A nurse is preparing to administer an oral opioid analgesic to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when handling an unused portion of the medication after administration?

Choice A rationale:

The walking gait test is used to assess a client's walking pattern and balance, particularly for identifying abnormalities in gait. However, it doesn't specifically evaluate sensory functions, making it an inappropriate choice for this scenario.

Choice B rationale:

The plantar reflex test, also known as the Babinski reflex test, assesses the neurological integrity of the corticospinal tract. It involves stimulating the sole of the foot to elicit specific reflex movements. While this test is important in assessing neurological function, it doesn't directly evaluate sensory functions as requested in the question.

Choice C rationale:

The finger-to-nose test is a part of the neurological examination used to assess a client's coordination and proprioception. In this test, the client is asked to touch their nose with their index finger while alternating between eyes closed and eyes open. This evaluates their ability to sense the position of their limbs in space (proprioception) and their coordination. It directly addresses the focus of the question, making it the correct choice.

Choice D rationale:

The Romberg test evaluates a client's balance and proprioception. It involves having the client stand with their feet together and their eyes closed to assess their ability to maintain balance without visual input. While this test is relevant to sensory functions, it primarily assesses proprioception and balance rather than coordination, which the question is specifically targeting.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to remain supine for 10 minutes after inserting a vaginal suppository helps ensure proper absorption of the medication. This position allows the suppository to stay in contact with the vaginal mucosa, promoting optimal drug absorption. This is an essential nursing action to maximize the therapeutic effect of the medication.

Choice B rationale:

Applying sterile gloves after cleansing the perineal area is not necessary when administering a vaginal suppository. While maintaining cleanliness is important, the use of sterile gloves is not typically required for this procedure. Clean, non-sterile gloves are sufficient to maintain aseptic technique during the administration.

Choice C rationale:

Inserting the suppository 3 to 4 cm (1 to 1.5 in) into the vagina is an appropriate depth for vaginal suppository insertion. The nurse should follow this guideline to ensure that the medication reaches the appropriate location within the vaginal canal, optimizing absorption and effectiveness.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the client in the lateral semi-prone recumbent position is not a standard position for administering a vaginal suppository. The suppository is typically administered with the client lying on their back (supine) to facilitate insertion and medication absorption. Placing the client in the position described would not provide the optimal angle for insertion.