A nurse is preparing to administer vancomycin 50 mg PO daily divided into four equal doses. The amount available is vancomycin 125 mg capsules. How many capsules should the nurse administer with each dose?

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

Choice A reason: Weigh the client daily is important because chlorpromazine can cause weight gain as a side effect. Regular monitoring of the client’s weight helps in managing and mitigating this potential adverse effect.

Choice B reason: Monitor the client for signs of bleeding is not typically necessary for clients taking chlorpromazine. This medication does not commonly cause bleeding issues. Monitoring for bleeding would be more relevant for clients on anticoagulants or medications that affect platelet function.

Choice C reason: Monitor the client’s respirations every 4 hours is not specifically required for clients on chlorpromazine. While respiratory depression can be a concern with some medications, it is not a common side effect of chlorpromazine.

Choice D reason: Administer an antacid with the medication to decrease nausea is not recommended. Antacids can interfere with the absorption of chlorpromazine, reducing its effectiveness. If the client experiences nausea, other antiemetic strategies should be considered.

Choice A reason: A client who had a stroke and is to be admitted

Assigning a client who had a stroke and is to be admitted might not be the best choice for an RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. Stroke patients often require specialized neurological assessments and interventions that the RN might not be familiar with. Additionally, the initial admission process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring familiarity with the specific protocols and procedures of the medical-surgical unit.

Choice B reason: A client who is one-day postoperative following a total abdominal hysterectomy

This is the most appropriate assignment for the RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. The RN is likely to be familiar with postoperative care, especially related to abdominal surgeries, given their experience in the maternal-newborn unit. Postoperative care involves monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and ensuring proper wound care, all of which are within the RN’s skill set. This familiarity can help ensure the client receives competent and safe care.

Choice C reason: A client who has acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis can be a complex condition requiring specialized knowledge of gastrointestinal issues and potential complications such as fluid and electrolyte imbalances, respiratory issues, and severe pain management. The RN from the maternal-newborn unit may not have the specific expertise needed to manage these complexities effectively.

Choice D reason: A client who has terminal end-stage renal disease

Caring for a client with terminal end-stage renal disease involves managing complex chronic conditions, including fluid balance, electrolyte management, and possibly dialysis. This requires specialized knowledge and skills that the RN from the maternal-newborn unit might not possess. Additionally, end-of-life care requires a specific set of competencies and experience that might not be within the RN’s usual scope of practice.