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?
Discard the vial with the remaining medication in the sharp container.
Have another nurse witness the disposal of the remaining medication.
Draw up the remaining 1 mg in a syringe and label it with the contents, date, and time.
Store the vial in the client's medication drawer for future use.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Discarding the vial with the remaining medication in the sharp container is inappropriate. This would result in unnecessary waste of the medication and could lead to increased healthcare costs.
Choice B Reason:
Having another nurse witness the disposal of the remaining medication is inappropriate. Witnessing the disposal is typically required for controlled substances, but in this situation, it's more appropriate to use the remaining medication with appropriate documentation.
Choice C Reason:
Drawing up the remaining 1 mg in a syringe and label it with the contents, date, and time is appropriate. This approach minimizes medication wastage and allows for appropriate documentation of the extra dose drawn up. However, it is crucial to label the syringe clearly with the contents, date, and time to avoid any potential errors or confusion. This labeled syringe can then be used for subsequent doses, as long as it remains within the medication's expiration period and adheres to institutional policies.
Choice D Reason:
Storing the vial in the client's medication drawer for future use is inappropriate. Keeping the vial for future use without appropriate documentation is not recommended, as it may lead to medication errors or confusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Pressing on the skin barrier for about 30 seconds ensures that it adheres properly to the skin, which helps secure the ostomy appliance and prevents leakage.
Choice B Reason:
Moisturizing soap is not recommended for cleaning around the stoma, as it can leave a residue that interferes with the appliance's adhesion. Mild soap without moisturizers or just water should be used.
Choice C Reason:
Applying talc powder around the stoma can prevent the appliance from adhering properly, leading to leakage. It is not recommended for ostomy care.
Choice D Reason:
The skin barrier should be cut to fit closely around the stoma, leaving no more than a 1/8 inch gap, not 1/2 inch. A larger opening may cause skin irritation or leakage.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
To an insurance agency in regard to a life insurance policy . This situation is incorrect. Generally, disclosure of health information to an insurance agency requires the client's written consent.
Choice B Reason:
To a medical interpreter service on behalf of a client. This situation is correct. In healthcare settings, it is generally acceptable to share limited health information with a medical interpreter service to facilitate communication with the client, especially if the client has limited proficiency in the primary language spoken in the healthcare setting. The interpreter is bound by confidentiality rules similar to healthcare providers.
Choice C Reason:
To a family member when the client is not available. This situation is incorrect. Disclosing health information to a family member typically requires the client's consent unless there are specific circumstances, such as emergencies, where the healthcare provider may need to act in the best interest of the client.
Choice D Reason:
To an employer for a pre-employment screening. This situation is incorrect. Disclosing health information to an employer typically requires the client's written consent. Employment-related health information is usually protected by privacy laws.
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