A nurse is preparing to administer cefadroxil oral suspension 15 mg/kg PO to a client who weighs 98 lb. Available is cefadroxil 250 mg/5 mL. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

The correct answer is B.

Choice A reason: Using a stiff toothbrush to clean the client’s teeth is not recommended. A stiff toothbrush can cause damage to the gums and teeth, especially in clients who may have sensitive oral tissues due to medications or medical treatments.

Choice B reason: Turning the client on his side before starting oral care is the most appropriate action. This is to prevent aspiration, especially in immobile clients who may have difficulty swallowing or clearing their throat.

Choice C reason: Using the thumb and index finger to keep the client’s mouth open is not recommended. This could be uncomfortable or even harmful for the client. Instead, a padded tongue blade could be used if necessary, but only with extreme caution and the client’s comfort in mind.

Choice D reason: Applying petroleum jelly to the client’s lips after oral care is also a good practice. This helps to prevent dryness and cracking of the lips, which can be a common problem for hospitalized patients, especially those who are dehydrated or receiving oxygen therapy. However, when compared to choice B, it is not as critical in terms of immediate safety concerns.

Choice C rationale:

Respite care provides support for a client's caregiver. Respite care offers temporary relief or rest for caregivers who are taking care of individuals with chronic illness, disabilities, or those approaching the end of life. It allows caregivers to have a break from their responsibilities, reducing caregiver burnout and stress. This type of support helps maintain the caregiver's physical and emotional well-being, which, in turn, benefits the client's overall care.

Choice A rationale:

Postmortem care is the care provided to a deceased client, and it does not directly support the caregiver of a living client. It is essential for ensuring respectful and appropriate handling of the deceased individual but does not provide support to caregivers.

Choice B rationale:

Home care involves healthcare services delivered in the client's home, which can be beneficial for the client's care but does not specifically address the needs of the caregiver. While it may indirectly ease the caregiver's responsibilities, it is not a service designed to support caregivers directly.

Choice D rationale:

Restorative care focuses on rehabilitation and restoring the client's health and independence, which primarily benefits the client rather than the caregiver. It is not a service aimed at supporting caregivers in the same way that respite care does.