A nurse is preparing to administer carbamazepine suspension 150 mg via NG tube every 6 hr. The amount available is 100 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer with each dose?

(Round the answer to the nearest tenth. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A rationale:

Temperature of 39°C (102.2°F) A temperature of 39°C (102.2°F) is elevated, but it is not directly related to a heart rate of 44/min. Elevated temperature can be caused by various factors, such as infection, and would not be an expected finding solely due to the heart rate.

Choice B rationale:

History of cigarette smoking. A history of cigarette smoking may be a risk factor for certain cardiovascular conditions, but it does not directly explain a heart rate of 44/min. The heart rate can be influenced by factors such as medications, cardiac conditions, and autonomic nervous system activity.

Choice D rationale:

Hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can cause various symptoms, including shakiness, confusion, and sweating, but it is not the primary cause of a heart rate of 44/min. Hypoglycemia is more likely to cause symptoms related to altered mental status and autonomic nervous system activation.

Choice C rationale:

Patient reports they feel that they are going to pass out. A heart rate of 44/min is significantly lower than the normal range for adults, which is typically between 60-100 beats per minute. Such a low heart rate, known as bradycardia, can lead to decreased blood flow to vital organs, including the brain. Feeling like they are going to pass out is a concerning symptom associated with bradycardia because it suggests inadequate cardiac output and perfusion. This finding should prompt immediate assessment and intervention to address the underlying cause of the slow heart rate.

Choice A rationale:

"Apply fundal pressure during contractions." - Applying fundal pressure during contractions is not appropriate during the latent stage of labor. Fundal pressure is typically used during the second stage of labor (active pushing phase) to assist with fetal descent. Using it during the latent stage can be harmful.

Choice B rationale:

"Encourage the client to soak in a hot bath." - Soaking in a hot bath is generally not recommended during labor, especially without specific indications. It is essential to maintain the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Encouraging the client to change positions or use comfort measures like relaxation techniques would be more appropriate.

Choice C rationale:

"Instruct the client to change positions frequently." - This is the correct answer. During the latent stage of labor, encouraging the client to change positions frequently can help promote comfort and optimize fetal positioning. Changing positions can reduce discomfort, enhance uterine contractions, and facilitate the progression of labor.

Choice D rationale:

"Tell the client to push during contractions." - Pushing during contractions is typically reserved for the second stage of labor when the cervix is fully dilated. In the latent stage, the cervix is not fully dilated, and pushing prematurely can be harmful and delay labor progress. It is essential to follow the appropriate guidelines for each stage of labor.