A nurse is preparing to assist the provider with a thoracentesis for a client who has a left pleural effusion. Which of the following interventions is the priority for the nurse?

The correct answer is Choice B.

Choice A rationale: This choice suggests that the provider will prescribe a different medication regimen. However, this is not necessarily the case. Rifampin is a first-line medication for tuberculosis and its side effects, including the discoloration of body fluids, are well-known and expected. Therefore, it is unlikely that the provider would change the medication regimen solely based on this side effect.

Choice B rationale: This is the correct answer. Rifampin, an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis, can cause a harmless red-orange discoloration of body fluids, including urine, sweat, tears, and saliva. This is an expected side effect of the medication and does not indicate any harm or toxicity. It is important for the nurse to reassure the client that this is a normal occurrence and does not require any changes to the medication regimen.

Choice C rationale: This choice suggests that the red-orange discoloration of the client’s saliva may indicate possible medication toxicity. However, this is not accurate. While rifampin can have serious side effects, including liver damage and severe gastrointestinal upset, the discoloration of body fluids is not a sign of toxicity. It is a harmless side effect of the medication.

Choice D rationale: This choice suggests that the client will need to increase her fluid intake to resolve the problem. However, increasing fluid intake will not change the discoloration caused by rifampin. The discoloration is a result of the medication itself and is not influenced by the client’s hydration status.

An ileostomy is a surgical opening in the abdomen that connects the end of the small intestine (ileum) to a pouch or bag on the outside of the body. The ileostomy bypasses the large intestine (colon) and rectum, which normally absorb water and form solid stools. Therefore, the client should expect their stools to be loose and watery. The client should empty their bag several times a day, not when it is full, to prevent leakage and skin irritation. The client should avoid laxatives, which can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The client should also avoid high-fiber foods, which can cause blockage or irritation of the ileostomy.