A nurse is preparing a client who has a small bowel obstruction for insertion of a nasogastric tube. Which of the following equipment should the nurse gather prior to the procedure?

Answer: B. Elevated skin patches

Rationale:

A. Constipation:
Constipation is not a typical adverse effect of cefazolin. Antibiotics generally cause gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea rather than constipation, so this is not a primary concern with cefazolin therapy.

B. Elevated skin patches:
Elevated skin patches may indicate an allergic reaction, such as hives or a rash, which can be a serious side effect of cefazolin. Allergic reactions to antibiotics can escalate quickly and may require immediate medical attention. Monitoring for and reporting any skin changes is important to prevent potential complications.

C. Ringing in the ears:
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is not commonly associated with cefazolin. This symptom is more frequently associated with certain other antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, but is not a primary concern with cefazolin use.

D. Depression:
Depression is not a known side effect of cefazolin. While mood changes may be seen with some medications, cefazolin’s primary side effects are related to hypersensitivity reactions and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Answer: A. Apply light pressure to the inner canthus just after instilling the eye drops.

Rationale:

A) Apply light pressure to the inner canthus just after instilling the eye drops.
Applying pressure to the inner canthus (the corner of the eye nearest the nose) helps occlude the nasolacrimal duct. This action reduces the systemic absorption of the medication by preventing it from draining into the nasal passages and subsequently into the systemic circulation, thus enhancing the local effect of the eye drops.

B) Wipe the eye from the inner to the outer canthus with a sterile saline-moistened cotton ball.
While this action may help remove excess medication or discharge, it does not minimize systemic absorption. Instead, wiping the eye could inadvertently spread the medication to other areas, increasing the chance of absorption rather than reducing it.

C) Administer the medication drops directly into the lower conjunctival sac of each eye.
While placing drops in the lower conjunctival sac is a standard practice for delivering ophthalmic medications, it does not directly influence systemic absorption. The main goal is to ensure adequate dosing in the eye, but systemic absorption can still occur if the drops drain into the nasolacrimal duct.

D) Wait 5 min after instillation before instilling the drops in the other eye.
Waiting between instillations is good practice to prevent dilution of the first dose and to allow for absorption. However, this action does not significantly impact systemic absorption. It focuses more on ensuring that the first dose is effective before administering a second dose.