard safety guidelines usually recommend 5 to 10 feet (8 feet is a safe middle ground).

G. Take antibiotics for 10 days.: The prescription specifically states "every 6 hr for 5 days." Taking medications for longer than prescribed is incorrect instruction.