A nurse is preparing to administer enoxaparin to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Choice A reason:

Naproxen is classified as a pregnancy category B medication during the first and second trimesters but becomes category D in the third trimester due to potential risks to the fetus. It is generally advised to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen during pregnancy unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.

Choice B reason:

Aspirin is not considered safe during pregnancy, especially in higher doses. It is classified as category D in the third trimester due to risks such as premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and potential bleeding complications. Low-dose aspirin may be prescribed in specific cases, but it is not generally recommended as an over-the-counter option for pregnant women.

Choice C reason:

Ibuprofen, like naproxen, is an NSAID and is classified as category B during the first and second trimesters but category D in the third trimester. It is generally advised to avoid ibuprofen during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.

Choice D reason:

Acetaminophen is classified as a pregnancy category B medication and is considered safe for use during all trimesters of pregnancy. It is the preferred over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic for pregnant women due to its safety profile. Acetaminophen does not carry the same risks as NSAIDs and is widely used to manage pain and fever during pregnancy.

Choice A reason:

Oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range (typically 95-100%) and does not indicate a need to withhold atenolol. Atenolol is a beta-blocker used to manage hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions, and normal oxygen saturation levels do not contraindicate its use.

Choice B reason:

A respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute is also within the normal range for adults (12-20 breaths per minute) and does not provide a reason to withhold atenolol. Respiratory rate is not directly affected by atenolol, and normal respiratory function supports the safe administration of the medication.

Choice C reason:

A blood pressure reading of 160/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which is one of the conditions atenolol is prescribed to treat. Therefore, this finding would not prompt the nurse to withhold the medication. Atenolol helps to lower blood pressure by reducing the heart rate and the force of contraction.

Choice D reason:

A heart rate of 46 beats per minute is below the normal resting heart rate range for adults (60-100 beats per minute) and indicates bradycardia. Atenolol can further lower the heart rate, potentially leading to severe bradycardia, which can be dangerous. Therefore, a low heart rate is a contraindication for administering atenolol, and the nurse should withhold the medication and consult with the healthcare provider.