A nurse is preparing a community health program for adults at risk for cardiovascular disease. Which of the following should the nurse include as a modifiable risk factor?

Choice A reason: Administer the Medications 5 Minutes Apart

Administering the medications 5 minutes apart is crucial when using multiple eye drops. This practice ensures that each medication has enough time to be absorbed without being washed out by the subsequent drop. This is particularly important for medications like timolol and pilocarpine, which are used to manage intraocular pressure in glaucoma.

Choice B reason: Hold Pressure on the Conjunctival Sac for 2 Minutes Following Application of Drops

Holding pressure on the conjunctival sac (punctal occlusion) for 2 minutes after applying eye drops can help reduce systemic absorption and increase the local effect of the medication. However, this instruction is not as critical as the timing between administering different eye drops.

Choice C reason: It Is Not Necessary to Remove Contact Lenses Before Administering Medications

This statement is incorrect. Contact lenses should be removed before administering eye drops to prevent contamination and ensure proper absorption of the medication. The lenses can be reinserted after a sufficient amount of time has passed, usually around 15 minutes.

Choice D reason: Administer the Medications by Touching the Tip of the Dropper to the Sclera of the Eye

This statement is incorrect. The tip of the dropper should never touch the eye or any other surface to avoid contamination. The correct method is to hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze out the prescribed number of drops into the conjunctival sac.

Choice A reason:

Chicken broth: Chicken broth is part of a clear liquid diet, which is typically recommended immediately after surgery to ensure the digestive system is not overburdened. While nutritious, it does not meet the criteria for a full liquid diet, which includes more substantial liquids.

Choice B reason:

Flavored gelatin: Flavored gelatin is also a component of a clear liquid diet. It is easy to digest and provides some hydration and minimal calories. However, it does not provide the nutritional value needed for a full liquid diet.

Choice C reason:

Cranberry juice: Cranberry juice is another item that fits within a clear liquid diet. It is hydrating and provides some vitamins but lacks the protein and calories necessary for a full liquid diet.

Choice D reason:

Skim milk: Skim milk is appropriate for a full liquid diet. It provides essential nutrients, including protein, calcium, and vitamins, which are necessary for recovery after surgery4. Full liquid diets are designed to be more nutritious than clear liquid diets and include items like milk, cream soups, and smooth dairy products.