A nurse is preparing to administer penicillin IM to an adult client.
Which of the following angles should the nurse use for injection into the client's ventrogluteal muscle?

Choice A rationale:

Metabolic alkalosis is incorrect because it would present with a high pH and high HCO3. This client’s pH is low, indicating acidosis, not alkalosis.

Choice B rationale:

Respiratory acidosis is correct. It is characterized by a low pH and high PaCO2, as seen in this client’s results. This condition occurs when the lungs can’t remove enough CO2, causing it to build up in the blood and lower the pH.

Choice C rationale:

Metabolic acidosis is incorrect because it would present with a low pH and low HCO3. This client’s HCO3 is normal.

Choice D rationale:

Respiratory alkalosis is incorrect because it would present with a high pH and low PaCO2. This client’s pH is low and PaCO2 is high.

Choice A rationale:

The list obtained from the client should include all medications the client is taking, regardless of who prescribed them. This includes over-the-counter medications and supplements.

Choice B rationale:

Providing a comprehensive list of medications for the client at the time of discharge is an important component of medication reconciliation. This helps to ensure the client understands what medications they should be taking, how to take them, and why they are taking them.

Choice C rationale:

The reconciliation process should be completed at each transition of care, not just when the client is first admitted to the hospital. This is to ensure that any changes in medication are accurately documented and communicated.

Choice D rationale:

A nurse should not write a verbal order in the medical record for medications the client was taking at home without confirmation from the provider. This could lead to errors in medication administration.