A nurse is preparing to administer amoxicillin 2 g/day PO divided into two doses. The amount available is amoxicillin 500 mg tablets.

How many tablets should the nurse administer with each dose? (Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A Reason:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. While strict bed rest can increase the risk of UTIs due to factors like catheter use and reduced mobility, the use of an incentive spirometer does not directly prevent UTIs. Instead, preventing UTIs involves maintaining good hygiene, ensuring adequate fluid intake, and, if necessary, using catheters properly.

Choice B Reason:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs. This can occur due to prolonged immobility, such as strict bed rest after surgery. Preventing DVT involves measures like using compression stockings, administering anticoagulant medications, and encouraging leg exercises. An incentive spirometer, which is used to improve lung function, does not directly prevent DVT.

Choice C Reason:

Constipation is a common issue for patients on bed rest due to reduced physical activity and changes in diet. Preventing constipation involves ensuring adequate hydration, providing a high-fiber diet, and encouraging as much physical activity as possible. The use of an incentive spirometer, which focuses on respiratory function, does not directly address constipation.

Choice D Reason:

Atelectasis is a condition where the alveoli in the lungs collapse, leading to reduced or absent breath sounds in the affected areas. This is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients on strict bed rest, due to shallow breathing and reduced lung expansion. The use of an incentive spirometer encourages deep breathing and helps to keep the alveoli open, thereby preventing atelectasis. This is why the incentive spirometer is an essential tool for postoperative respiratory care.

Choice A reason: Starting chest compressions is the priority intervention for a client who is unresponsive, not breathing, and without a pulse. This situation indicates cardiac arrest, and immediate chest compressions are crucial to maintain circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs. Early initiation of chest compressions improves the chances of survival and neurological outcomes.

Choice B reason: Obtaining a central line is not an immediate priority in the context of cardiac arrest. While central lines are important for administering medications and fluids, the first step in resuscitation is to establish effective chest compressions. Central line placement can be considered after initial resuscitation efforts are underway.

Choice C reason: Completing a comprehensive assessment is important, but it is not the immediate priority in a cardiac arrest situation. The primary focus should be on initiating chest compressions and basic life support measures. A detailed assessment can be performed once the client is stabilized.

Choice D reason: Providing rescue breathing is part of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but it should follow the initiation of chest compressions. Current guidelines emphasize the importance of starting chest compressions immediately and then integrating rescue breaths. Effective chest compressions are the foundation of CPR.