A nurse is preparing to administer an opioid analgesic IM to a client. The vial contains 2 mg of medication, but the client's prescription is for 1 mg. After administering the medication, which of the following actions should the nurse take when handling the remaining medication in the vial?

Choice A Reason:

Discontinuing supplements containing vitamin C 24 hr before the test is appropriate. This is not necessary for fecal occult blood testing. However, vitamin C supplements should be avoided before certain stool tests that use a chemical reaction involving guaiac.

Choice B Reason:

Placing a thick layer of stool on the specimen card is inappropriate. The client should apply a small amount of stool to the designated area on the specimen card. A thick layer is not required, and excess stool may interfere with the test.

Choice C Reason:

Urinating prior to collecting the stool specimen is appropriate. This instruction is important because it helps prevent contamination of the stool specimen with urine, which could potentially interfere with the accuracy of the test results.

Choice D Reason:

Refraining from consuming pork 7 days before the test is inappropriate. There is no need for the client to avoid consuming pork specifically for fecal occult blood testing. The instructions usually focus on dietary restrictions that could affect the presence of blood in the stool, such as avoiding red meat or certain medications.

Choice A Reason:

Reinforcing discharge teaching with the client's partner who speaks the languages of both the client and the nurse is not appropriate. While involving the client's partner may be helpful, it's essential to ensure that the information is accurately and comprehensively translated. Relying solely on the partner may not guarantee clear communication.

Choice B Reason:

Asking a nurse from another unit who speaks the same language as the client to reinforce the discharge teaching is inappropriate. While this option might be helpful if such a nurse is available, it may not always be practical to find a nurse who speaks the specific language required. Additionally, the nurse's expertise in the discharge instructions may vary.

Choice C Reason:

Requesting that a medical interpreter assist with translating the discharge teaching for the client is appropriate. Using a medical interpreter ensures accurate and clear communication, reducing the risk of misunderstandings. It promotes effective communication between the nurse and the client, ensuring that important information about post-discharge care is accurately conveyed.

Choice D Reason:

Using nonverbal communication with gestures to reinforce discharge teaching with the client is inappropriate. While nonverbal communication and gestures can be supplementary, relying solely on them may not convey detailed information accurately. Important details about medications, follow-up appointments, and self-care may be lost without verbal communication.